Most common 2008 BMW M5 problems
Share of the 6 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
BMW M5 complaints by model year
Best M5 years: 2010, 2016. Years to avoid: 2006. Compare all years →
2008 BMW M5 recalls (2)
Exterior lighting › Tail lights
BMW is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 528i, 535i, 550i, and M5 passenger cars manufactured from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2009. Over time, increased resistance at the taillight electrical contact points may cause damage to the ground terminal and housing of the connector resulting in an intermittent or…
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear lamp bulb carriers free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Electrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery › Cables
BMW is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 5-series, model year 2004-2010 6-series, model year 2006-2010 m5, and model year 2007-2010 m6 vehicles. The insulated bulkhead connector for the positive battery cable May have been incorrectly attached to the trunk floor panel, which can lead to a loosening of the bolt connection.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the battery bolt cable connection as necessary, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 30, 2012.
2008 BMW M5 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L 10-cyl | 6-speed manual | RWD | 11 / 17 / 13 |
| 5.0L 10-cyl | 7-speed automatic | RWD | 11 / 17 / 13 |
EPA ratings. Class: Midsize car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2008 BMW M5 a good car?
Based on 6 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2008 M5 rates few complaints: about as many complaints as a typical year of the M5 at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 BMW M5?
The electrical system — 2 complaints, 33% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the engine & cooling (2) and air bags (1).
How many recalls does the 2008 BMW M5 have?
There are 2 recalls for the 2008 BMW M5, the most recent from September 11, 2013 (tail lights). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the BMW M5?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2010 and 2016. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2006. See the full BMW M5 years comparison.
At what mileage do 2008 BMW M5 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 70,000 miles; 33% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.