2008 BMW M5
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 6
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2008
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2008: 6 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 0 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 0 |
| 1993 | 0 |
| 1994 | 0 |
| 1995 | 0 |
| 2000 | 4 |
| 2001 | 4 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 3 |
| 2006 | 38 |
| 2007 | 6 |
| 2008 | 6 |
| 2009 | 0 |
| 2010 | 1 |
| 2013 | 10 |
| 2014 | 2 |
| 2015 | 3 |
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2018 | 6 |
| 2019 | 8 |
| 2020 | 2 |
| 2021 | 3 |
| 2022 | 1 |
| 2025 | 1 |
| 2026 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
2 of 6 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owned a 2008 BMW M5. The contact stated while attempting to parallel park, the vehicle was shifted to reverse and a loud pop noise was heard as flames was seen coming from underneath the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-04-26
Electrical system
2 of 6 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
All wires leading into the headlights have deteriorated and are bare. It keeps shorting out the lights and seems to be a major fire hazard. This is a garage kept car with 80K miles. Appears many many others have the same problem. Please help.
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-09-27
Also filed under Exterior lighting
The sunroof drains of my vehicle overfill or clog causing water to leak in the trunk and wheel well. The cars wheel well holds the cars battery, rdc, and pdc modules.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-07-08
Steering
1 of 6 total reports mentions: steering.
Service brakes
1 of 6 total reports mentions: service brakes.
Seats
1 of 6 total reports mentions: seats.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2012-04-30Electrical system12V126000 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…
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. Owners may contact BMW…
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R
2014-01-02Exterior lighting13V407000 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…
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.
Buy-smart checklist
2008 BMW M5 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Steering: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 12V126000 · Electrical system
- Recall 13V407000 · Exterior lighting
FAQ
- Is the 2008 BMW M5 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2008 BMW M5?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2008 BMW M5 have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.