2018 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 PER YEAR
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 | 1 |
| 2021 | 2 |
| 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.
3 of 6 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The coolant tank on my 2018 M5 failed causing a coolant leak. This is a highly documented problem on the forums and mine needed replacement at 22k miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240426
2 of 6 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
This is for the front passenger seat only.The idrive system will give an error for the passenger restraint system and will mention there is a seat belt issue and turn off the airbag. This is intermittent and will happen with or without a passenger.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240312
1 of 6 total reports mentions: structure.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: service brakes.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: seats.
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW M5 vehicles. In certain driving conditions, the engine control unit software may cause the fuel pump to stop.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the engine control unit software, free of charge. The recall began on June 25, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Campaign 18V323000 — check if this car was fixed
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 BMW M5 vehicles.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will secure the in-tank fuel line to keep the fuel line from contacting the fuel level sensor, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 2018.
Campaign 18V473000 — check if this car was fixed
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i,...
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the back-up camera software, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce at 1-877-877-3735.
Campaign 19V684000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 BMW M5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 18V323000 (electrical system, fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 18V473000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 19V684000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2018 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 2018 BMW M5?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 BMW M5 have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.