2021 BMW M5
Only 2 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 2 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 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Car catch on fire and explode it with 2 ocupantes inside
NHTSA ODI report, 20240624
1 of 2 total reports mentions: fuel/propulsion system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Car catch on fire and explode it with 2 ocupantes inside
NHTSA ODI report, 20240624
1 of 2 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
THE REVERSE BACKUP LIGHTS AND CAMERA IMAGE IS SO DIM AND LIMITED AS BE UNUSABLE AND VERY UNSAFE WHEN BACKING UP AT NIGHT IN DARKNESS. DEALER SERVICE COULD NOT FIX AS DESIGNED IN! I BELIEVE SAME SYSTEM USED ON ALL 2021 SERIES 5 CARS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210101
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Car catch on fire and explode it with 2 ocupantes inside
NHTSA ODI report, 20240624
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X3 sDrive 30i, X3 xDrive 30i, X3M 40i, X3 xDrive 30e, X4 xDrive 30i, X4M 40i, 530i, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 550e, 550e xDrive, and 550e iPerformance vehicles.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, program the rearview camera with updated software. The recall began November 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Campaign 20V598000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 BMW M5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V598000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2021 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 2021 BMW M5?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 BMW M5 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.