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2016 BMW M5 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jul 4, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2016 BMW M5 Report

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 M5's reliability is rated 'Average', signaling potential for issues beyond routine maintenance.
  • A critical air bag recall (16V914000) requires verification of completion; this impacts occupant safety.
  • Three recalls were issued, including one for child seat anchors (15V718000), alongside 121 TSBs, indicating a history of technical advisories.
  • Despite no reported consumer complaints, the high TSB count suggests underlying technical matters that may require attention.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 BMW M5

The 2016 BMW M5 stands as a potent performance sedan, blending everyday usability with track-day capability. Under the hood, its 4.4-liter V8 engine delivers robust power, channeled through a rear-wheel-drive system. However, as a used proposition, potential buyers must navigate a landscape marked by an 'Average' reliability assessment and a notable number of TSBs. While consumer complaints are absent, three recalls, including a critical one for the air bags, and 121 TSBs suggest a need for diligent inspection and awareness of potential ownership costs.

Critical Failure Risk

The critical air bag recall (16V914000) addresses potentially non-igniting side air bag initiators. While this was a recall item, ongoing issues or related components could still arise, impacting occupant safety.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
16
MPG
City
14
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

0.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a powerful, driver-focused sedan with a strong performance pedigree.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 BMW M5 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 BMW M5.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S7)
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
16

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Air Bag System Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Turbocharger System Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $250 - $400

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 BMW M5 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 BMW M5 is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 BMW M5 for daily use?▾

EPA combined economy is 16 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 BMW M5?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 BMW M5 is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 BMW M5?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2016 BMW M5?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 4.4.

What transmission does the 2016 BMW M5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 BMW M5, transmission is Automatic (AM-S7). The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2016 M5 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 BMW M5?▾

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What body style is the 2016 BMW M5?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 BMW M5, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 BMW M5 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 BMW M5, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S7).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 BMW M5?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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