2008 BMW M5 recalls and problems

The 2008 BMW M5 has 2 safety recalls and 6 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
6
Crashes / fires
1 / 2
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2008 BMW M5 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2008 BMW M5 recalls

Recall 13V-407: Exterior Lighting

Reported Sep 11, 2013 · 134,100 vehicles affected · BMW of North America, LLC

Problem: 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 permanent loss of functionality of one or more rear lamp functions (tail, brake, turn-signal, reverse).

Risk: Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.

Recall 12V-126: Electrical System

Reported Mar 26, 2012 · 367,682 vehicles affected · BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC

Problem: 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. As it loosens, an increase in electrical resistance at this cable connection is possible and could cause the cable connection to overheat.

Risk: Overheating could lead to a fire, even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.

Fix: 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 customer relations and services at 1-800-525-7417.

2008 BMW M5 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System2
Engine2
Air Bags1
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility1
Power Train1
Seats1
Exterior Lighting1
Service Brakes1
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)1
Steering1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 70,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2008 BMW M5 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · at 45,000 miles · reported Apr 26, 2021
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. The contact stated people outside of the vehicle began to scream to him that there was fire coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact parked, opened the hood and saw fire in the engine compartment. The fire department was called and extinguished the fire. A fire department report was filed. No one was injured and no medical treatment was needed.…
Electrical System · at 80,000 miles · reported Sep 27, 2019
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.
Air Bags · at 70,000 miles · reported Oct 6, 2014
On sept 25, 2014, I was driving my 2008 bmw m5 and turning into a parking lot when I was hit from the rear, shoved on top and over a median and into another vehicle. My vehicle was struck from the rear and then struck again from the front. I do not know how fast the driver that hit me was going, however, none of my airbags in my vehicle were deployed. I AM unable to determine the exact characteristics in which each airbag would be deployed and I requesting the NHTSA to perform that review.

Other BMW M5 years

Compare all BMW M5 years · All BMW models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2008 BMW M5 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2008 BMW M5: 13V-407 (exterior lighting), 12V-126 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2008 BMW M5?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (2 reports), followed by engine (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 70,000 miles.

Are BMW recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.