BMW M5 (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 466 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
466
Avg Mileage
84,560 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2006 BMW M5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 18 years old, 89% of BMW M5s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 466 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 84,560 miles.
How does the 2006 BMW M5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 BMW M5 has 84,560 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a BMW M5?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 85%. The 2006 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2006 BMW M5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW M5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100% | 43 | 45,385 mi |
| 2020 | 100% | 35 | 34,728 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 255 | 39,872 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 50 | 45,133 mi |
| 2017 | 100% | 39 | 58,281 mi |
| 2016 | 94% | 1,332 | 59,490 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 1,111 | 60,765 mi |
| 2014 | 94% | 1,304 | 62,382 mi |
| 2013 | 91% | 1,310 | 66,323 mi |
| 2012 | 95% | 815 | 76,211 mi |
| 2011 | 95% | 219 | 76,893 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 35 | 77,493 mi |
| 2009 | 97% | 30 | 74,096 mi |
| 2008 | 95% | 229 | 81,787 mi |
| 2007 | 95% | 467 | 83,923 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 466 | 84,560 mi |
| 2005 | 91% | 597 | 92,623 mi |
| 2003 | 94% | 62 | 121,472 mi |
| 2002 | 90% | 272 | 119,488 mi |
| 2001 | 90% | 435 | 117,951 mi |
| 2000 | 85% | 359 | 125,310 mi |
| 1999 | 89% | 229 | 124,156 mi |
| 1995 | 100% | 44 | 125,572 mi |
| 1994 | 90% | 50 | 115,651 mi |
| 1993 | 90% | 62 | 127,582 mi |
| 1992 | 92% | 48 | 150,004 mi |
| 1991 | 91% | 46 | 110,152 mi |
Checking a specific BMW M5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 BMW M5
The 2006 BMW M5 is a premium performance with a 4999cc petrol engine. 466 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 9% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 84,560 miles at 18 years old, BMW M5 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2006 BMW M5 Fuel Costs
The 4999cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2006 BMW M5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 89% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW M5 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW M5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 BMW M5
At 18 years old, the BMW M5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 95%.
Alternatives to the 2006 BMW M5
The BMW M5 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW X5 (2005) 77% pass rate (-12%) from 11,188 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (-13%) from 8,352 tests
- ROVER 75 (2004) 69% pass rate (-20%) from 4,012 tests
- MERCEDES ML (2006) 80% pass rate (-9%) from 3,946 tests