The first time I heard an S85 at full scream—8,250 RPM of raw, untamed V10 fury—I felt it as much as I heard it. It wasn’t just noise; it was a symphony, a mechanical war cry that demanded attention. At that moment, I knew I had to own one. Just listen to this.
https://youtube.com/shorts/RaaQfBziaTE?feature=shared
And then reality hit.
The late-night parts searches. The paranoia over rod bearings. The sheer unpredictability of owning a BMW M car with an engine that was both a technical marvel and a financial landmine. This isn’t just a car—it’s a commitment, an all-consuming passion that demands as much as it gives.
So, if you’re thinking about buying an E60 M5 or an E63/E64 M6, or if you’ve already taken the plunge and are starting to wonder, What have I gotten myself into?—I get it. I’ve been there. And I’m here to tell you exactly what it’s like to live with BMW’s legendary, infuriating, and utterly intoxicating V10.
Here’s the raw truth—why I love the S85, why it drives me insane, and why, despite it all, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. In 2025, with endless information, online support, and easy access to parts and DIY guides, owning one is far less stressful than it was years ago.
Why I Love the S85 (And Always Will)
There’s a reason why M enthusiasts—myself included—obsess over the S85. BMW didn’t just build an engine; they created a masterpiece.
This isn’t just any V10—it’s the only one BMW ever put in a production car. Inspired by their early 2000s F1 program, the S85 is packed with technology that was ahead of its time—individual throttle bodies, high-revving internals, and exotic materials that make it feel more like a race engine than something you’d find in a luxury sedan. It’s the result of engineers who weren’t afraid to push boundaries, and it shows in every aspect of the driving experience.
500 horsepower at 7,750 RPM. An 8,250 RPM redline. In a four-door sedan. That’s madness. But it’s the kind of madness that keeps me coming back. The way the S85 screams past 6,000 RPM is nothing short of intoxicating—you don’t just drive this engine, you experience it.
And the sound? Absolutely legendary. The S85 doesn’t just make noise—it sings. A raw, high-pitched wail mixed with a deep, aggressive growl that turns every tunnel into a symphony. Cold starts will shake the block, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
But it’s not just about speed or sound—it’s about exclusivity. These cars are becoming rarer by the day, and those who own them know they’re holding onto a piece of BMW’s golden era. Whether it’s a nod from another M driver, a conversation at a gas station, or the way heads turn when they hear that unmistakable V10 growl, owning an S85-powered BMW is a special kind of experience—one I wouldn’t trade for anything.
The Harsh Truth About S85 Ownership
Okay, now let’s talk about reality. If you’re considering an S85, you need to know this: it will test your patience and your wallet. Maintenance isn’t optional, and neglect will cost you—big time. Here’s what you should brace for:
The Usual Suspects: What Will Fail (and When)
Throttle Actuators
It’s not a question of if but when with throttle actuators. The S85’s actuators rely on plastic gears that inevitably wear out, paired with subpar electronics not rated for the extreme heat they endure. This deadly combo often leads to limp mode surprises and costly repairs—especially if you opt for OEM replacements. After dealing with enough failures myself, I started a rebuild service and built a business around fixing them.
Rod Bearings – The Ticking Time Bomb
If you haven’t replaced your rod bearings yet, you’re rolling the dice on a very expensive gamble. BMW got the clearances wrong, which causes excessive wear over time. Ignore this issue long enough, and you’re looking at catastrophic engine failure. Consider this mandatory if you want to keep your engine in one piece. With options such as ACL and MAHLE motorpsorts bearings, the cost for this service has gone down drastically as well.
VANOS – The Silent Killer
The S85’s VANOS system is a masterpiece—until it isn’t. Failing solenoids lead to rough idling, power loss, and the dreaded check engine light. The trick here is proactive maintenance. Regular inspections and timely replacements will save you from an expensive headache.
Oil Consumption – It’s Part of the Game
If you’re not topping off oil regularly, you’re doing it wrong. These engines drink 10W-60 synthetic like it’s water, especially when driven hard. Expect to change it every 5,000 miles—no excuses.
SMG III – Love It or Swap It
The SMG III transmission is fast, precise, and incredibly frustrating in stop-and-go traffic. Jerky shifts, expensive hydraulic pump failures, and the occasional refusal to cooperate are all part of the experience. Some owners swear by it, while others rip it out for a 6-speed manual swap. If you plan on keeping the SMG, budget for maintenance and learn how to drive it properly—it makes all the difference.
Fuel Economy – Just Don't Ask
Single-digit MPGs? Yep. If you’re worried about fuel efficiency, you might be in the wrong car. The S85 wasn’t designed to sip gas; it was designed to scream past 8,000 RPM and put a grin on your face. And trust me—it’s worth every drop.
How to Keep Your S85 Happy
Owning an S85 isn’t impossible—it just requires dedication. If you want to keep your V10 running strong, follow this survival guide:
✅ Throttle Actuators: If yours haven’t failed yet, they will. Be ready to replace them. I know a guy.
✅ Rod Bearings: Don’t wait—replace them proactively with quality aftermarket upgrades. This is the biggest killer of these engines.
✅ Oil Changes: Stick to whatever oil you prefer and change it every 5,000 miles. No excuses.
✅ VANOS Maintenance: Stay ahead of issues with regular solenoid inspections and replacements.
✅ Cooling System Overhaul: Water pump, thermostat, hoses—replace them preventatively, not reactively.
✅ SMG Fluid & Pump Care: Regular servicing can prevent sudden (and very expensive) failures.
✅ Regular Diagnostics: Own a BMW-specific scan tool and check for hidden faults before they become real problems.
If you’re willing to stay on top of maintenance, the S85 will reward you with one of the most thrilling driving experiences BMW has ever built. It’s not just a car—it’s a commitment. But for those who understand its quirks and take care of it properly, there’s nothing else like it.
More Power
The S85 is a naturally aspirated masterpiece, but extracting more power isn’t as simple as slapping on a tune and a few bolt-ons. If you’re serious about real gains, it takes the right combination of mods—and a willingness to invest.
My Personal HP Mod List
1. ECU Tune
An ECU tune is one of the easiest and most effective upgrades. It sharpens throttle response, unlocks a bit more power, and removes factory restrictions that hold the engine back.
2. Equal-Length Long Tube Headers
The factory headers are highly restrictive. Upgrading to stepped equal-length headers lets the engine breathe freely, adding 70–80 HP while also unlocking the full vocal range of the S85. There’s nothing quite like hearing this V10 scream with an unrestricted exhaust setup.
3. CSL Plenum Kit (Infinity Design)
Once the foundation is set, I’d recommend setting aside a budget for the CSL Plenum Kit from Infinity Design to further enhance airflow and performance.
Would I Buy an S85 Again?
Despite the costs, the headaches, and the sleepless nights worrying about rod bearings—absolutely, I would.
There’s just something about the S85 that makes it worth it. Every time I hear that V10 scream, every time I push it to redline, it reminds me why I put up with it all. It’s not just a car; it’s a passion project, a rolling piece of art that connects you to BMW’s motorsport legacy.
If you’re considering one, go in with your eyes wide open. Budget for maintenance, get a thorough pre-purchase inspection and embrace the quirks. The S85 isn’t for everyone—but for those who understand, it’s magic.
- Abdul
