2018 Bmw M5 Safety Report

2018 BMW M5: Low complaint volume, but three critical recalls address potential crash risks.

4Complaints
3Recalls
70/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)Engine (1)Air Bags,Seat Belts (1)Power Train,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Bmw M5

The 2018 BMW M5 exhibits a relatively low number of NHTSA complaints, with only 4 total complaints, 0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 deaths reported. This suggests a generally safe operational record in terms of direct incident reporting. However, the vehicle has been subject to 3 safety recalls, which address potentially serious issues that could increase the risk of a crash if not rectified. These recalls cover critical systems such as the back-up camera, fuel level sensor, and engine control unit software affecting the fuel pump. Common complaint patterns, despite the low volume, point towards issues with the engine and power train. Specifically, two complaints mention 'ENGINE' and one 'POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM'. One detailed complaint describes an engine control unit software issue causing the fuel pump to stop, leading to a vehicle stall at 65 MPH, directly aligning with one of the recalls. Another recurring theme, though not explicitly listed in the top components, is the expansion tank failure, with two complaints detailing coolant leaks affecting ignition coils and fuel injectors. The recall history is significant, with all three recalls addressing issues that could lead to a crash. The 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA' recall addresses the lack of a back-up camera image. The 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY' recall concerns an incorrect fuel gauge reading leading to stalling. Most critically, the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE' recall addresses engine control unit software that could cause the fuel pump to stop, resulting in a stall. These recalls indicate that while the complaint volume is low, the manufacturer has identified and acted upon potentially dangerous defects. NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2018 BMW M5 are not available (N/A) for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover categories. This lack of data means that direct performance in standardized crash scenarios cannot be assessed through NHTSA's rating system. Therefore, the safety assessment relies more heavily on complaint data and recall information, which, despite the low complaint count, highlight several critical safety-related defects addressed by recalls.

Reliability Score

The 2018 Bmw M5 receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2018 Bmw M5

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Bmw M5:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Control Unit Software Causing Fuel Pump Stop
Engine control unit software may cause the fuel pump to stop, leading to vehicle stall and increased crash risk. Addressed by recall.
High Rare new-unknown miles
Fuel Level Sensor Malfunction
Fuel level sensor may become stuck, causing an incorrect fuel gauge display, potentially leading to vehicle stalling. Addressed by recall.
High Rare unknown miles
Back-Up Camera Display Failure
Lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash. Addressed by recall.
Medium Rare unknown miles
Coolant Expansion Tank Failure
Expansion tank failure causing coolant leaks, potentially affecting ignition coils and fuel injectors. Mentioned in two complaints.
Medium Occasional 22000-unknown miles
Passenger Restraint System/Airbag Error
Intermittent iDrive error for passenger restraint system, indicating a seat belt issue and turning off the airbag.
Medium Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Bmw M5:

Engine 50% of complaints

Two out of four complaints directly mention engine issues, including a stall due to fuel pump failure and coolant leaks from an expansion tank affecting engine components.

Power Train,Fuel/Propulsion System 25% of complaints

One complaint specifically references power train and fuel system issues, aligning with the recall concerning the fuel pump stopping.

Air Bags,Seat Belts 25% of complaints

One complaint details an intermittent error with the passenger restraint system and airbag.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Bmw M5

Is the 2018 BMW M5 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 BMW M5 has a very low number of reported complaints (4 total) with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. However, it has been subject to 3 safety recalls addressing critical issues like fuel pump failure, fuel level sensor malfunction, and back-up camera display issues, all of which could increase the risk of a crash if not repaired. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this model.

What are common problems for the 2018 BMW M5?

The most reported issues, despite the low complaint volume, relate to the ENGINE (50% of complaints) and POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (25%). Specific problems include engine control unit software causing fuel pump stops, fuel level sensor malfunctions, and coolant expansion tank failures leading to leaks. There's also a reported intermittent issue with the passenger restraint system and airbag.

Has the 2018 BMW M5 been recalled?

Yes, the 2018 BMW M5 has been subject to 3 safety recalls. These include recalls for the back-up camera system, the fuel level sensor in the fuel tank, and the engine control unit software which could cause the fuel pump to stop.

Are there any known engine issues with the 2018 BMW M5?

Yes, there are known engine issues. One recall addresses engine control unit software that can cause the fuel pump to stop, leading to a stall. Additionally, complaints mention coolant expansion tank failures causing leaks that can affect engine components like ignition coils and fuel injectors.

What should I check before buying a used 2018 BMW M5?

Before buying a used 2018 BMW M5, ensure all 3 safety recalls have been completed. Specifically, verify the fuel pump software update, fuel level sensor repair, and back-up camera system fix. Also, inquire about the coolant expansion tank and check for any signs of leaks or related repairs, as this has been a reported issue.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but critical safety recalls, ensure all recall repairs have been completed and inspect for common issues like coolant leaks before purchasing a 2018 BMW M5.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Bmw M5

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Bmw M5. The data includes 4 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.