BMW E70 X5 M
The first M SUV: a 555 hp twin-turbo V8 with a cross-bank exhaust manifold, all-wheel drive and an absurd turn of speed for something this size.
The X5 M was the first M-badged SUV and it caused an argument that has never fully died down. It also introduced the S63 engine, with its hot-vee turbo placement and cross-bank exhaust manifold, which went on to power the M5 and M6.
It is enormously fast in a straight line and surprisingly composed in corners for a 5,300 lb vehicle, helped by an active rear differential and a well-calibrated all-wheel-drive system.
The first-generation S63 is the least robust version of the engine, and buying one now is a matter of finding a car whose known issues have already been addressed.
Year by year
- 2010–2011
Launch cars with the original S63. Timing chain, valve stem seal and bearing concerns are most relevant here.
- 2012
Running improvements to the engine and cooling. Interior and iDrive updates.
- 2013 — final year
Last of the E70 M cars; best accumulated running changes.
The good and the bad
Positives
- +555 hp and 500 lb-ft from just 1,500 rpm
- +Genuinely capable handling for a large SUV
- +Practical: five seats, real cargo space, all-weather traction
- +Now very cheap relative to the performance
- +The original S63 — historically significant in the M engine story
Negatives
- −First-generation S63 is the least reliable M V8
- −Timing chain and valve stem seal repairs are engine-out jobs
- −Fuel economy in the low teens at best
- −Tires, brakes and suspension consumables are expensive
- −Cheap purchase prices mask enormous maintenance liabilities
Known faults and what they cost
- Timing chain and guides$6,000–$12,000
The defining early S63 issue; often requires engine removal.
- Valve stem seals$5,000–$9,000
Blue smoke on start-up after sitting is the classic symptom.
- Rod bearings$4,000–$7,000
A known wear item on the early S63; check service history.
- Coolant transfer pipe leaks$2,500–$4,500
Valley leaks require intake removal and significant labour.
Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- 01Cold-start observation for blue smoke indicating valve stem seal wear
- 02Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in the first seconds after start
- 03Full scan for misfire, fuel trim and cooling system codes
- 04Check for coolant loss without visible external leaks
- 05Verify any engine work with detailed invoices
- 06Assume a $7,000 maintenance reserve on any undocumented car
Modifications for longevity
- Oil every 5,000 miles
The factory interval is far too long for this engine.
- Timing chain assessment
Have a specialist evaluate chain condition before problems escalate.
- Cooling system
Full refresh including the valley pipe if not already done.
- Transmission and transfer case fluid
Every 40k miles regardless of 'lifetime' claims.
- Brakes and tires
Budget for large, expensive consumables on a heavy vehicle.
Modifications for performance
- 01Fix it first
Never add power to an S63 with unresolved chain or bearing questions.
- 02Tune
620–650 hp on stock hardware; the engine responds strongly.
- 03Downpipes and cooling
680 hp with much better heat management.
- 04Suspension and tires
Serious tires and dampers matter more than power at this weight.
What they are worth
Prices are very low, which reflects the maintenance liability rather than the car's ability. A documented, sorted example is worth paying a large premium for.
Avoid cheap cars with unknown engine history — the repairs routinely exceed the vehicle's value.
Owner discussion
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