BMW M3, M5 & M6 – Engine Rod Bearing Failure
The engine rod bearings in these BMW models experience excessive wear and consequently premature failure. Some engines have been known to fail within 60,000 miles.
This premature component failure appears to occur because the connecting rod bearing clearance to journal ratio for S65/S85 engines is smaller than recommended by engine builders. This lack of adequate clearance causes inadequate oil lubrication between the crank journal and the connecting rod bearings, resulting in premature wear of the rod bearings. Additionally, the debris produced by this process can damage the connecting rod bearings and other engine parts.
The original rod bearings (088/089) were manufactured from 2007 with several layers, including copper and lead. BMW released an updated rod bearing (702/703) around mid 2010 manufactured from tin & aluminium, coupled with a slight increase in bearing clearance value.
BMW owners should consider rod bearing replacement as preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of severe engine damage in the event of bearing failure.
Affected car models and engine codes:
| Model No. | Year Registered | Engine Code |
|---|---|---|
| E90 M3 E92 M3 E93 M3 |
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 |
S65B40 |
| E92 M3 GTS | 2010, 2011 | S65B44 |
| E90 M3 CRT | 2011 | S65B44 |
| Model No. | Year Registered | Engine Code |
|---|---|---|
| E60 M5 E61 M5 |
2007, 2008 | S85B50 |
| E63 M6 E64 M6 |
2010, 2011 | S85B50 |
Rod Bearing Replacement Service
BMW M3 (S65) before engine damage or failure will be £2,200
BMW M5 & M6 (S85) before damage or failure will be £2,400
This service will include replacement of modified specification shells as a precautionary measure.
Engine Rebuild Service
If your engine has been damaged by rod bearing failure, we can rebuild the damaged engine and fit the revised rod bearing kit supplied by BMW.
BMW M3 (S65) engine rebuild costs will be £6,000 – £8,000
BMW M5 & M6 (S85) engine rebuild costs will be £6,200 – £8,200
The large price variation depends on damaged engine components, which can only be properly assessed once the engine is stripped down in our workshop. All engine rebuilds use genuine BMW parts, including modified BMW rod-bearing shells.
About Prestige German Engines
We are BMW engine rebuild specialists providing a comprehensive rebuild service. Vehicle collection is available for an additional charge – please call for a quote.
We currently have a busy workshop, lead times can be 7-10 days, please call to arrange your repair.
All BMW engine rebuilds include a 12 month (non-transferable) warranty.