🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M5

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

E60

Generation:

Fifth Generation (E60)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

High-performance luxury sedan

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with cars like the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, Audi S6, and Cadillac CTS-V of the same era, offering superior engine performance and handling dynamics.

Key Features:

Naturally aspirated V10 engine, advanced suspension system (EDC), iDrive infotainment system, head-up display (optional), high-quality interior materials.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All regions

Page Count:

Approximately 400-500 pages (estimated for comprehensive owner's manual)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Infotainment, Body and Chassis, Safety Systems, Maintenance, Troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Operating instructions, routine maintenance, fluid checks and top-offs, tire pressure monitoring, warning light explanations, basic troubleshooting, emergency procedures, driver assistance system operation, infotainment system usage, interior and exterior feature explanations.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information; not a detailed repair manual for in-depth mechanical procedures but covers user-maintainable items and system overviews.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V10

Engine Displacement:

5.0 Liters (4999 cc)

Engine Code:

S85B50

Horsepower:

500 hp @ 7,750 rpm

Torque:

383 lb-ft @ 6,100 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed SMG III (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with Drivelogic

Transmission Type:

None offered for the 2006 model year in most markets. Some later markets might have had a manual option, but the SMG was standard for the E60 M5.

Drivelogic Modes:

Allows driver to select shifting characteristics from 1 (most comfort-oriented) to 6 (most aggressive), plus a launch control function.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

190.6 inches (4,843 mm)

Width:

72.7 inches (1,847 mm)

Height:

57.5 inches (1,460 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (2,964 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,000 - 4,100 lbs (1,814 - 1,860 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not specifically rated for 2006, but E60 platform generally performed well in its era.

IIHS Front Offset:

Not specifically rated for 2006 M5, but E60 platform generally performed well.

Active Safety Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (TC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (airbags), seatbelt pre-tensioners, active front head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive system with 7-inch color display

Audio System:

Standard Hi-Fi sound system; Logic7 premium audio system and Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound system were optional.

Driver Assistance Features:

Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control (PDC), Rain-sensing wipers, Automatic headlights, Cruise control.

Optional Driver Assistance:

Head-Up Display (HUD), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Connectivity Options:

BMW Assist (optional with telematics), Bluetooth hands-free interface (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically around 10,000-15,000 miles, dependent on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 is recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

9.5 liters (10.0 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific SMG fluid; consult manual or dealer for exact specification. Often a Pentosin CHF 11S or similar hydraulic fluid.

Known Issues:

Rod bearing wear (especially if not meticulously maintained), VANOS system issues, SMG hydraulic pump failure, throttle body actuators, oil consumption due to high-revving V10.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW M GmbH is renowned for its high-performance vehicles, translating motorsport expertise into road-legal machines.

Model Evolution:

The E60 M5 succeeded the E39 M5, marking a significant shift with the introduction of the V10 engine and SMG transmission, a departure from the E39's naturally aspirated inline-six and manual gearbox.

Production Years:

2005-2010 (for the E60 M5 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Ward's 10 Best Engines for the S85 V10 engine (multiple years)

Ratings:

Generally received high marks from automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and engineering prowess.