Ignition Coil Guide for the 2005-2011 BMW M5 (E60)
Keep your S85 V10 engine firing on all ten cylinders with the right ignition coils.
- Ignition coil failure is a common issue on the S85 V10, causing misfires, rough idle, and power loss.
- It is strongly recommended to replace all 10 coils at once using a quality OEM or aftermarket brand like Delphi or NGK.
- Ensure you use the correct white-colored coils designed for the S85 engine, as standard BMW coils will not work properly.
- Replacement is a straightforward DIY job for most owners, requiring basic tools and about 1-2 hours.
Understanding Ignition Coil Failure in Your M5
The ignition coils on the E60 M5's S85 engine are critical for its performance. Due to the high-revving nature of this V10 and the intense heat in the engine bay, ignition coils are considered a common wear item. While they can last a long time, it's not unusual for them to start failing, especially on higher-mileage cars around 100,000 miles or more. When one coil fails, others are often not far behind, which is why many mechanics recommend replacing all ten at once for balanced performance and to avoid future issues.
Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil
A failing ignition coil will directly impact how your M5's engine runs. The most common sign is an engine misfire, which you will feel as a rough idle, hesitation when you accelerate, or a general loss of power. 🎬 See common causes and fixes for S85 engine misfires. This will almost always trigger the 'Check Engine' light and may even put the car into a reduced power "limp mode." You may also notice worse fuel economy. Ignoring a misfire can lead to unburnt fuel damaging your expensive catalytic converters.
Ionic Current Control Module
In some cases, misfire issues that don't resolve after replacing spark plugs and coils could be caused by a failing Ionic Current Control Module. There is one module for each cylinder bank, and they control the ignition timing. This is a less common but known issue on the S85 engine.
🎬 Watch: How to replace the Ionic Current Control Module.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coils
For a high-performance engine like the S85, sticking to reputable ignition coil brands is essential. While Genuine BMW coils are available, several aftermarket brands produce high-quality replacements, and some are even the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for BMW.
Tier 1: OEM-Quality Brands
- Delphi: Delphi is a well-regarded OEM supplier for BMW. Many owners and shops recommend them as a reliable, high-quality alternative to Genuine BMW parts, sometimes citing that BMW switched to them from Bosch due to better reliability. They are known for good performance and durability.
- NGK: While famous for spark plugs, NGK also produces ignition coils. They are a trusted Japanese brand known for quality and are often considered on par with OEM parts.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): Standard is a long-standing aftermarket brand that often engineers its parts to improve upon original designs. Their products are generally considered a solid choice.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- Spectra: Spectra offers a range of aftermarket parts and can be a viable budget-friendly option, though they may not have the same long-standing OEM reputation as Delphi or NGK for European cars.
- Walker Products: Walker is known for a wide range of engine management components. They market their coils as meeting or exceeding OE standards and can be a cost-effective choice.
Tier 3: Budget Brands
- DriveWire & Global Parts: These brands fall into the budget or economy category. While they offer significant cost savings, their long-term reliability and performance on a demanding engine like the S85 V10 are less proven. For a vehicle of this caliber, it's generally recommended to invest in a higher-tier brand to avoid potential performance issues or premature failure.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
To ensure consistent performance and avoid future labor costs, it is highly recommended to replace all 10 ignition coils at the same time, especially if the originals have high mileage. It's also a good idea to replace the spark plugs at the same time if they are due. The original coils on the S85 are a specific white-colored design; standard black coils from other BMW models will not work correctly.
Cost of Replacing Ignition Coils
| Part Type | Price Range (Per Coil) | Price Range (Set of 10) |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Genuine BMW) | $115 - $130 | $1150 - $1300 |
| New Aftermarket (Tier 1) | $55 - $105 | $550 - $1050 |
| New Aftermarket (Budget) | $35 - $50 | $350 - $500 |
| Shop Labor | $200 - $400 | |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is replacing the ignition coils a DIY job?
Yes, for someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a manageable DIY project. The coils are located on top of the engine. Accessing them requires removing the airboxes and some covers, but it does not require specialized tools. The difficulty is estimated to be low, taking about 1-2 hours.
🎬 Watch: A complete step-by-step ignition coil replacement walkthrough.Do I need to replace all 10 coils at once?
While you can replace just the single failed coil, it is highly recommended to replace them all as a set. Coils are subjected to the same heat and wear, so when one fails, the others are likely to fail soon. Replacing them all ensures balanced ignition performance across all cylinders.
Were there any recalls for the E60 M5 ignition coils?
There are no specific NHTSA recalls for ignition coil failure on the 2005-2011 BMW M5. Searches for recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the ignition coils on the S85 engine did not find any official campaigns for this issue, though coil failure is a widely documented common problem among owners.
Should I use dielectric grease on the new coils?
Yes, applying a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the new coil boot is recommended. This helps protect the connection from moisture and makes future removal easier.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12137841556 12137835108
Coil-on-plug design, 10 required for the S85 V10 engine.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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