This $2,000 Super Sedan Might Be The Bargain Or The Disaster Of The Year | Carscoops

      The buyer reports that they acquired this M5 for only $2,000 and believes they can easily get it back on the road.

      On July 4, 2025, at 17:40, Stephen Rivers reported that a mechanically inclined buyer bought a non-operational E60 BMW M5 for a mere $2,000.

      This high-performance sedan had been idle for seven years following a clutch replacement that left it unable to start.

      With some effort, this 507-hp M5 could regain its impressive performance and distinctive V10 engine sound.

      If vehicles were solely evaluated based on their potential risk and reward, the E60 BMW M5 would score near the highest tier. Featuring a naturally aspirated V10 engine, this super sedan is the last M5 without a turbocharger, known for its engineering brilliance as well as some challenges.

      It's notorious for having issues with bearings and clutches, making it a costly car to maintain. Nonetheless, someone recently took a chance on a functioning but undriveable version for just $2,000, which could end up being the best expenditure they've ever made.

      A Minor Issue with Major Consequences

      Actually, it seems there’s minimal risk based on their account. Allegedly, the vehicle has been stationary for about seven years. The previous owner, a farmer, replaced the clutch and then struggled to get it running again. The new owner claims that the car requires a transmission adaptation due to the new clutch, but there’s a hitch.

      For some reason, the car won’t complete this adaptation process, preventing it from shifting gears or moving. Interestingly, the owner has observed that the parking brake light remains illuminated even when the parking brake is disengaged. This suggests that the vehicle’s “brain” may be resisting the adaptation because it believes the brake is engaged. They mention that an OBD II code reader supports this hypothesis.

      Currently, they are attempting to disconnect the switch that indicates to the ECU that the parking brake is engaged. If the vehicle permits the adaptation afterward, they could end up with a functional M5 for just $2,000, an incredible deal for a car with such high-performance potential.

      Addressing the Known Weaknesses

      Naturally, concerns persist regarding the M5’s notorious mechanical vulnerabilities. The poster states they have access to a lift and possess the mechanical ability and willingness to replace the bearings and VANOS solenoids, which might be sufficient to keep this BMW running smoothly for years, especially since the clutch is nearly new.

      Let’s hope it all works out. With 507 horsepower from that roaring V10 engine, even a simple trip to the grocery store would feel like a celebration.

      Just picked up this BMW M5 for … $2,000, and despite the price, it’s not junk by u/Kareem89086 in BMW.

      Credit: Kareem89086