2019 Bmw M5 Competition

The 2019 BMW M5 Competition represents the pinnacle of executive performance, blending a 617-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. This guide provides deep technical insights into maintaining its mechanical health, addressing common F90-generation pain points, and optimizing its track-ready capabilities for daily use.

You have likely realized that owning a high-performance machine is a double-edged sword. On one hand, you have a car that can outrun supercars while carrying four adults in absolute comfort. On the other, the maintenance requirements and technical complexity can feel overwhelming if you are not prepared.

I promise to break down the technical barriers of the F90 chassis, giving you the confidence to handle basic DIY tasks and identify when a professional technician is required. Whether you are a seasoned wrench-turner or a new owner, this guide will ensure your 2019 bmw m5 competition remains a reliable precision instrument.

We will explore everything from the critical S63 engine maintenance intervals to the nuances of the M xDrive system. By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap for preserving the value and performance of your ultimate driving machine.

Table of Contents

Understanding the F90 Chassis and Powertrain

The F90 generation marked a massive shift for the M5 lineage by introducing the M xDrive system. Unlike previous iterations, this car uses a rear-biased all-wheel-drive setup that allows the driver to disconnect the front axle entirely for a pure rear-wheel-drive experience.

Under the hood sits the S63B44T4, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. In the Competition trim, BMW increased the power to 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. They also utilized firmer engine mounts to improve throttle response and chassis rigidity, which is a key differentiator from the standard M5.

The transmission is a departure from the older dual-clutch units, utilizing a specially tuned ZF 8-speed automatic. This torque-converter setup provides smoother low-speed crawling while maintaining lightning-fast shifts under load. Understanding these components is the first step in mastering the maintenance of your 2019 bmw m5 competition.

The S63 Engine Architecture

The “Hot V” configuration places the turbochargers inside the V-bank of the engine. This design reduces turbo lag and improves thermal efficiency, but it also creates immense heat soak in the engine bay. Managing this heat is the primary challenge for any owner looking for long-term reliability.

Because the turbos are nestled in the center, plastic and rubber components in the vicinity tend to get brittle over time. Pay close attention to vacuum lines and coolant hoses that run near the top of the engine. Frequent inspections can prevent small leaks from becoming catastrophic failures.

M xDrive and Suspension Tuning

The Competition model sits 7mm lower than the standard M5 and features increased front camber. It also uses ball-jointed rear toe links instead of rubber bushings. This creates a more “connected” feel to the road but can lead to slightly more road noise and a stiffer ride on rough pavement.

The transfer case is the heart of the M xDrive system. It requires precise fluid management to ensure the multi-plate clutch operates smoothly. If you notice a “shudder” during low-speed tight turns, it is often a sign that the transfer case fluid needs a refresh, even if the service manual says it is a “lifetime” fill.

Essential Maintenance Schedule for Your M5

Maintaining a high-strung V8 requires more than just following the onboard computer. For a 2019 bmw m5 competition, I recommend an “enthusiast” maintenance schedule. This means shortening the intervals for oil changes and driveline fluids to account for the high heat and pressure these engines generate.

Engine oil should be changed every 5,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. BMW recommends a 0W-30 or 5W-30 weight that meets the LL-01 FE or LL-17 FE+ specifications. Using a high-quality synthetic oil is non-negotiable for protecting those expensive turbocharger bearings.

Spark plugs are another critical item. Because the S63 is a high-boost, direct-injection engine, spark plugs wear faster than in a standard 5 Series. Aim to replace them every 30,000 miles to prevent misfires and maintain peak combustion efficiency.

DIY Oil Change Steps

Warm up the engine to operating temperature to ensure the oil flows freely.
Raise the vehicle safely using a lift or high-quality jack stands at the factory jacking points.
Remove the plastic underbody shield using an 8mm socket to access the drain plug.
Drain the oil into a large container (the S63 holds approximately 10 liters).
Replace the oil filter located at the top of the engine bay using a 32mm socket.
Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and tighten to 25Nm.
Refill with the correct oil and reset the service light via the iDrive menu.

Brake System Care

The M5 Competition comes standard with massive 6-piston front calipers. If your car is equipped with the Carbon Ceramic Brakes (gold calipers), maintenance is minimal but replacement costs are astronomical. For the standard steel brakes (blue calipers), expect frequent pad and rotor changes if you drive spiritedly.

Always use a high-quality DOT 4 Low Viscosity brake fluid. I recommend a full brake fluid flush every two years. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to internal corrosion of the ABS pump and a “mushy” brake pedal feel during hard stops.

Common Issues to Watch For

No car is perfect, and the F90 has a few specific “weak points” that every owner should know. The most notorious issue involves the coolant expansion tank. On many 2019 models, the seam on the plastic tank can fail, allowing coolant to leak directly onto the fuel injectors and wiring harness below.

If coolant enters the injector wells, it can cause electrical shorts and engine misfires. Check your coolant levels weekly. If you see white crusty residue around the tank or a “low coolant” warning, replace the tank immediately with the updated part number to avoid a multi-thousand-dollar repair bill.

Another common complaint is brake squeal. The high-performance pads used on the 2019 bmw m5 competition are designed for friction, not silence. While annoying, it is usually not a mechanical fault. Applying a proper anti-squeal paste to the back of the pads can help, but some noise is a trade-off for the massive stopping power.

Ignition Coil Failure

High heat in the “Hot V” can cause the ignition coils to degrade prematurely. If you experience a “Drivetrain Malfunction” warning under heavy acceleration, a failing coil is the most likely culprit. It is best practice to replace all eight coils at the same time you do your spark plugs for peace of mind.

When replacing coils, ensure you are using OEM Eldor or Delphi units. The S63 engine is very sensitive to electrical resistance, and cheap aftermarket coils will often cause more problems than they solve. Always ensure the coil is fully seated on the plug to prevent arcing.

The 2019 bmw m5 competition is more than just a spec sheet; it is a masterclass in chassis tuning. Compared to the standard model, the Competition features a 10% stiffer spring rate and revised damping. This makes the car incredibly composed on a track, though it can be a bit punishing on broken city streets.

One of the best features of this specific year is the inclusion of the M Sport Exhaust as standard. It provides a more aggressive growl and the “pops and bangs” on overrun that enthusiasts love. You can toggle this via the exhaust button on the center console, which opens or closes the internal flaps.

For those who enjoy DIY work, the F90 is surprisingly accessible for basic tasks. Most of the plastic covers in the engine bay can be removed without tools, allowing you to inspect for leaks or debris. However, always remember that this car uses complex electronics, so a dedicated OBDII scanner like BimmerLink is an essential tool for your garage.

Wheel and Tire Considerations

The Competition model comes with 20-inch forged wheels (Style 789M). These wheels are lightweight but susceptible to “curb rash” due to the low-profile tires. I highly recommend sticking with Star-Marked Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The “Star” indicates they were specifically engineered for BMW’s AWD system requirements.

Running non-star tires or mismatched brands between the front and rear can actually damage the transfer case. The M xDrive system is sensitive to differences in rolling circumference. Even a 1% difference in tire diameter can cause the AWD system to behave erratically or overheat the clutches.

Performance Upgrades and DIY Modifications

If 617 horsepower isn’t enough, the 2019 bmw m5 competition has a massive aftermarket following. The easiest way to unlock more power is through a “Stage 1” ECU tune. This can often push the car toward 700 horsepower without changing any hardware, though it will likely void your powertrain warranty.

For hardware, consider a set of high-flow air filters or a modified intake system. Because the turbos are so large, they benefit greatly from improved breathing. Just be careful with “open” intakes that suck in hot engine bay air; a closed-box system is usually better for maintaining consistent power levels.

Another popular mod is the “secondary downpipe” delete. This removes a set of restrictive catalysts further down the exhaust stream. It increases turbo spool speed and enhances the V8 rumble without causing a “Check Engine Light” in most cases, as the primary cats remain in place for emissions monitoring.

Coding with BimmerCode

Modern BMWs are highly customizable through software. Using a wireless OBDII adapter and the BimmerCode app, you can change how your car behaves. You can disable the Auto Start/Stop feature, change the ambient lighting colors, or even program the mirrors to fold automatically when you lock the doors.

One of my favorite “pro” tips is to code the “Video in Motion” and “M-style” instrument cluster layouts. It allows you to tailor the digital experience to match the aggressive nature of the Competition trim. Just remember to always create a backup of your car’s original coding before making any changes.

Driving Dynamics and Daily Living

Living with a 2019 bmw m5 competition requires a bit of a strategy. The car has two “M” buttons on the steering wheel (M1 and M2). These are shortcuts for your favorite settings. I recommend setting M1 for “Daily Comfort” (Efficient engine, Comfort suspension, AWD) and M2 for “Maximum Attack” (Sport Plus engine, Sport suspension, 4WD Sport).

The 4WD Sport mode is the sweet spot for enthusiasts. It sends more power to the rear wheels while keeping the front wheels ready to pull you out of a slide. It makes the car feel much smaller and more agile than its 4,300-pound curb weight would suggest.

Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of leather and carbon fiber. To keep the Merino leather looking new, use a dedicated leather cleaner and conditioner every three months. This prevents the bolsters from cracking due to the friction of entering and exiting the deep bucket seats.

Fuel Economy and Practicality

Don’t expect miracles at the gas pump. While the ZF 8-speed is efficient on the highway, the S63 engine is thirsty. You will likely average 12-15 MPG in the city and up to 21 MPG on long highway cruises. Always use 93 octane (98 RON) fuel to prevent pre-ignition and ensure the engine hits its target boost levels.

Despite the performance, it is still a 5 Series. You have a massive trunk, ISOFIX points for car seats, and a quiet cabin when the exhaust valves are closed. It is the ultimate “one-car solution” for the enthusiast who needs to balance family life with a passion for driving.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 BMW M5 Competition

Does the 2019 M5 Competition have a dual-clutch transmission?

No, the 2019 M5 uses a ZF 8-speed M-Steptronic automatic transmission. While it is a torque-converter automatic, it has been heavily modified by the M Division for extremely fast shifts and features Drivelogic settings to adjust shift speed and intensity.

How often should I change the differential fluid?

BMW often claims these are “lifetime” fluids, but for a high-performance car like the 2019 bmw m5 competition, I recommend changing the front, rear, and transfer case fluids every 50,000 miles. This is cheap insurance against expensive driveline repairs.

What is the difference between the M5 and the M5 Competition?

The Competition model features 17 extra horsepower, stiffer engine mounts, a lower and stiffer suspension, revised wheel geometry, and unique forged wheels. It also includes the M Sport Exhaust and high-gloss black exterior trim as standard equipment.

Can the 2019 M5 Competition be driven in the winter?

Absolutely. Thanks to the M xDrive system, the M5 is an excellent winter car when equipped with proper winter tires. In “4WD” mode, the car provides immense traction on snow and ice, making it far more capable than previous rear-wheel-drive M5 models.

Closing Thoughts for the M5 Owner

Owning a 2019 bmw m5 competition is a rewarding experience that requires a proactive approach to maintenance. By staying on top of oil changes, monitoring the coolant expansion tank, and choosing the right tires, you can enjoy this car’s incredible performance for years to come.

Remember that while these cars are engineered to handle incredible stress, they are also sensitive to neglect. Treat your M5 with respect, use high-quality parts, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty with some basic DIY tasks. The connection you build with your machine through maintenance only makes the driving experience more satisfying.

Stay safe on the roads, keep an eye on those temperatures, and enjoy every mile behind the wheel of one of the greatest sport sedans ever built!

Author
Recent Posts

Robert Lozano

Robert Lozano is the founder of Engine Needs. With a passion for engines and automotive technology, he provides expert reviews, guides, and advice to help drivers make smarter vehicle decisions.

2019 Bmw M5 Competition – The Ultimate Performance Sedan Ownership