BMW M5 2005-2010 5.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
BMW M5 2005-2010

BMW M5 2005-2010 5.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for various bolts on the 5.0L V10 engine of the 2005-2010 BMW M5 (E60). Includes cylinder head, crankshaft, connecting rod, and other critical fasteners.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Cylinder Head

Torque specifications for bolts related to the cylinder head, ensuring proper sealing and compression.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Tighten in specified sequence, torque to 16 ft-lbs, then tighten an additional 90 degrees. Replace bolts after removal.
2

Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Important Notes
Tighten in specified sequence, torque to 10 ft-lbs, then tighten an additional 45 degrees. Estimated value.
3

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque in a crisscross sequence to ensure even pressure.
4

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross sequence to ensure even pressure.
5

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a torque wrench to avoid damaging the cylinder head threads.
6

Ignition Coil Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten to prevent damage to the ignition coil.

Engine Block

Torque specifications for components attached to the engine block, including rotating assembly and oil system.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in specified sequence, ensuring proper crankshaft alignment.
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M10 x 1.25
Important Notes
Torque to 20 ft-lbs, then angle tighten 60 degrees. Replace nuts after removal.
3

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross sequence to ensure proper seal.
4

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer. Do not overtighten.
5

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque bolts evenly to ensure a proper seal against the block.
6

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten to prevent damage.
7

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten, as this can damage the sensor. Estimated value.
8

Coolant Temperature Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten, as this can damage the sensor. Estimated value.

Timing System

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's timing system, ensuring correct valve timing.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper tensioner operation after install.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
90 ft-lbs (122 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure camshaft timing is set correctly before tightening.
3

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) Solenoid Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten to prevent damage to the solenoid. Estimated value.

Intake System

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's intake system, including throttle body and manifolds.

1

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to ensure a proper seal.
2

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in the specified sequence for proper sealing.
3

Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten as this can damage the sensor. Estimated value.

Exhaust System

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's exhaust system, ensuring leak-free operation.

1

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to ensure even pressure and a leak-free seal.
2

EGR Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to ensure proper seal.
3

Oxygen Sensor Bolt

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten to prevent damage to threads.

Fuel System

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's fuel system, ensuring proper fuel delivery and sealing.

1

Fuel Rail Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque bolts evenly to prevent fuel leaks.
2

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque evenly to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

Accessory Drive

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's accessory drive system, including pulleys and belt tensioners.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M18 x 2.0
Torque Value
240 ft-lbs (325 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten. Torque to specification only.
2

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure pulley runs true.

Sensors

Torque specifications for various engine sensors, ensuring correct readings and proper functionality.

1

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten as this can damage the sensor.

Flywheel

Torque specifications for components related to the engine's flywheel.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
Replace bolts after removal, tighten in specified sequence.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Why are correct torque specifications so important for the S85 engine?

Using the correct torque specifications is crucial for the S85 engine to ensure proper sealing, prevent component failure, and maintain optimal engine performance. Over-tightening can lead to bolt breakage, component damage (like warping), and thread stripping. Under-tightening may result in leaks, loosening of components during operation, and potential engine damage. The S85 is a high-performance engine with specific tolerances, so precision is key.

Q2

What happens if I use the wrong torque specification on a bolt in my BMW M5's engine?

Using incorrect torque specs can have serious consequences. Over-torquing can stretch or break bolts, damage threads, and potentially warp engine components like the cylinder head or oil pan. Under-torquing can lead to leaks, loosening, and vibration, potentially resulting in component failure and oil starvation, which is catastrophic for the S85 engine. Always refer to the official BMW repair manual for the correct values.

Q3

Should I use new bolts when working on the S85 engine?

It's highly recommended to use new bolts, especially for critical components like the cylinder head bolts and connecting rod bolts, during engine work. These bolts are often torque-to-yield (TTY) or stretch bolts, designed to stretch upon tightening, providing consistent clamping force. Reusing TTY bolts can lead to inconsistent clamping, potential failures, and leaks, even if torqued correctly to spec. Using new bolts ensures optimal performance.

Q4

Do I need to use an angle gauge when torquing certain bolts on the S85?

Yes, many bolts on the S85 engine, particularly cylinder head bolts and connecting rod bolts, require a final tightening stage involving an angle measurement (e.g., '30 degrees'). This angle torque ensures the correct tension after initial torqueing, as these are typically torque-to-yield (TTY) or stretch bolts. An angle gauge or a torque wrench with angle measurement capabilities is necessary to achieve the correct clamping force. Ignoring the angle torque step can result in improper clamping and potential failure.

Q5

What should I do if I strip a bolt thread in the engine?

Stripped bolt threads can occur if a bolt is over-tightened. If you strip a thread, it’s best to assess the situation first. If the bolt hole is in a critical part of the engine block, you may need professional intervention or thread repair with specialized tools, such as a Helicoil or Time-Sert kit. Attempting a quick or improper fix can lead to further problems. It's crucial to stop and re-evaluate when a thread is stripped and consult an expert if needed.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/2 inch drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for tightening bolts to their precise specifications. 1/2 inch drive is suitable for the torque ranges encountered in engine assembly.

  • Accurate torque settings
  • Wide torque range
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)

A smaller 3/8 inch drive torque wrench is necessary for lower torque applications and smaller bolts in the engine bay.

  • Accurate torque settings
  • Suitable for smaller fasteners
Learn more

Torx Socket Set

A comprehensive set of Torx sockets is required to fasten various components of the BMW V10 engine.

  • Variety of Torx sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Standard Socket Set (Metric)

A standard metric socket set is needed for the majority of fasteners encountered in the engine assembly.

  • Comprehensive range of metric sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Angle Torque Meter

An angle meter or angle wrench attachment is required for achieving proper torque-angle specifications for stretch bolts, as some of the bolts within this engine are to be tightened past a pre-determined value to a specific angle.

  • Measures degrees of rotation
  • Helps achieve precise torque-angle values
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct method for tightening the cylinder head bolts on the S85 V10 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Apply new cylinder head bolts (always replace)
  • Tighten all bolts in sequence to 40 Nm.
  • Using an angle wrench or angle gauge, tighten bolts 1-10, with an additional 90 degree turn.
  • Tighten bolts 11-20, with an additional 90 degree turn.
  • Tighten bolts 1-10, with an additional 80 degree turn.
  • Tighten bolts 11-20, with an additional 80 degree turn.
  • Verify all bolts are properly tightened.
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct method for tightening the connecting rod bolts on the S85 V10 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Apply new connecting rod bolts (always replace)
  • Tighten the bolts in the sequence to 20 Nm.
  • Using an angle wrench or angle gauge, tighten all bolts with an additional 50 degree turn.
  • Verify all bolts are properly tightened.
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

This procedure outlines the correct method for tightening the main bearing cap bolts on the S85 V10 engine.

  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces.
  • Apply new main bearing cap bolts (always replace)
  • Tighten the inner main cap bolts to 20 Nm.
  • Tighten the outer main cap bolts to 20 Nm.
  • Using an angle wrench or angle gauge, tighten the inner main cap bolts with an additional 60 degree turn.
  • Using an angle wrench or angle gauge, tighten the outer main cap bolts with an additional 60 degree turn.
  • Verify all bolts are properly tightened.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

S85 Engine Cylinder Head Bolt Failure

2008-03-15

Some instances of S85 engines have experienced cylinder head bolt failure due to improper tightening during prior services or manufacturing issues. New bolts with improved material strength are recommended.

2005-2007 M5 2006-2007 M6

Resolution: Replace cylinder head bolts with updated part number, following the correct tightening procedure using an angle gauge.

S85 Connecting Rod Bolt Fatigue

2010-08-20

Connecting rod bolts on high mileage S85 engines may suffer from metal fatigue, which could cause internal engine failure. Inspection and replacement of these bolts is recommended as a preventative measure.

2005-2010 M5 2006-2010 M6

Resolution: Inspect connecting rod bolts for signs of fatigue. Replace with new bolts using a specific tightening procedure with angle measurement. Always replace during major engine work.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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