Potential Boston-Area M6 GC Owner

[AronL]

Hi everyone!

My beloved 2015 535d (likely the only M-sport with the Active Handling Package in New England, if not the entire East Coast) was totaled last week.

I’m considering upgrading to an M6 Grand Coupe, and I have some questions about owning it as a daily driver in New England, along with general ones.

First of all, how is it in the winter (obviously with snow tires)?
How is it on rough potholed roads like we have outside Boston?
How reliable is it?
What are people getting for ACTUAL fuel mileage?
If I occasionally use low test fuel, will I risk knock or other forms of damage to the fuel system?

Basically, how is it to daily drive?

[JDMSteven]

If you even have to ask about using anything less than 93/91, don't buy one. These cars a whole different world compared to a 535d. They can be reliable. They can be nightmares to own. Keep a spare 10k just in case if you have an M car. If you do have a spare 10k and can afford the service and repair costs then go for it. I live in FL so I can't comment on snow driving.

[AronL]

I see. That's... Not great news.

[LJohnson32]

In all honestly these are not cars to own on a budget. If you're worried about costs on something as simple as putting the right fuel into the car to save a few bucks and cut corners, or at all concerned about MPG this probably is not the car for you honestly. Summertime average fuel mileage for me is around 18 and I'm not particularly hard on the car, and in the winter that number will drop to about 14-15.

These cars do not respond nicely to deferred maintenance and almost always this leads to premature (expensive) failures.

They can be driven in the wintertime -- I drove mine for one winter but then I decided to buy a winter car (Rubicon 4xe) so I didn't have to anymore.

These cars treat you well if you treat them well, otherwise they can (and often will) be a nightmare.

[AronL]

I appreciate the response! I would always fill on high or mid-test, but I wanted to make sure on the off-chance I might HAVE to fill on regular, it wouldn't destroy my engine.


My aim would be to purchase an aftermarket warranty (like I had on my last car), so I wouldn't have to worry about OOP expenses for repairs.

With that said, this conversation may end up being academic, since it could be too much car for me anyway. 600hp is a lot.

[xxTHIR13ENxx]

Well, I might have a little to say on this topic.

I think it's been well documented that I'm one of the few "brave" ones (stupid, really) to have pursued this car with a budget-daily mentality.

I take it you don't want something in pristine condition, otherwise you'd be a collector and not considering it as a daily. Correct me if I'm wrong, please. But if that's the case, you can find a good example on a relatively affordable budget (like my car, for instance - yes, shameless plug - PM me!), and save $ for the upcoming repairs, which are inevitable.

In my journey, I also made good friendships with various different shops: BMW specialists, suspension specialists, bodywork guys, you name it, "I have a guy". That network goes a long way if you don't mind non-dealers working on your car. I know that sounds scary on such a beast, but these guys have all worked on Ferraris, Lambos, etc. M6's were right up their alley. Just do your homework, of course, and don't mix-and-match. My tire guy is my tire/suspension guy. My engine guy is strictly that, and so on and so forth. They aren't the cheap shop down the street, but it's not premium dealer prices, either. A happy medium.

So with that said, you can buy an affordable example, connect with good quality shops, and save, save, save. One thing you'll find is that parts alone do cost a lot for this car in comparison to others, but then again, which car has a 16" caliper that weights close to a small village? No wonder we need the hp... (because I know someone will say CCB are lighter, please understand the point here is price-based). lol.

Next up was how to mod on a budget... We don't have time for that, but a fun process for sure.

With all that said, I do find myself going to the local grocery store with the wife's hatchback more so than the M6. Reason being it's just nimbler, easier to park, and I don't have to constantly stress about shopping carts all around it.

It's not the friendly's car to daily, but not the worst, either. The interior and luxury conveniences sure are great. I'm glad I did it, but now lifestyle has changed and need something more practical and family-friendly.

Wish you luck on whatever you decide to do.
But yeah, don't cheap out on gas...

- Leo.

[AronL]

Hey Leo!

Can't wait to come back tomorrow when my eyes aren't drooping from fatigue because I think you and I are on the same page.

I'm definitely not looking for pristine, but I am looking for nice. After all, a seven year old car that costs 45,000 should be pretty darned nice, right?

And are the calipers really that heavy? Insane!

[RagtagXMASTER]

I've had my m6 vert in the boston area for over 4 years now. car has treated me very well put about 50k miles on it as a summer daily. it is probably drivable in the winter with a good winter/snow setup, i know a few that have driven in the snow and it was fine for them, just don't get too crazy with the car.

I get about 16 mpg on the highway, the car is stage 2 dme, catless, with eventuri intakes and upgraded intercoolers if that matters. but that's what I get in 7th gear in sport plus, I never drive it in eco mode or sport.

The key to this car is keeping it cool and change the oil frequently with thicker oil. if you are not up for the maintenance on the car I would consider something else like the 640.

As for potholes and roads, you will be fine at stock ride height. I am lowered on KW HAS and have a lip and diffuser and have yet to hit anything with the current setup, but I have destroyed other lips with stock height. if you don't add anything to the nose though you will have 0 issues there, and the ride is comfortable in my opinion even when the roads get rather poor.

overall this has been the best car I have ever owned. coming from an older Audi, and a few trucks. this BMW has been fantastic. if you can DIY some basic car stuff like changing your own spark plugs, and coils packs, and do an oil change. your probably in the clear. the car is pretty easy to work on, and the parts are not really that expensive compared to some other car brands. I am not saying its cheap but it is not bad.

do not run low octane fuel, the car will knock badly if you get into boost.

overall the car is pretty good but if you are not comfortable with its potential flaws i would stay away.

[machareus]

I got Sottozero 3 winters for my F06 CP, ran 285/35-20 in the back and 245/40-20 in the front.

We got a few snow storms in the NYC area last winter. I had to drive during one of them and was already out somewhere when the snow started falling during another. In both cases the car did really well. I was driving exceedingly cautiously, but had next to no issues. In both instances I was driving in NJ on 45mph state highways or residential areas.

In one case I had some trouble switching lanes on a state highway with traffic lights. I was coming off a red light and was at / near the front so was able to manage by backing off the gas and throwing on the emergency blinkers to let traffic behind me know that I was having an issue. Took a couple moments but I got traction again. This was on mostly packed snow but there was snow still falling.

In the other case a 1/2 inch or so of snow had accumulated on previously clean roads while the car was parked on a residential street. No snow plows had come by yet. Had a bit of slippage driving uphill on that road, but with a steady right foot was able to maintain course and eventually got good traction again and had no further problems.

The Boston area probably gets more snow than NYC suburbs do. If you can avoid being out before the plows roll through you should have no problems with proper winter tires. If you're driving on fresh snow, my limited experience has been that cautious driving gets you where you need to go.

This winter I might purchase some sandbags to put in the trunk if I need to drive in the snow. I've seen some videos that show that traction in a RWD car is significantly improved with about 50lb in the trunk.

[AronL]

Originally Posted by machareus

I got Sottozero 3 winters for my F06 CP, ran 285/35-20 in the back and 245/40-20 in the front.

We got a few snow storms in the NYC area last winter. I had to drive during one of them and was already out somewhere when the snow started falling during another. In both cases the car did really well. I was driving exceedingly cautiously, but had next to no issues. In both instances I was driving in NJ on 45mph state highways or residential areas.

In one case I had some trouble switching lanes on a state highway with traffic lights. I was coming off a red light and was at / near the front so was able to manage by backing off the gas and throwing on the emergency blinkers to let traffic behind me know that I was having an issue. Took a couple moments but I got traction again. This was on mostly packed snow but there was snow still falling.

In the other case a 1/2 inch or so of snow had accumulated on previously clean roads while the car was parked on a residential street. No snow plows had come by yet. Had a bit of slippage driving uphill on that road, but with a steady right foot was able to maintain course and eventually got good traction again and had no further problems.

The Boston area probably gets more snow than NYC suburbs do. If you can avoid being out before the plows roll through you should have no problems with proper winter tires. If you're driving on fresh snow, my limited experience has been that cautious driving gets you where you need to go.

This winter I might purchase some sandbags to put in the trunk if I need to drive in the snow. I've seen some videos that show that traction in a RWD car is significantly improved with about 50lb in the trunk.

That's it. Hand in your keys and your BMWCCA membership card. Anyone who uses their blinkers is NOT allowed to drive a BMW.

Everyone knows that 😜

[danielgmanm6]

Originally Posted by AronL

I appreciate the response! I would always fill on high or mid-test, but I wanted to make sure on the off-chance I might HAVE to fill on regular, it wouldn't destroy my engine.


My aim would be to purchase an aftermarket warranty (like I had on my last car), so I wouldn't have to worry about OOP expenses for repairs.

With that said, this conversation may end up being academic, since it could be too much car for me anyway. 600hp is a lot.

I wouldn't daily this car. I know there are people that do but I definitely wouldn't. Also, like mentioned above if fuel costs are an issue for you don't even bother. In M mode you're looking at 8-11mpg lol. Even if you don't have major issues you will have minor problems come up. For example my car only has 18k miles the windows are acting up and ac blows warm. I have a warranty,.but any repair that you do not do yourself will probably start at $1000 lol Being diy is a huge plus if you like working on cars. I personally work too much and hate working on cars lmao. I would go for something better in the snow also. This car is horrible in the snow btw. I don't mean to sound negative because the m6 is my dream car but also need to be realistic. If you do get the m6, get a commuter you can daily.

[machareus]

Originally Posted by AronL

That's it. Hand in your keys and your BMWCCA membership card. Anyone who uses their blinkers is NOT allowed to drive a BMW.

Everyone knows that 😜

you're right, I'm resigning the forums

[machareus]

Originally Posted by danielgmanm6

In M mode you're looking at 8-11mpg lol.

I consistently get 13-14 driving in Sport+ pretty much all the time. I don't do much highway driving.

The few long-ish trips I've taken on the highway I have been able to consistently stay in the 18-25 range.

[tab]

Originally Posted by machareus

I consistently get 13-14 driving in Sport+ pretty much all the time. I don't do much highway driving.

The few long-ish trips I've taken on the highway I have been able to consistently stay in the 18-25 range.

I have driven mine daily since October 2015 when new. 61,000 miles after 7 years. I put Sottozeros on it now (my Nokians had better grip but terrible handling, and Chicago doesn't actually get that much snow), right now 295/ 265s. That 13-15 is about right in the city. I love my car, haven't had any maintenance trouble. Just regular maintenance, got some fresh brakes I think right before my 4 years free ran out. I love highway runs, but they are rare.

I mean, I'm biased but I love this as a daily driver. It isn't fragile. But I know when it needs new brakes or anything like that, I'll have to get out the checkbook. I haven't had any engine issues.

[AronL]

@Tab

That is very reassuring! Thank you for letting me know.

Obviously since my financial planning practice has gone digital, I don't drive anywhere near what I used to, as I essentially have no daily commute anymore and I rarely have to drive to see clients in person (thank goodness!).

That's why I'm thinking a truly extravagant car like an M6 might actually be feasible.

And since I'm stupidly trying to rationalize extravagant purchases, I'm now considering an M6 cabriolet! (My five speed 1987 325i cabrio -- with a 325iS rear end -- was my all-time favorite car, and having a drop top certainly didn't hurt. But definitely not a good car for a college boy. Sure do wish I could get an E30 today for the $5000 my dad paid when he bought it for me back in 2006, though. This time I would know not to ride the damned clutch...)

[AronL]

Originally Posted by RagtagXMASTER

I've had my m6 vert in the boston area for over 4 years now. car has treated me very well put about 50k miles on it as a summer daily. it is probably drivable in the winter with a good winter/snow setup, i know a few that have driven in the snow and it was fine for them, just don't get too crazy with the car.

I get about 16 mpg on the highway, the car is stage 2 dme, catless, with eventuri intakes and upgraded intercoolers if that matters. but that's what I get in 7th gear in sport plus, I never drive it in eco mode or sport.

The key to this car is keeping it cool and change the oil frequently with thicker oil. if you are not up for the maintenance on the car I would consider something else like the 640.

As for potholes and roads, you will be fine at stock ride height. I am lowered on KW HAS and have a lip and diffuser and have yet to hit anything with the current setup, but I have destroyed other lips with stock height. if you don't add anything to the nose though you will have 0 issues there, and the ride is comfortable in my opinion even when the roads get rather poor.

overall this has been the best car I have ever owned. coming from an older Audi, and a few trucks. this BMW has been fantastic. if you can DIY some basic car stuff like changing your own spark plugs, and coils packs, and do an oil change. your probably in the clear. the car is pretty easy to work on, and the parts are not really that expensive compared to some other car brands. I am not saying its cheap but it is not bad.

do not run low octane fuel, the car will knock badly if you get into boost.

overall the car is pretty good but if you are not comfortable with its potential flaws i would stay away.

I'm now considering a cabrio instead of the gran coupe, so my question for you is how is the soft top in the winter? It the insulation good enough that I won't be freezing during the cold weather?

In addition, since I doubt I'll be able to garage the car, do you think the top would be alright in the snow? I would very likely get a car cover for when we're expecting a storm, but being in Massachusetts, sometimes they sneak up on you.

Thanks!

[BMWRog]

I've had my 'vert for nearly 7 years, although mine is garaged when not in use. I believe the hood is triple layer, so there's plenty of insulation there. The M6 heater is pretty efficient, so I can't see you'll ever be cold in the car once the engine has reached working temperature. Don't put the top down on freezing cold days unless you know the roof material is completely bone dry! You can fold the roof away when it's wet, but don't leave it like that for more than about a day, otherwise mould can develop and creases will be difficult to remove.

[RagtagXMASTER]

Originally Posted by AronL

I'm now considering a cabrio instead of the gran coupe, so my question for you is how is the soft top in the winter? It the insulation good enough that I won't be freezing during the cold weather?

In addition, since I doubt I'll be able to garage the car, do you think the top would be alright in the snow? I would very likely get a car cover for when we're expecting a storm, but being in Massachusetts, sometimes they sneak up on you.

Thanks!

The soft top is well insulated so dont worry too much about that. I would say the best feature is lowering the rear window. It allows a small amount if air flow and allows you to really hear the car. I dont think the car allows you to operate the top under 30 degrees so it wont break anything if its frozen. But i agree do not store the top for longer than a whole day. It develops some ugly wrinkles. Ive had mine covered in snow for a while and nothing bad or negative happened. He top material is very good. I highly recommend that you have it ceramic coated or hydro coated to repel water more though if you are going to leave it outside full time