What are the symptoms of S65 throttle actuator failure?

Common symptoms include intermittent limp mode, DSC and EML lights, rough idle, hesitation under load, and stored actuator fault codes in the ECU.

Can I drive with a failed throttle actuator?

It’s not recommended. A failed actuator can cause dangerous loss of power and potential engine damage over time. Prompt replacement is best.

How much does it cost to replace both throttle actuators?

At Element Performance, we replace both throttle actuators with rebuilt, lifetime warranty units for £900 including VAT, labour, and full coding.

Does the BMW S85 engine have the same issue?

Yes. The V10 S85 found in the M5 and M6 suffers from the exact same throttle actuator failure due to worn internal gears and electronics.

Is it better to rebuild or buy new BMW throttle actuators?

Genuine new actuators are expensive and still contain the same flaw. Our rebuilt units solve the failure point and include a lifetime warranty, making them the best long-term option.

Do throttle actuators need coding?

Yes, they must be programmed to your vehicle using specialist BMW diagnostic tools. We handle full coding and setup in-house.

BMW S65 & S85 Throttle Actuator Failure – What Every M Car Owner Needs to Know

12 Sept

Written By Marijke booth

If you own a BMW E90/E92 M3 with the S65 engine or the E60 M5/E63 M6 with the legendary S85 V10, you’ve likely heard of throttle actuator failure. It’s one of the most common — and frustrating — problems affecting these M engines.

What Are Throttle Actuators and Why Do They Fail?

The S65 and S85 engines use independent throttle actuators to control airflow to the cylinders. These components are part of BMW’s advanced drive-by-wire system and are critical to how your M car performs.

Unfortunately, both engines suffer from the same fundamental flaw: the internal gears and electronic components in the actuators wear out over time. This leads to common symptoms such as:

Engine warning lights (DSC, EML, check engine)
Reduced power or "limp mode"
Hesitation under throttle
Inconsistent performance, especially under load

Actuator failure is not just annoying — it can render the car unpredictable and undriveable.

Why This Happens

The actuators fail due to a mix of heat cycling, worn plastic gears, and degrading internal circuit boards. In S65 V8 and S85 V10 engines, these stresses are magnified due to high revving and the unique design of the throttle system, which uses one actuator per bank.

Failure can happen anywhere from 40,000 miles upwards, and once one actuator fails, the other is usually not far behind.

Our Solution: Rebuilt Actuators with Lifetime Warranty

At Element Performance, we only fit rebuilt throttle actuators that permanently solve the original design flaw. These units feature upgraded components and offer peace of mind with a lifetime warranty.

✅ Both actuators replaced
✅ Fully rebuilt units with upgraded internals
✅ Supplied and fitted for just £900 including VAT and labour
✅ Fast turnaround — Same-day fitting available

This service is suitable for:

BMW E90, E92, E93 M3 (S65)
BMW E60, E61 M5 and E63, E64 M6 (S85)

Why Choose Element Performance?

We are specialists in high-performance BMWs, and our experience with the S65 and S85 engines means we know exactly what to look for. You won’t be upsold on unnecessary diagnostics or OEM parts that will fail again.

If you’re experiencing throttle actuator symptoms — or just want peace of mind — contact us today to get your M car sorted once and for all.

📞 01845 600105
📍 Element House, Thirsk Industrial Park, YO7 3BX

Made by BMW. Perfected by us.

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