Vehicle operation and maintenance constitute essential aspects of managing the operation, upkeep, and repair of vehicles, which are integral to modern society as a primary mode of transportation. In the context of urban rail transit, the significance of vehicle operation and maintenance cannot be overstated. This article endeavors to establish an intelligent operation and maintenance system for urban rail transit vehicles, utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT) with 5G technology as a key enabler. The emergence of fifth-generation (5G) network technology, as a product of the current internet era, has garnered considerable attention. As highlighted by Chettri Lalit in previous research, 5G holds the potential to play a pivotal role in advancing the IoT. The potent capabilities of 5G are widely acknowledged, with experts like Dolgui Alexandre emphasizing its ability to deliver end-to-end real-time connectivity at an exceptionally refined level, facilitating comprehensive visibility throughout the IoT ecosystem. 5G technology has found applications in diverse areas, including the enhancement of video capabilities in 5G base stations, as explored by Xiao M L, and its potential for mobile augmented reality applications, as suggested by Siriwardhana Yushan. Furthermore, the power Internet of Things stands as a prominent domain poised to benefit from the integration of 5G, as proposed by Tao J S and reinforced by Mao S Q, who recognized the importance of 5G in addressing the growing computational demands of the power Internet of Things. The extensive research conducted by these scholars collectively underscores the versatility and potential of 5G technology in various contexts, establishing its relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of the Internet of Things.