The BMW M62 B35 (358S2) is a 3,498 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features DOHC, 32-valve configuration with individual throttle bodies and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection. Rated at 170 kW (231 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, this engine delivers smooth, linear power delivery ideal for grand touring applications.
Fitted primarily to the E39 5 Series and E38 7 Series, the M62 B35 was engineered for refined performance and driver comfort in BMW's luxury lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through a dual three-way catalytic converter system, meeting Euro 2 standards across its production run. Its aluminum block and compact V8 architecture provided weight savings and smooth operation.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain guides, particularly in early production units before 1998. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 05 97, is attributed to brittle plastic material used in the guide rails. In 1998, BMW revised the guide design using reinforced nylon, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The BMW M62 B35 (358S2) is a 3,498 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury sedans (1996–2001). It combines dual overhead camshafts with individual throttle bodies to deliver smooth, high-revving performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances refinement with strong mid-range power for effortless cruising.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 78.9 mm | |
| Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 5W-30 or 10W-60) | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain guide wear. BMW Longlife-98 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the chain tensioner. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-1998 engines with original-spec guides. The Bosch Motronic 4.4 ECU is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; maintaining intake integrity prevents drivability issues. Post-1998 models feature revised chain guides made from reinforced nylon per BMW SIB 11 05 97, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 specification (BMW SIB 11 05 97). ACEA A2/B2 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1996–2001) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A28100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A28100, A28150, A28200, SIB 11 05 97
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M62 B35 (358S2) was used across BMW's E38/E39 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the E38 and shorter accessory drives in the E39-and from 1999 the facelifted E39 LCI adopted the M62TU variant with revised cylinder head and VANOS, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A28200). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M62 series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with "M62" branding; post-1998 M62TU units use black valve covers with "M62TU" marking. Critical differentiation from M54: M62 B35 is a V8 with individual throttle bodies. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain guides for engines before 08/1998 are incompatible with later units due to material redesign (BMW SIB 11 05 97).
The M62 B35's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 1998 noted a significant share of pre-1998 engines requiring guide replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase chain stress, making oil quality and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1996-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2006). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M62B35-S2.
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