The BMW M62 B44 is a 4,398 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It featured dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve configuration, and individual throttle bodies, delivering 210 kW (286 PS) and 440 Nm of torque for high-performance luxury applications. This engine used advanced electronic throttle control (Drive-by-Wire) and single VANOS variable valve timing for improved responsiveness.
Fitted to flagship models including the E38 7 Series and E31 8 Series, the M62 B44 was engineered for effortless power delivery and grand touring refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalytic converters and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature intake manifold runner actuator (IMRA) failure, which could result in rough idle and reduced low-end torque. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 05 98, is attributed to vacuum diaphragm degradation and mechanical wear. In 1998, BMW introduced revised actuator materials and updated vacuum hose routing to improve durability.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The BMW M62 B44 is a 4,398 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury platforms (1996–2001). It combines a 32-valve DOHC layout with individual throttle bodies and single VANOS to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and high-RPM responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with refinement in BMW's top-tier vehicles.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,398 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 210 kW (286 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multipoint fuel injection (SME) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-98 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The M62 B44 provides smooth, high-torque performance ideal for grand touring but requires strict adherence to coolant and oil maintenance schedules to prevent IMRA and VANOS system degradation. BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and protection for the DOHC valvetrain. Coolant should be replaced every 2 years using G48 specification to maintain flow through the aluminium block and heads. The individual throttle bodies demand periodic synchronization via diagnostic tools to preserve throttle response. Post-1998 models with revised actuators show significantly improved durability; pre-1998 units should verify actuator condition and consider preventative upgrades per BMW SIB 11 05 98.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-98 (10W-40) specification (BMW SIB 11 05 98). Supersedes ACEA A2-97 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all M62 B44 models (1996–2001) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A27810, A27811, A27812, SIB 11 05 98
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW M62 B44 was used across BMW's E38/E31 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the E38 and revised intake manifolds in the E31-and from 1998 the updated intake manifold runner actuator with improved diaphragm materials, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left side of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A27810). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for M62 series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with "M62" branding; post-1998 units use black valve covers with "M62B44" designation. Critical differentiation from M62TÜ: Original M62 B44 lacks secondary air injection system; M62TÜ includes air pump for emissions. Service parts require casting verification - intake manifold actuators before 09/1998 are incompatible with later revisions due to diaphragm redesign (BMW SIB 11 05 98).
The M62 B44's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner actuator (IMRA) failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal BMW field reports from 1999 indicated a significant number of pre-1998 units required actuator replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show vacuum system neglect as a top cause of driveability complaints in E38/E31 petrol models. Extended service intervals and use of incorrect coolant increase thermal stress, making system inspection and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (1996-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW M62B44-S2.
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