The BMW N62B36A is a 3,600 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Valvetronic II variable valve lift, and electronic throttle control, delivering smooth power delivery and refined performance. In standard tune it produced 200 kW (272 PS) with 360 Nm of torque, emphasizing linear throttle response and luxury driving dynamics.
Fitted to models such as the E65 735i, E60 535i, and E53 X5 3.6i, the N62B36A was engineered for executive comfort and effortless acceleration. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise air-fuel metering and oxygen sensing, allowing all units to meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8893).
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump wear, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 13 09 07. This issue is linked to fuel quality and extended service intervals. In 2007, BMW introduced a revised pump calibration and updated cooling routing to improve durability, marking a key transition before the N62B40A's release.
All production years (2005–2008) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8893).
The BMW N62B36A is a 3,600 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for luxury and executive models (2005–2008). It combines Valvetronic II variable valve lift with DOHC architecture to deliver refined throttle response and strong mid-range power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances smooth performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,600 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 200 kW (272 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 3,500–4,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection with Valvetronic II | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 202 kg |
The Valvetronic II system enables precise air intake control without a throttle butterfly, improving fuel efficiency and throttle response. However, it requires strict adherence to 24-month/15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent cam follower wear and maintain Valvetronic actuator function. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific additive package protecting variable valve components. Fuel quality is critical—low-sulfur petrol meeting EN 228 standards prevents fuel system deposits. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to contamination; use of OEM-specified fuel filters and timely replacements per SIB 13 09 07 minimizes failure risk. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW Service Manual 11 50 7 842 323). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all N62B36A models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8893).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 200 kW output requires 98 RON fuel (BMW TIS Doc. A25108).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A25108, A25132, SIB 13 09 07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8893)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The BMW N62B36A was used across BMW's E5x/E6x platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the E53 and revised cooling routing in the E65-and from 2007 the facelifted E60 LCI models adopted updated Valvetronic calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (BMW TIS A25100). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for N62 series). Pre-2007 models have silver valve covers with green gasket seals; post-2007 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from N62B40: Original N62B36A has Siemens MS47 ECU with 80-pin connector, while N62B40 uses MSV80 with 100-pin. Service parts require production date verification—Valvetronic components before 09/2006 are incompatible with later revisions due to actuator redesign (BMW SIB 11 07 06).
The N62B36A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal BMW quality reports from 2008 indicated a significant share of pre-2007 engines required pump replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Extended service intervals and low fuel quality increase pump stress, making filter maintenance and fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2005–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N62B36A.
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