The BMW N62 B44 A is a 4,398 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features DOHC, 32-valve configuration, and BMW's Valvetronic II variable valve lift system, delivering 225 kW (306 PS) and 440 Nm of torque. Its smooth power delivery and high-RPM capability provide a refined driving experience typical of BMW's luxury performance philosophy.
Fitted to the E65 7 Series, E60 5 Series, and E53 X5, the N62 B44 A was engineered for effortless acceleration and silent cruising in flagship and SUV applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 4 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain guides, particularly on units produced before 2005, due to material degradation under thermal cycling. This issue, highlighted in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 02 10, can lead to chain slack and potential valve/piston contact. In 2005, BMW introduced revised nylon-reinforced guides with improved heat resistance to enhance durability.
All production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4569).
The BMW N62 B44 A is a 4,398 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for luxury and SUV platforms (2003–2008). It combines Valvetronic II variable valve lift with dual overhead camshafts to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,398 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 82.7 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3,600–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.2 sequential port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Valvetronic II system provides precise throttle control and improved fuel efficiency but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain longevity and sensor function. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection under high-RPM operation. Carbon buildup on the Valvetronic eccentric shaft can cause erratic sensor readings; periodic inspection and cleaning are recommended. The Motronic ME7.2 system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks, which can disrupt idle stability. Regular inspection of DISA valve and crankcase ventilation system is advised to maintain performance and prevent oil consumption.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (BMW SIB 11 03 07). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4569).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228.
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A26000, A26030, SIB 11 02 10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4569)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N62 B44 A was used across BMW's E65, E60, and E53 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated Valvetronic on all units-and from 2008 the facelifted E65 LCI adopted the N62B48 variant with increased displacement, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (BMW TIS A26090). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N62 series). All N62 B44 A units have silver valve covers with "N62" and "Valvetronic" branding. Critical differentiation from N62B48: Original N62 B44 A uses Motronic ME7.2 ECU with Valvetronic II, while N62B48 features revised intake and higher displacement. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain guides before 06/2005 are prone to failure and should be replaced with post-revision units per BMW SIB 11 02 10.
The N62 B44 A's primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear on pre-2005 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature operation. Internal BMW reports from 2004 indicated a significant number of pre-2005 units requiring chain replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show drivability-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2003–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2009–2014). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N62B44A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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