The BMW N62 B48 A is a 4,799 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2010. It features DOHC, 32-valve configuration with Valvetronic II variable valve lift and double-VANOS variable valve timing. Rated at 273 kW (372 PS) and 490 Nm of torque, this engine delivers smooth, linear power delivery ideal for executive and performance applications.
Fitted primarily to the E65 7 Series and E63 6 Series, the N62 B48 A was engineered for refined driving dynamics and responsive performance in BMW's flagship lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection system, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run. Its all-aluminum construction and Valvetronic technology provided precise throttle control and reduced pumping losses.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units before 2007. This issue, referenced in BMW Service Information Bulletin 11 03 05, is attributed to inadequate oil pressure delivery to the chain tensioner piston during cold starts. In 2007, BMW revised the oil gallery design, significantly reducing failure rates in later models.
Production years 2003–2010 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6248).
The BMW N62 B48 A is a 4,799 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (2003–2010). It combines DOHC architecture with Valvetronic II variable valve lift and double-VANOS to deliver linear throttle response and improved efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances refinement with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 273 kW (372 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 490 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | BMW Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The naturally aspirated V8 delivers smooth, responsive performance ideal for everyday driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. BMW Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and protection for the upper chain guide. Extended idling or short-trip driving accelerates wear in pre-2007 engines with original-spec tensioners. The Bosch ME 7.2 ECU is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; maintaining intake integrity prevents drivability issues. Post-2007 models feature revised oil galleries per BMW SIB 11 03 05, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-01 specification (BMW SIB 11 03 05). ACEA A3/B4 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models (2003–2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6248).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (BMW TIS Doc. A36100).
BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A36100, A36140, A36200, SIB 11 03 05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6248)
DIN 70020:2004 Internal Combustion Engine Power Measurement
The BMW N62 B48 A was used across BMW's E65/E63 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the E65 and shorter accessory drives in the E63-and from 2008 the facelifted E65 LCI adopted the N62TU variant with revised cylinder head and updated fuel injection, 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 A36200). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for N62 series). Pre-2007 models have silver valve covers with "N62" branding; post-2007 units use black valve covers with "N62" marking. Critical differentiation from N63: N62 B48 A uses port fuel injection and Valvetronic II; N63 uses direct injection and revised cylinder head. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 08/2007 are incompatible with later units due to oil gallery redesign (BMW SIB 11 03 05).
The N62 B48 A's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal BMW quality reports from 2007 noted a significant share of pre-2007 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 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 (2003-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2007-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW N62B48A.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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