Engine Code

BMW S63B44B engine (2010-2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The BMW S63 B44 B is a 4,395 cc, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. Developed as a high-performance variant of the N63, it features a DOHC 32-valve configuration with Valvetronic and Double-VANOS variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 331 kW (450 PS), with torque output of 600 Nm, designed for high-speed performance and track-focused dynamics.

Fitted to models such as the F10 M5, F12 M6, and F06 M6 Gran Coupe, the S63 B44 B was engineered for maximum power delivery and rapid throttle response. It replaced the naturally aspirated S85 V10 in BMW's M lineup, offering improved torque and drivability while retaining high-RPM character. Emissions compliance was achieved through precision fuel injection, secondary air injection, and advanced engine management, meeting Euro 5 standards across all markets.

One documented update is the transition from the S63 to the S63 B44 B, finalized in 2012 for the F10 M5 LCI. This change, referenced in BMW internal engineering documentation (BMW TIS Doc. A63B44), involved revised turbocharger housings, upgraded intercoolers, and enhanced cooling circuits. These modifications improved thermal management and reduced turbo lag, making the B44 B variant more reliable and responsive than early S63 units.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2012 meet Euro 5 standards; 2013–2018 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).

S63B44B Technical Specifications

The BMW S63 B44 B is a 4,395 cc twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2010–2018). It combines Valvetronic throttle-less load control with twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver rapid power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions, it prioritizes track-ready performance with refined drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement4,395 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV8, DOHC, 32-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged
Bore × stroke92.0 mm × 82.7 mm
Power output331 kW (450 PS) @ 6,000–7,200 rpm
Torque600 Nm @ 1,500–5,750 rpm
Fuel systemDirect injection (Bosch HDEV5) with port injection supplement
Emissions standardEuro 6 (post-2013)
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled (dual-circuit)
TurbochargerTwin-scroll, low-inertia turbochargers (IHI)
Timing systemChain-driven (double-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeBMW Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight215 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-turbo V8 layout with Valvetronic provides exceptional throttle response and broad torque delivery ideal for high-performance driving but demands meticulous maintenance to sustain performance. BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is critical due to turbocharger and high-RPM operation. Oil changes should occur every 10,000 km or annually to prevent carbon buildup and bearing wear. The Bosch HDEV5 direct injection system requires regular fuel system cleaning to prevent intake valve coking. Turbocharger reliability depends on proper cooldown procedures and coolant health. Valve train inspection per BMW TIS A63VALVE is recommended every 60,000 km to detect early wear.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires BMW Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (BMW Service Bulletin 11 05 12). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to post-2013 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901). Pre-2013 units meet Euro 5 standards.

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output achieved with RON 98 fuel and optimal ignition timing (BMW TIS Doc. A63PERF).

Primary Sources

BMW Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A63B44, A63TURBO, A63TIMING, A63VALVE

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)

SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard

S63B44B Compatible Models

The BMW S63 B44 B was used across BMW's F10, F12, and F06 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the F10 M5 and modified cooling circuits in the F12 M6-and from 2012 the updated F10 LCI models adopted the B44 B variant with improved turbo housings, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
BMW
Years:
2011-2017
Models:
M5 (F10)
Variants:
M5, M5 Competition
View Source
BMW Group PT-2021
Make:
BMW
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
M6 (F12/F13/F06)
Variants:
M6 Coupe, M6 Convertible, M6 Gran Coupe
View Source
BMW Group PT-2021
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (BMW TIS A63ID01). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for S63 series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with exposed turbo plumbing; the S63 B44 B features black valve covers and enclosed intercooler ducting. Critical differentiation from early S63: B44 B has revised turbocharger housings, upgraded intercoolers, and dual-circuit cooling. Service parts require model-year verification—turbo assemblies, intercoolers, and engine covers are not interchangeable between pre-LCI and LCI variants (BMW TIS A63B44).

Identification Details

Evidence:

BMW TIS Doc. A63ID01

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (BMW TIS A63ID01).

Visual Cues:

  • S63 B44 B features black valve covers and enclosed intercooler ducting compared to early S63.
  • Turbochargers are mounted internally within the 'V' of the engine with revised housings.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

BMW TIS Doc. A63B44

Turbochargers:

The S63 B44 B uses upgraded IHI twin-scroll turbochargers incompatible with early S63 due to housing and actuator differences.

Intercoolers & Cooling:

Intercoolers and coolant circuits are redesigned; mixing components risks overheating and performance loss.
High-Performance Maintenance

Evidence:

BMW SIB 11 05 12

Valve Train:

Valve clearances should be inspected every 60,000 km; Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensors are prone to wear (BMW SIB 11 05 12).

Turbo & Cooling:

Inspect turbochargers and coolant circuits for leaks or degradation; ensure proper cooldown after high-RPM use.

Common Reliability Issues - BMW S63B44B

The S63 B44 B's primary reliability risk is turbocharger degradation on high-mileage engines, with elevated incidence in track-driven applications. Internal BMW engineering reports noted increased bearing wear and actuator failure beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA historic vehicle data shows a notable share of emissions failures linked to boost control faults. Extended high-load operation and delayed maintenance increase thermal stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Turbocharger failure (bearings, actuators)
Symptoms: Whining noise under load, loss of boost, check engine light with boost control codes, oil leaks from turbo seals.
Cause: High exhaust temperatures and oil coking in turbo bearings due to extended high-RPM operation and delayed oil changes.
Fix: Replace turbocharger assembly with latest OEM-specified unit; inspect oil feed/return lines and ECU adaptation for boost control.
Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensor wear
Symptoms: Rough idle, engine hesitation, reduced power, check engine light with Valvetronic fault codes.
Cause: Mechanical wear in the Valvetronic eccentric shaft mechanism due to carbon buildup and oil contamination.
Fix: Replace Valvetronic unit and sensor per OEM procedure; clean oil passages and verify system calibration via diagnostics.
High-pressure fuel pump (HDEV5) failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, misfires, stalling, lean fuel trim codes, reduced power.
Cause: Premature wear in the Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure fuel pump due to fuel quality and thermal stress.
Fix: Replace high-pressure fuel pump with updated OEM part; inspect fuel lines and low-pressure pump operation.
Coolant leaks from expansion tank or hoses
Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, stored coolant temperature codes.
Cause: Age-related cracking in plastic expansion tank and rubber hoses under sustained high engine temperatures.
Fix: Replace expansion tank and coolant hoses with revised OEM parts; perform system pressure test and bleed air from cooling circuit.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from BMW technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA historic vehicle failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about BMW S63B44B

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about BMW S63B44B.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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