Engines · BMW
BMW N62 V8 common problems
The N62 is a naturally aspirated petrol V8 in 3.6, 4.0, 4.4 and 4.8 litre sizes, built from 2001 to 2010 and the first V8 with BMW's Valvetronic variable valve lift. It replaced the M62, was replaced by the twin-turbo N63, and powered BMW's large V8 saloons, coupés and the X5. In good condition it is a smooth, strong engine.
Common problems and what to look for on the N62
The known issues most worth checking when you view a car with this engine. None of them means a car is a bad buy, but they're worth knowing about before you buy, and a good history often shows they've been dealt with.
Worn valve stem seals: smoke and oil use
What to look for: Start the engine from cold and watch the exhaust for a puff of blue-white smoke. On the test drive, let the car idle for a minute, then accelerate and look in the mirror for smoke. Ask how much oil it uses between services, and whether the valve stem seals have been replaced.
Why it matters: The rubber seals on the valve stems harden and crack with age and heat, letting oil into the cylinders. The result is smoke after standing or idling and rising oil use. Specialists now replace the seals with special tools that avoid removing the cylinder heads. A car with this job on file is in a good position.
Alternator bracket oil leak
What to look for: Use a torch to look low down at the front of the engine, around and below the alternator, and under the car. An engine that looks generally oily or sweaty at the front, or drips on the ground, points to this leak.
Why it matters: The alloy alternator bracket sits between the engine block and the oil cooler pipes, and its rubber seal hardens with age. The gasket is a small part, but reaching it takes several hours. It is one of the most common N62 leaks, and many cars have had it done.
Coolant transfer pipe leak
What to look for: Check the coolant level and ask whether the owner tops it up. Look for coolant drips or dried crust at the front of the engine near the water pump, and for a low coolant warning on the dashboard.
Why it matters: A coolant pipe runs through the valley between the cylinder banks, under the intake, and its rubber seals fail with age. A coolant drip from the water pump area is often this pipe rather than the pump. The factory repair is a very big job, but specialists now use repair pipes that can be fitted with far less dismantling. An invoice for this work is a strong plus.
More known issues, covered in the full guide for each car
- Rocker cover gasket leaks
Cars with the N62
- BMW 5 Series E60/E61: 540i, 545i and 550i
- BMW 6 Series E63/E64: 645Ci and 650i
- BMW 7 Series E65/E66: 735i, 745i, 740i and 750i
- BMW X5 E53: 4.4i from the 2003 facelift, and 4.8is
- BMW X5 E70: 4.8i, to 2010
A pre-purchase inspection guide for your car
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General points for the engine, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with any manufacturer.