Models · BMW
BMW 6 Series E63/E64 buying guide
The E63 coupé and E64 convertible 6 Series were built from 2003 to 2010, with straight-six and V8 petrol engines and a six-cylinder diesel. The M6 is covered separately.
The versions
- 630i: 3.0 petrol straight six (N52, later N53 in some markets)
- 645Ci (N62 4.4 V8, 333PS), replaced by the 650i (N62 4.8 V8, 367PS) from 2006
- 635d: 3.0 twin-turbo diesel straight six, 286PS, from 2007
- Coupé (E63) and convertible (E64) with a fabric roof
- 6-speed manual, 6-speed ZF automatic, or the rarer 6-speed SMG automated manual on petrol cars
What to check on a E63 6 Series
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Blue smoke on the V8s
What to look for: On a 645Ci or 650i, watch the exhaust on start-up, especially after the car has been sitting, and when accelerating after idling.
Why it matters: Worn valve stem seals on the N62 V8 let oil into the cylinders, causing blue smoke. The repair is involved, but well known to specialists.
Oil leaks on the V8s
What to look for: With a torch, look at the front of the V8 under the alternator, and around the rocker covers, for wet oil.
Why it matters: The alternator bracket seal and rocker cover gaskets harden and leak on the N62. Both are known repairs.
Coolant leaks at the front of the V8
What to look for: Look for coolant drips or residue around the water pump area at the front of the engine.
Why it matters: A coolant drip near the water pump is often the alloy coolant transfer pipe behind it, not the pump itself. Repair kits exist.
Also in the full guide
- SMG gearbox
- Convertible roof and water leaks
- Active steering
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the E63 6 Series
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, 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 BMW.