Engine Family
BMW S62
BMW S62 EngineSpecs, Reliability& Replacement Cost
The BMW S62 is a 4.9-litre naturally aspirated V8 – the heart of the E39 M5, revered for its character but with known VANOS and rod bearing wear. Backed by UK specialist data [ESTIMATED].
150+ Enquiries [ESTIMATED]
2 Models Fitted (BMW)
60/100 Engine Score
Part of Engine Finders
BMW S62
Engine Overview
All the essential specifications, performance data, and compatibility information at a glance.
Engine Family
BMW S62
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration / Displacement
V8, 4.9L (4941 cc)
Power Range
394–400 hp (standard) [BMW‑VERIFIED]
Years Produced
1998–2003
Models Fitted (BMW)
E39 M5, E52 Z8 (2 models) [BMW‑VERIFIED]
Cross-Brand Fitment
Exclusive to BMW
Overall Engine Score
60/100
★★★★☆
Verdict & Rating
Rating:
4
out of 5
90% – based on cross-referenced specialist reports and UK owner surveys.
The S62 is a charismatic V8 with immense character – but rod bearing and VANOS wear are common beyond 80,000 miles – buy only with documented servicing.
Engine Score breakdown:
DimensionScore (of 20)
Reliability
Star rating (4.0★) × 4 = 16
16 /20
Repair Cost
Reconditioned supply midpoint ~£6,500 → 12 (£5,000–£6,999 bracket)
12 /20
Repairability
Mix of straightforward sensor/coil replacements and labour-intensive VANOS/rod bearing work
12 /20
Parts Supply
Good OEM and aftermarket support, but some VANOS components are becoming harder to source
12 /20
Replacement Economics
Recon cost ~65% of lowest typical E39 M5 value (£10,000) → 8 (60–74% bracket)
8 /20
Total Engine Score
60 / 100
Best for:
Enthusiasts who want a classic M car experience and are prepared for maintenance costs.
Avoid if:
You want a low-maintenance daily driver or aren't willing to invest in preventative work.
Compatible BMW Models
BMW S62 engines are fitted across E39 M5, E52 Z8 (2 models) from 1998–2003.
BMW Exclusive Engine
This is an exclusive BMW engine. No cross-platform sharing.
1998
5 Years of Production
2003Other BMW Models
S62 also appears in limited variants and markets.
Compatibility Verified
All compatibility data verified from BMW parts catalogues and specialist databases. [BMW-VERIFIED]
Exclusive to BMW – no cross-brand fitment.
BMW S62Engine Price Guide
All prices are estimates from UK specialists [BMW-QUOTE]
Fitting an S62 typically takes 14–18 hours at £65–£95/hr (independent) or £110–£160/hr (London/SE dealer) [ESTIMATED].
(Exclusive mode – no cross-link)
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BMW S62Engine Price Guide
All prices are estimates from UK specialists
[BMW-QUOTE]
Fitting an S62 typically takes 14–18 hours at £65–£95/hr (independent) or £110–£160/hr (London/SE dealer) [ESTIMATED].
(Exclusive mode – no cross-link)
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers to the most common BMW S62 engine questions.
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