BMW built the M62B46 from 2001 to 2003. It is a 4.6 L naturally aspirated petrol V8 with 347 hp and 480 Nm, part of the M62 family. You will find it in the BMW E53 X5 4.6is and BMW E53 X5.
This guide is about the M62B46 specifically: its specification, the cars that use it, how it differs from the other M62 versions, what to check, prices from our stock and fitment answers for each model. For the history of the whole family, read our M62 guide.
- Capacity and layout: 4.6 L, V8, naturally aspirated
- Output: 347 hp and 480 Nm
- Production: 2001–2003
- Fitted to: 2 models across 1 chassis generation
- In our stock: ask the desk for the next arrival
M62B46 specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine code | M62B46 |
| Family | M62 |
| Capacity | 4.6 L |
| Layout | V8 |
| Fuel | Petrol |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 347 hp |
| Torque | 480 Nm |
| Specific output | 75 hp per litre |
| Production | 2001–2003 |
| Models | 2 |
Built from 2001 to 2003, the M62B46 displaces 4.6 L in a V8 layout and is naturally aspirated. It produces 347 hp and 480 Nm on petrol. That is about 75 hp and 104 Nm per litre, a strong figure for a road engine of its era. Within the M62 family, it is the most powerful version, while the M62B35 (235 hp), M62B44 (286 hp) and M62TUB44 (286 hp) are milder. It was fitted to the BMW E53 X5 4.6is and BMW E53 X5.
What the code M62B46 means
- M marks an M-series code, the naming BMW used for its engine families up to the early 2000s.
- 62 is the family number.
- B stands for petrol (from the German Benzin).
- 46 is the capacity in decilitres, so 4.6 litres.
Which BMW models use the M62B46
| Model | Generation | Built |
|---|---|---|
| BMW E53 X5 4.6is | first X5 | 1999–2006 |
| BMW E53 X5 | first X5 | 1999–2006 |
In the E53 first X5 (1999–2006), the M62B46 powered the X5 4.6is and X5. Engines from other models fit the E53 as long as the sump, mounts and ancillaries match, which we check against your VIN. All E53 engines
M62B46 compared with other M62 versions
| Code | Capacity | Power | Torque | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M62B35 | 3.5 L | 235 hp | 320 Nm | 1996–2003 |
| M62B44 | 4.4 L | 286 hp | 420 Nm | 1996–2003 |
| M62TUB44 | 4.4 L | 286 hp | 440 Nm | 1998–2005 |
| M62B46 | 4.6 L | 347 hp | 480 Nm | 2001–2003 |
M62B46 or M62TUB44?
The M62TUB44 has 61 hp less than the M62B46 (286 against 347 hp), from 4.4 L instead of 4.6 L, and was built 1998–2005. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
M62B46 or M62B44?
The M62B44 has 61 hp less than the M62B46 (286 against 347 hp), from 4.4 L instead of 4.6 L, and was built 1996–2003. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
M62B46 or M62B35?
The M62B35 has 112 hp less than the M62B46 (235 against 347 hp), from 3.5 L instead of 4.6 L, and was built 1996–2003. A different capacity means a different crankshaft, pistons or head, and different software. It can be fitted as an upgrade with the matching engine control unit and wiring, but it is a conversion rather than a straight replacement.
Common M62B46 problems
The M62B46 shares its weak points with the rest of the M62 family. These are the faults to check on a used unit and on your own engine. The full explanation of each is in the M62 guide.
| Known fault | What to check |
|---|---|
| Timing chain guides | Remove the valve covers and inspect the upper guides; replace all guides when fitting a used engine. |
| Valve stem seals | Watch the exhaust after a cold start and after a long idle. |
| Valley coolant pipe | Look for coolant at the back of the engine and pressure-test the system. |
| Water pump and thermostat | Look for coolant trails at the front of the engine. |
| VANOS (M62TU) | Read the VANOS fault memory. |
Valve stem seals. Hardened seals let oil into the cylinders. The engine puffs blue smoke on start-up and after idling.
M62B46 maintenance
- 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic, about 7.5 litres with filter.
- Oil every 10,000 km; cooling system parts every 100,000 km.
- Single-row timing chains, one per bank, with plastic guides and hydraulic tensioners.
Will the M62B46 fit my car?
Will the M62B46 fit my BMW E53 X5 4.6is?
Yes, the BMW E53 X5 4.6is left the factory with the M62B46, so an M62B46 from another car is the direct replacement. The first X5 was built 1999–2006, and the M62B46 was produced 2001–2003, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E53 X5 4.6is?
We do not have an M62B46 on the shelf for the E53 X5 4.6is at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
Will the M62B46 fit my BMW E53 X5?
Yes, the BMW E53 X5 left the factory with the M62B46, so an M62B46 from another car is the direct replacement. The first X5 was built 1999–2006, and the M62B46 was produced 2001–2003, so check that your car's build date falls inside that window. Confirm the drive type (rear-drive or xDrive), the gearbox (manual or automatic) and the emissions standard, because these can change the sump, the flywheel and the software. Send us the VIN and we check all of it for you.
How much is a replacement engine for a BMW E53 X5?
We do not have an M62B46 on the shelf for the E53 X5 at the moment. Units arrive regularly; send us your VIN and we will tell you when the next one is ready and what it will cost, including delivery.
M62B46 prices
We do not have an M62B46 on the shelf at the moment. Send us your VIN or the code you need and the desk will tell you when the next unit arrives and what it will cost.
Buying a used M62B46: checklist
- Photographs from every side. Good suppliers photograph the actual engine you will receive. Look for the block stamp, the sump, the timing cover and any broken brackets or connectors in the pictures.
- List of what is fitted. Engines are sold with different ancillaries: some have the turbo, injectors, manifolds, alternator and starter, others are long blocks. Agree the list in writing so you know which parts must come from your old engine.
- Gearbox and flywheel match. Manual and automatic engines differ at the flywheel or flexplate, and sometimes at the crankshaft spigot. Make sure the engine you buy matches your gearbox or that you transfer the right parts.
- Confirm the exact engine code. Read the code stamped on the block and compare it with the code for your car. Send us the last seven characters of the VIN and we confirm the match before anything is paid.
- Why your old engine failed. Before fitting a replacement, find out why the original failed. An overheating radiator, a blocked intercooler or a failed turbo can destroy a second engine if they are not fixed.
- Timing chain noise. Listen for a rattle at the front of the engine for the first seconds after a cold start. On an engine that cannot be run, look at the chain guides through the oil filler or with the valve cover off.
- VANOS operation. Rough idle, a rattle from the front of the head and a loss of torque at low revs point to VANOS seals or solenoids. These are serviceable parts and are easier to renew with the engine out.
- Both cylinder banks. On a V engine, check compression, plugs and coils on both banks. Faults on one bank alone are common and easy to miss on a quick test.
Questions about the M62B46
What is the BMW M62B44 engine?
The BMW M62B44 is a 4.4 liter (4,398 cc) petrol engine from the M62 family. It has a V8, DOHC, 32 valve layout with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and makes 210 kW (286 HP) with 440 Nm of torque. BMW built it from 1996 to 2003 and it meets the Euro 3 emission standard.
You find the M62B44 in the BMW E39 540i, BMW E38 740i, BMW E53 X5 4.4i and BMW E31 840Ci. What we list: BMW M62 3.5 and 4.4 V8 engines for E39, E38 and X5.
At Autowerke Engines every M62B44 is a real used engine from our yard in Hamburg. The photos on each listing show the actual engine, not a stock picture. The yard checks the code, records what is bolted on, and seals the openings before the engine is offered. Each listing shows the year, the mileage and the price, so you can compare units side by side.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
Does a used M62B35 engine come with a warranty?
Yes. Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop.
The warranty does not cover damage from wrong fitting, overheating, low oil, wrong fluids or fuel, engines that were opened or modified without our approval, or labour and towing costs.
To claim, send us your order number, a short description of the problem, photos or a video, and a mechanic's report if we ask for one. If the claim is approved, we repair, replace or refund the engine.
Keep the receipts for the fitting, the oil and the filters. They make any claim quick and simple.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B35 in the shop
How much is a replacement M62B44 engine for a BMW E31 840Ci?
A used M62B44 for the BMW E31 840Ci costs from about 1.800 € to 2.950 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M62B44 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
How much does a used BMW M62B35 engine cost?
A used BMW M62B35 engine in our yard usually costs between 1.500 € and 2.450 €. The exact price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Our units show recorded mileage from about 22,000 km up to around 200,000 km. Lower mileage and more ancillaries mean a higher price. Each listing shows its own price, and the price you see is the price you pay. Prices include VAT for private buyers.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. If you order a gearbox or a second engine on the same order, the fee is still charged once.
Inside the EU there is no import duty. For the UK and other non-EU countries, import duty and local VAT are paid by the receiver, and we supply a commercial invoice.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B35 in the shop
What is the difference between the M62B35 and other M62 engines?
The M62B35 makes 173 kW (235 HP) and 345 Nm. The other M62 engines are: M62B44 with 210 kW (286 HP) and 440 Nm (1996 to 2003).
Engines in one family share a basic block, but the turbo, the injection, the sensors and the engine computer can differ. A higher power version often has different pistons, a bigger turbo or a different fuel system.
This is why we ask for the exact code. Fitting a different version can work, but the wiring, the software and sometimes the gearbox must be changed to match.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B35 in the shop
Will the M62B44 engine fit my BMW E31 840Ci?
Yes, if your BMW E31 840Ci was built with the M62B44. BMW used this 4.4 liter (4,398 cc) petrol engine with 210 kW (286 HP) in the E31 840Ci from about 1996 to 2003.
In our records the M62B44 is the engine for the E31 840Ci, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E31 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
Which cars use the BMW M62B44 engine?
BMW fitted the M62B44 to the BMW E39 540i, BMW E38 740i, BMW E53 X5 4.4i and BMW E31 840Ci. These cars were built with this engine from about 1996 to 2003.
The badge on the boot is not enough to be sure. The same model name can hide two different engines, for example after a facelift or a change in emission rules. Always read the engine code stamped on the block, or look it up with your VIN.
Other engines in the same M62 family are the M62B35 (235 HP). They look alike but differ in power, parts and electronics, so they are not always a direct swap.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
What should I replace when I fit a used M62B44 engine?
A used engine lasts longest when it starts life in your car with fresh fluids and new seals. Check the spark plugs and the ignition coils, and make sure the fuel lines are clean and tight before you crank the engine. Fit a new oil filter and fresh oil of the grade BMW lists for this engine, and refill the coolant with the correct BMW antifreeze mix. Use new gaskets for the exhaust manifold, the intake and the sump plug, and check every hose clip before the first start.
Look at the engine mounts and the clutch or the torque converter while the engine is out. Old mounts can crack a new engine's brackets, and a worn clutch is much easier to change now.
Before the first start, turn the engine over without fuel until the oil pressure light goes out. Then let it idle, check for leaks, and drive gently for the first few hundred kilometres.
The warranty asks for fitting by a qualified mechanic and the correct oil, coolant and filters. Keep your receipts in case you ever need to make a claim.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
Will the M62B35 engine fit my BMW E39 535i?
Yes, if your BMW E39 535i was built with the M62B35. BMW used this 3.5 liter (3,498 cc) petrol engine with 173 kW (235 HP) in the E39 535i from about 1996 to 1998.
In our records the M62B35 is the engine for the E39 535i, which makes the match simple. Still, check the code on your old engine or send us your VIN.
Also tell us if your E39 has a manual or an automatic gearbox. The flywheel or the flex plate and some sensors depend on it.
Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B35 in the shop
How do I know a used M62B35 engine is in good shape?
Each engine in the yard is inspected in Hamburg. The code is matched to the listing, the parts on the engine are recorded, the openings are sealed and the real unit is photographed. An inspection certificate for the unit can travel with the order when you ask for it.
When you look at a listing, check the recorded mileage, the year and the photos of the ports and the stamp. Ask for photos of anything you want to see closer. If you want more photos or a short video of a unit, ask the desk and we send them before you pay.
On a petrol engine like the M62B35, a careful fitter will also look at the spark plugs, the coils and the timing side before the engine goes in.
If the engine fails inside under normal use, the warranty covers you. Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B35 in the shop
Is the BMW M62B44 a diesel or petrol engine?
The M62B44 is a petrol engine. It is a 4.4 liter (4,398 cc) V8, DOHC, 32 valve unit with no turbo (naturally aspirated), and it was built to the Euro 3 emission standard.
The emission standard matters for registration and for low-emission zones in many cities. When you replace an engine with the same code, the car keeps the same paperwork and the same emission class.
Petrol versions need the correct catalytic converters and oxygen sensors on the car to stay legal and to keep the engine computer happy. Reuse the parts from your car if they are in good condition.
If you are not sure which version you need, send us your VIN. We tell you the right code for free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
How much is a replacement M62B44 engine for a BMW E39 540i?
A used M62B44 for the BMW E39 540i costs from about 1.800 € to 2.950 € in our yard. The price depends on the year, the mileage and the parts that come with the engine.
Shipping is a flat 249 € per order. It is added once at checkout and printed on the invoice, so there is no extra fee later. Inside the EU there is no import duty. Outside the EU, the receiver pays local duty and VAT.
A replacement engine is often much cheaper than rebuilding a damaged one, and much faster. The M62B44 you buy is photographed and checked in Hamburg before it is listed.
Eligible engines come with a 12 months warranty from the delivery date. It covers internal mechanical failure under normal use and correct fitting by a qualified mechanic or workshop. Not sure? Send us your VIN and your gearbox code. We match the engine family, the year window and the parts on the engine before anything is reserved, and the check is free.
See all M62 Engines · Search M62B44 in the shop
Delivery, warranty and payment
Before an M62B46 leaves our Hamburg yard it is drained of oil and coolant, every opening is sealed, and it is strapped to a pallet and wrapped. We send photographs of the packed unit and the tracking details.
Door-to-door delivery is included to the address you give at checkout. Typical delivery takes three to five working days within Germany and neighbouring countries and five to ten working days to the rest of Europe and the UK.
Every engine carries a 12-month warranty on eligible internal failure when a qualified workshop fits it with new fluids and filters. Payment is by card, bank transfer or crypto; your invoice is emailed as soon as you order.
