M62

The BMW M62 is a naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced from 1996 to 2005, replacing the older M60. It features an aluminum engine block and cylinder heads, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, and 4 valves per cylinder. It is highly regarded for its smooth power delivery, deep exhaust note, and robust bottom end, though it is famous for specific aging issues.

M62 Technical Update (M62TU)

In September 1998, BMW introduced the M62TU (Technical Update). This variant brought significant changes to the engine's power delivery and electronics:

• Single VANOS: Variable valve timing was added to the intake camshafts. This flattened the torque curve, providing significantly more low-end pull.
• Drive-by-Wire: Replaced the traditional mechanical throttle cable with an electronic throttle body (EDK).
• Water-Cooled Alternator: Switched from an air-cooled alternator to a sealed, liquid-cooled unit integrated into the engine's cooling loop for quieter operation and higher electrical output.

Core Technical Design & Features

• Alusil Block: Unlike early M60 engines that used Nikasil (which suffered from high-sulfur fuel degradation), the M62 block is made from Alusil, an aluminum-silicon alloy that is highly resistant to bore wear.
• Sequential Fuel Injection: Utilizes Bosch Motronic engine management systems for precise fuel metering.
• Sintered Connecting Rods: Features fracture-split, single-piece forged connecting rods for increased high-RPM durability.
• Duplex Timing Chain: Uses a heavy-duty timing chain setup to drive the camshafts, though the plastic guide rails are a known wear point.