Compare

Engine comparison

BMW S62
+ Add engine
+ Add engine
BMW S62
Verdict
SOLID · 60/100
Est. cost /3yr
€6,000-12,000 over 3 years depending on mileage and deferred maintenance inherited at purchase
Oil interval
8,000 km
Recalls
0
Worst issue
Valve Stem Seal Failure
HIGH
BMW S62
E39 · E39
Valve Stem Seal Failure
€2,000-4,000
HIGH
Water Pump Failure
€400-1,200
HIGH
Rod Bearing Wear
€1,500-5,000
HIGH
Coolant System Hose and Reservoir Degradation
€200-600
MODERATE
Oil Leaks from Various Gaskets and Seals
€300-1,500
MODERATE
BMW S62
E39 · E39
•Verify full documented service history with oil changes no longer than 8,000 km intervals, reject any car with gaps
•Start cold and watch exhaust for blue smoke at idle and after coasting, this indicates valve stem seal wear
•Listen at idle and through full RPM range for knocking or rattling that could indicate rod bearing wear
•Pressure test the entire cooling system and inspect the water pump weep hole for seepage or residue
•Inspect valve covers, cam covers, and underside for fresh oil leaks and budget accordingly if present
•Confirm the S62 engine code specifically, do not confuse it with the related M62 which has different parts pricing and specifications
BMW S62
E39 · E39
Water pump (plastic impeller)
Replace preventively with metal impeller aftermarket unit
80,000 km or at purchase if unknown
Valve stem seals
Inspect for blue smoke; budget for replacement if smoking at idle
100,000-150,000 km
All coolant hoses and reservoir
Replace all rubber hoses and plastic reservoir as a set
At purchase on any example over 15 years old
Rod bearings
Replace preventively if full oil service history cannot be verified
150,000 km
BMW S62
E39 · E39
No recalls on record
BMW S62
E39 · E39
✓Iconic high-revving naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, widely respected as one of BMW's greatest engines
✓No turbo complexity, simpler induction system with no boost-related failure modes
✓Strong community knowledge base with extensive DIY resources and forum documentation
✓Parts availability supported by a dedicated E39 M5 ownership community
✓Capable of very high mileage when properly maintained, forum references examples well past 250,000 km
BMW S62
E39 · E39
Real consumption
17 L/100km
Official consumption
Not available
Oil interval
8,000 km
Oil spec
BMW Longlife-01 5W-40 fully synthetic
Est. cost /3yr
€6,000-12,000 over 3 years depending on mileage and deferred maintenance inherited at purchase