BMW N63 V8 4.4 Twin Turbo

The BMW N63 is a twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that was produced by BMW from 2008 to 2020. It was used in a range of BMW models, including the 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X5, and X6.

The N63 engine has a displacement of 4.4 liters and is capable of producing between 402 and 592 horsepower depending on the specific model and tuning. The engine features direct injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing, and BMW's Double-VANOS system for improved fuel efficiency and power output.

One issue that has been associated with the N63 engine is the potential for the engine's timing chain to stretch and cause damage to other engine components. BMW has issued multiple technical service bulletins and recalls to address this issue, and it is recommended that owners of vehicles with the N63 engine have the timing chain inspected and, if necessary, replaced as part of routine maintenance.

Some BMW N63 engines have been reported to have excessive oil consumption, which can be a concern for owners. The root cause of the oil consumption issue has been linked to the valve seals, which may wear prematurely and allow engine oil to enter the combustion chamber.

BMW has acknowledged this issue and has issued a technical service bulletin that recommends replacing the valve seals and other related components if excessive oil consumption is detected. It's worth noting that the oil consumption issue may not affect all N63 engines, and some owners may never experience this problem.

It's important for owners to monitor their engine oil levels and perform regular oil changes to help prevent any potential engine damage due to oil consumption. If an owner notices excessive oil consumption, they should bring their vehicle to a BMW service center to have the engine inspected and repaired if necessary.

There have been reports of turbocharger failures on some BMW N63 engines, which can be a costly and potentially dangerous issue. The N63 engine is a twin-turbocharged engine, and the failure of one or both turbochargers can result in decreased engine performance, increased exhaust emissions, and potential engine damage.

The most common cause of turbocharger failure on the N63 engine is related to the bearings and oil seals, which can wear over time and cause oil leaks, excessive smoke, and unusual noises from the engine compartment. If a turbocharger failure is detected, it is recommended to replace both turbochargers simultaneously, as they are typically replaced as a set.

To minimize the risk of turbocharger failure, owners should perform regular maintenance on their N63 engine, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and regular inspections of the turbochargers and related components. It is also recommended to avoid high-performance driving or towing with the N63 engine, as these activities can put additional stress on the engine and turbochargers.