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BMW N73B60 Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The BMW N73B60 is the 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12 that powered the E65/E66 760i and the Rolls-Royce Phantom between 2003 and 2009 - reconditioned units from approximately £6,000-£9,000, with specialist demand from owners of BMW's flagship V12.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£3,000
Reconditioned from
£6,000
Rebuilt from
£9,000
GB
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Key Specs
BMW N73B60 - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
N73B60 (N73B60A, N73B60B variants)
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
6.0L V12, naturally aspirated, DOHC 48-valve, Double VANOS, Valvetronic
Power Output(s)
445-453 hp (327-333 kW); 443-442 lb-ft (600 Nm)
Years Produced
2003-2009
UK Models Fitted
BMW 7-Series & Rolls-Royce Phantom - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
Replaced
[M73 - LINK PENDING - page not in current inventory]
Replaced By
N74B60 - twin-turbo successor
Most Common Failure
VANOS seal degradation / ignition coil failure
Reconditioned Price Range
£6,000-£9,000 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for N73B60 replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which BMW Models Use the N73B60-
**TAG:** Fitted To
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 BMW 7 Series | E65/E66 | 760i / 760Li (445 hp) | 2003-2008 | |
| BMW 7 Series | E65/E66 (LCI) | 760i / 760Li (453 hp) | 2005-2008 | |
| BMW Rolls-Royce Phantom | RR1 | Phantom (453 hp) | 2003-2008 |
02
BMW 7 Series
03
BMW Rolls-Royce Phantom
CROSS-BRAND
N73B60 is documented across 3 BMW applications spanning BMW 7 Series, Rolls-Royce Phantom. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
Not sure which engine your car has?
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact N73B60 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
BMW N73B60 Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £3,000-£5,000 | £4,380-£6,910 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £6,000-£9,000 | £7,380-£10,910 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £9,000-£13,000 | £10,380-£14,910 | 12-24 months |
All figures . Fitted = supply price + labour band below.
Labour Guide
Fitting an N73B60 typically takes 18-24 hours at £65-£91/hr (independent V12 specialist) - confirm exact labour when comparing quotes.
Price Factors
What moves the price on an N73B60 is the variant (pre-2005 vs post-2005 LCI), whether the VANOS system has been overhauled, and whether the engine has suffered from ignition coil failure. A reconditioned unit that includes new VANOS seals, new coils, and refreshed gaskets commands a premium over a used take-out. See our full reconditioned engine cost guide.
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Common Problems
BMW N73B60 Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the N73B60, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: VANOS seal degradation / ignition coil failure.
1. VANOS Seal Degradation - Loss of Low-End Power & Rough Idle
1. VANOS Seal Degradation - Loss of Low-End Power & Rough Idle
Typical onset:
60,000-100,000 miles
What happens:
The N73's VANOS system (double VANOS) relies on rubber seals that degrade over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed past the seals. This causes poor low-end power, rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. This is the single most common issue on the N73, affecting virtually all examples as they age.
Repair vs replace:
VANOS seal replacement is a specialist job (£1,500-£2,500) and requires removal of the cylinder heads. While labour-intensive, it's far cheaper than a full engine replacement. Many owners combine this with timing chain replacement and valve stem seal work while the heads are off. Read our full VANOS failure guide
Read more about this issue
2. Ignition Coil Failure - Misfires on the V12
2. Ignition Coil Failure - Misfires on the V12
Typical onset:
40,000-80,000 miles
What happens:
The N73's ignition coils are mounted under the intake manifold and are exposed to engine heat. They can fail, causing misfires, rough running, and check-engine lights. On a V12, coil failure on one cylinder is noticeable and can lead to limp mode.
Repair vs replace:
Coil replacement is a straightforward job (£300-£600 for all 12 coils) but requires removing the intake manifold to access the coils. Many owners replace all 12 coils as a preventative measure when the intake manifold is off for other work. Read our full ignition coil failure guide
Read more about this issue
3. Valve Stem Seal Wear - Oil Consumption & Blue Smoke
3. Valve Stem Seal Wear - Oil Consumption & Blue Smoke
Typical onset:
60,000-120,000 miles
What happens:
The N73's valve stem seals degrade over time, allowing oil to seep past them into the combustion chambers. This manifests as blue smoke on cold start-up and, in severe cases, during driving. This is particularly common on higher-mileage examples and those with long oil change intervals.
Repair vs replace:
Valve stem seal replacement is a labour-intensive job (£2,000-£4,000) and requires removal of the cylinder heads. If the engine is out for other work (e.g., VANOS overhaul), many owners combine this with the seal replacement. If the car is high-mileage and has other issues, a reconditioned unit may be more cost-effective.
Read more about this issue
The N73 was revised in 2005 (LCI models) with updated engine management and minor hardware refinements. However, the VANOS seal and ignition coil issues affect all N73 engines regardless of production year - these are material degradation issues, not production-run problems.
Compare rebuilt N73B60 prices with the VANOS and coils already addressed
Engine Variants
N73B60 Sub-Codes Explained - Which One Is in Your Car-
The N73B60 was produced in two main variants across the 7-Series generation: the N73B60A (pre-LCI) and the N73B60B (LCI). The differences are in engine management and minor hardware updates, not in the block or cylinder head design. - Fitted to: E65/E66 760i / 760Li (2003-2005), Rolls-Royce Phantom (some early models) - Key technical difference: 445 hp output, earlier DME (engine management) version, specific exhaust calibration, Euro 3/4 emissions compliance - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family VANOS seal and coil failure patterns; pre-LCI engines have more frequent VANOS issues due to earlier seal material - Interchange note: Not a straight swap with the N73B60B - ECU, wiring and emissions systems differ. Requires full electronics transplant if swapping between generations - Fitted to: E65/E66 760i / 760Li (2005-2008), Rolls-Royce Phantom (2005-2008) - Key technical difference: 453 hp output, updated DME software, revised exhaust calibration for improved emissions, minor VANOS control refinements - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family VANOS seal and coil failure patterns; improved software but the physical seal degradation remains - Interchange note: Not a straight swap with earlier N73B60A - ECU, wiring and emissions architecture differ. Use the correct variant for your chassis - Fitted to: Rolls-Royce Phantom (2003-2008) - Key technical difference: Badged as 6.75L V12 (actual displacement 6.0L), specific Rolls-Royce ECU calibration for ultra-smooth power delivery, different intake/exhaust tuning - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family VANOS seal and coil failure patterns; Rolls-Royce models may have lower mileage but the same age-related seal degradation - Interchange note: Not a straight swap with BMW-spec engines - ECU calibration, ancillaries and cooling system differ. Use Rolls-Royce-spec engines for Phantom replacements
How to confirm your code: The engine code is stamped on a metal plate on the left-hand side of the block, near the timing cover. The V5C logbook lists the full engine number (the first 7 characters identify the variant). For LCI models, the engine number will indicate the B variant. Enter your registration above and we'll confirm your exact variant before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
M73
LINK PENDING - page not in current inventory] - the 5.4-litre naturally aspirated V12 that preceded the N73 in the E38 750i and E31 850Ci. Used single VANOS and produced 326 hp - a completely different design from the N73's double VANOS and Valvetronic technology.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
N74B60
- the 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 that replaced the N73 from 2010 onwards. Introduced forced induction and produced 544 hp - a significant step up in power and complexity, but also introduced turbocharger cooling issues the naturally aspirated N73 never had.
Confirm the exact N73B60 fitment
How to confirm your code: The engine code is stamped on a metal plate on the left-hand side of the block, near the timing cover. The V5C logbook lists the full engine number (the first 7 characters identify the variant). For LCI models, the engine number will indicate the B variant. Enter your registration above and we'll confirm your exact variant before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement N73B60 - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
A used N73B60 is a risky proposition unless it comes from a very low-mileage car with full documented history and proof of recent VANOS overhaul and coil replacement. The V12's complexity means many used engines have hidden issues (VANOS seals, coil failures, valve stem seal wear). Only consider a used unit with proof of recent work in these areas. Factor in £2,000-£4,000 for preventative work (VANOS seals, coils, valve stem seals) if the history is unclear. Link once: /services/used-engines
Reconditioned:
A proper N73B60 recon is the only sensible choice for owners of high-value 7-Series V12s or Rolls-Royce Phantoms. A quality recon should include: full strip and inspection, new VANOS seals (critical), new ignition coils and injectors, new valve stem seals, new gaskets and seals, and a full test. With a 12-24 month warranty, this gives you a fresh engine with all known weaknesses engineered out - well worth the £6,000-£9,000 supply cost for a flagship BMW. Link once: /services/reconditioned-engines
Rebuilt:
A full rebuild is justified when the original engine has suffered catastrophic failure (overheating, oil starvation) and the car is a cherished example (especially low-mileage E65 760i or Phantom). An upgraded rebuild should include new pistons/rings, refreshed cylinder heads, new timing chains and guides, and a full VANOS overhaul. This is specialist territory and typically only makes sense for cars with strong residual value (£15,000+). Link once: /services/rebuilt-engines
Supply & Fit Line:
All engines can be supplied and fitted through our network of vetted BMW V12 specialists nationwide, with 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt units. Link once: /services/supply-and-fit
Vehicle Value Note:
The N73B60 sits in E65/E66 760i - cars now worth £3,000-£15,000 depending on condition and mileage, and Rolls-Royce Phantom - cars worth £30,000-£80,000+. With a reconditioned supply cost of £6,000-£9,000, replacement is viable on higher-value 7-Series examples and easily justified on a Phantom. However, for a high-mileage 760i worth under £5,000, a used unit (£3,000-£5,000) may be the only sensible option - and even then, evaluate whether the car's overall condition justifies the spend. For cars worth under £4,000 with significant body or suspension wear, consider breaking the car before committing to a replacement engine.
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Related Engines
Engines Related to the BMW N73B60
Explore engines that are closely related to the BMW N73B60, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
M73
LINK PENDING - page not in current inventory] - the 5.4-litre naturally aspirated V12 that preceded the N73 in the E38 750i and E31 850Ci. Used single VANOS and produced 326 hp - a completely different design from the N73's double VANOS and Valvetronic technology.
Successor
N74B60
- the 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 that replaced the N73 from 2010 onwards. Introduced forced induction and produced 544 hp - a significant step up in power and complexity, but also introduced turbocharger cooling issues the naturally aspirated N73 never had.
FAQ
BMW N73B60Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a BMW N73B60 engine replacement cost-
A reconditioned N73B60 supply-only costs approximately £6,000-£9,000, with fitted prices ranging from £7,380 to £10,910 depending on labour rates. Used units start at £3,000-£5,000, and full rebuilds run from £9,000-£13,000. Prices are supply-only; fitting adds 18-24 hours at independent V12 specialist rates. Warranty varies: 3-6 months on used, 12-24 months on reconditioned and rebuilt.
- Prices are supply-only; fitting adds 18-24 hours at independent V12 specialist rates.
- Warranty varies: 3-6 months on used, 12-24 months on reconditioned and rebuilt.
Question 2What are the most common failures on the N73B60-
The most documented issues are VANOS seal degradation (causing loss of low-end power and rough idle), ignition coil failure (misfires on the V12), and valve stem seal wear (causing oil consumption and blue smoke). These three issues are the N73 family's most notorious weaknesses, affecting all variants regardless of production year. VANOS seals: replacement is the single most important preventative job. Ignition coils: 12 coils should be checked and replaced as a set. Valve stem seals: replacement is labour-intensive but restores performance.
- VANOS seals: replacement is the single most important preventative job.
- Ignition coils: 12 coils should be checked and replaced as a set.
- Valve stem seals: replacement is labour-intensive but restores performance.
Question 3Which BMW models use the N73B60 engine-
The N73B60 was fitted to E65/E66 760i/760Li (2003-2005, 445 hp) and E65/E66 760i/760Li LCI (2005-2008, 453 hp). It was also used in the Rolls-Royce Phantom (2003-2008, 453 hp) where it was badged as a 6.75L V12. Not to be confused with the M73 (predecessor) or the N74 (turbocharged successor). The N73 is BMW's last naturally aspirated V12.
- Not to be confused with the M73 (predecessor) or the N74 (turbocharged successor).
- The N73 is BMW's last naturally aspirated V12.
Question 4Should I buy a used or reconditioned N73B60 engine-
A used N73B60 is a risky proposition unless it comes from a very low-mileage car with full documented history and proof of recent VANOS overhaul and coil replacement. The V12's complexity means many used engines have hidden issues. A reconditioned engine is strongly recommended - it includes new VANOS seals, new coils, new valve stem seals and gaskets, with a 12-24 month warranty. Used is cheaper (£3k-£5k) but factor in £2k-£4k for preventative work. Reconditioned addresses all known weak points and gives peace of mind.
- Used: cheaper (£3k-£5k) but factor in £2k-£4k for preventative work.
- Reconditioned: addresses all known weak points and gives peace of mind.
Question 5How do I confirm which N73B60 variant my car has-
Check the engine code stamped on the block (left-hand side near the timing cover). The N73B60A (pre-LCI, 2003-2005) uses the earlier DME calibration and produces 445 hp. The N73B60B (LCI, 2005-2008) produces 453 hp. The V5C logbook lists the full engine number. Variants are not interchangeable without ECU and wiring changes. Rolls-Royce-spec engines have different calibration and are not a straight swap.
- Variants are not interchangeable without ECU and wiring changes.
- Rolls-Royce-spec engines have different calibration and are not a straight swap.
Question 6How long does an N73B60 engine typically last-
With meticulous maintenance and early preventative work, these engines can exceed 150,000-200,000 miles. The N73 is fundamentally robust; the limiting factors are the VANOS seals, ignition coils and valve stem seals. VANOS seal replacement strongly recommended at 60k-80k miles. Ignition coil replacement at 60k-80k miles as preventative. Regular oil changes (5,000-8,000 miles) with BMW-spec oil are essential.
- VANOS seal replacement strongly recommended at 60k-80k miles.
- Ignition coil replacement at 60k-80k miles as preventative.
- Regular oil changes (5,000-8,000 miles) with BMW-spec oil are essential.
Compare BMW N73B60 Engine Prices Today
Compare free, no-obligation quotes from our network of pre-vetted BMW V12 specialists. Every quote is specific to your exact N73B60 variant (A or B), and our reg-lookup tool confirms correct fitment before any quote is sent. With reconditioned N73B60 units available from approximately £6,000, comparing takes two minutes and could save you thousands on your flagship BMW V12 replacement.
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