Original BMW Left Valve Cover, Cylinders 5 Through 8, for BMW 540i, 740i, and 740iL (1998–2003)

For cylinders 5 through 8 on the M62 V8, this Original BMW left valve cover closes off the valve train on the left cylinder bank of the 1998–2003 BMW 540i and the 1998–2001 BMW 740i and 740iL. BMW names it the left rocker box cover. Any valve cover keeps oil inside the engine and keeps dirt and debris away from the valves and the parts that operate them. This one weighs 1.5 kg (3.4 lb), is made in Germany, and is sold as a single cover.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

The production date is the detail that decides fit. This cover replaced 11-12-1-742-131, and BMW classes the change as not exchangeable retrospectively, which means the newer cover is intended for cars built from September 1998 onward and not as a retrofit for earlier engines. As the left-bank piece, it has a separate right-bank counterpart for cylinders 1 through 4, so confirm which side of the engine you are working on. BMW's data places it on the E39 5 Series and the E38 7 Series with the M62 engine.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW Parts)
• Part number: 11-12-1-703-175
• BMW name: rocker box cover, left
• Position: left bank, cylinders 5 through 8
• Replaces: 11-12-1-742-131, not exchangeable retrospectively
• Weight: 1.5 kg (3.4 lb)
• Production start: September 1998
• Country of manufacture: Germany
• Sold as: one cover
• Warranty: 24 months

Common Questions

What happens when a valve cover like this cracks?
A cracked cover often causes a large vacuum leak along with an oil leak.

What else can damage a valve cover?
High engine temperatures can warp or crack a cover over time, and pressure buildup in the crankcase from a blocked PCV valve can also damage it.

PMB supplies this cover for M62 owners chasing oil and vacuum leaks on the left bank.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check the table below for the exact year, model, submodel, and any listed notes. PMB Performance has spent over 20 years matching parts to vehicles and can verify this against your VIN.