Engine Identification
The engines are marked on the crankcase with an engine identification code for unique identification. This engine identifier is also required for approval by the authorities. The N55 engine further develops this identification system and the code has been reduced from previously eight to seven characters. The engine serial number can be found under the engine identifier on the engine. Together with the engine identifier, this consecutive number enables unique identification of each individual engine.
INDEX EXPLANATION
| Item | Meaning | Index/explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Engine developer | M, N = BMW Group P = BMW Motorsport S = BMW M GmbH W = Non-BMW engines |
| 2 | Engine type | 1 = R4 (e.g. N12) 4 = R4 (e.g. N43) 5 = R6 (e.g. N55) 6 = V8 (e.g. N63) 7 = V12 (e.g. N73) 8 = V10 (e.g. S85) |
| 3 | Change to the basic engine concept | 0 = basic engine 1 - 9 = changes, e.g. combustion process |
| 4 | Working method or fuel type and possibly installation position | B = Gasoline, longitudinal installation D = diesel, longitudinal installation H = hydrogen |
| 5 | Displacement in liters | 1 = 1 liter (whole number of liters) |
| 6 | Displacement in 1/10 liter | 8 = 0.8 liter (tenth of liter) |
| 7 | Type test concerns (changes that require a new type test) |
|
INDEX EXPLANATION CHART
| Index | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 08027053 | Individual consecutive engine serial number |
| N | Engine developer, BMW Group |
| 5 | Engine type, straight 6 |
| 5 | Change to basic engine concept, turbocharging, Valvetronic, direct fuel injection |
| B | Operating principle or fuel supply and installation position, petrol engine longitudinal |
| 30 | Displacement in 1/10 liter, 3 liter |
| A | Type approval requirements, standard |