I searched and tried a few different ideas. Some proved helpful but do not directly answer my question. That is how can I truly tell if I have an M57N engine in my car.
I found a 15yr old topic about what oil to use, but it did not really identify the answer except that it gave me a link to "RealOEM", which I have used before, but this time I plunged in and entered my last set of letters and numbers. The result as per attached image.
However, because of the build date of the car which is stamped 11/2006 on the plate on the vehicle, I have major problems when using the VIN to purchase parts. Sometimes I get E70 parts that wont fit and other times I get E53 parts that wont fit.
I queried this which was investigated by the local Stealership and their answer was...my vehicle is not only a facelift E53, but also fitted with some E70 parts that will only be found when and if they need replacing. GREAT!
Rumour has it a true M57N has an alloy block, timing chain at the rear (assumed), because the M57 has a cast block and timing chain at the front.
Are these sufficient to identify the engine as one or the other? I cannot trust my VIN anymore, I have been caught out three times on parts by using it, leaving me high and dry while I wait for exchange to the correct part.
The example I will use today, I want to buy six glow plugs, the company asks for the VIN and says these are only 5v he can supply me six @$30 each. I almost bought them, but then remembered something about my car and M57N. They require 12v, so today I search and end up on RealOEM and it says exactly that "Engine...M57N.
Both used the VIN to identify the car and two different results. WTF
Any help visually identifying this engine will be most greatly and deeply appreciated. I feel the walls closing in on this car. It seems that glow plugs can also cause the exact same symptoms as the water I removed from the transfer case. At $180 to fit a set, it would be worthwhile to do it.
Jeff
