[jmmdm2]

I apologize if the answer is easily attained by the appropriately worded search…

I’m trying to determine the version of the N63 in my M550. Based on the limited info I’ve found using generic VIN decoders, I believe it’s the TU2 or TU3. There’s more to the code, correct?

I found: BMW N63B44M3 - N63TU3 Technical Update 3 as the release just before the 2020 power increase. I’d like to look at the block but it seems a bit tight in that area. Is there a VIN decoder that would provide a definitive answer?

VIN: WBAJB9C59KB287563

I’m considering the BM3 Stage 1 tune and I was doing some homework relative to engine stability. I ran the BM3 N20 Stage 1 tune on my 2015 (post timing chain issue) 528. Ran it it over a year without issue.

Thanks for any info this group can provide.

[H_T]

2019 I believe is TU2:

https://bmwtuning.co/bmw-n63-vs-n63t...tu2-vs-n63tu3/

[jmmdm2]

Thank you. I did read the information provided in that link.

The dealer advertised my vehicle with 456 hp in the description so I was hopeful this engine had the updated valve seals associated with the mid level TU3. I wonder if the dealers have access to a more complete VIN decoder which specifies exactly which version is in the vehicle.

[VirtualGuitars]

Originally Posted by jmmdm2

Thank you. I did read the information provided in that link.

The dealer advertised my vehicle with 456 hp in the description so I was hopeful this engine had the updated valve seals associated with the mid level TU3. I wonder if the dealers have access to a more complete VIN decoder which specifies exactly which version is in the vehicle.

They didn’t change over to that engine until 2020 from what I understand. Your car has more than 456 hp, that’s just what they advertised because performance wise it would beat the M5 for that same model year. I also have a 2019 M550.

[jmmdm2]

I understand the underrated output, I’m not really all that interested in the rated power. I’m trying to determine exactly which variant is under the hood. I appreciate the replies, It’s the engineering brain in my head that has to know the exact details.

I’ll look for the actual block stamping this weekend when I try to remove every tiny piece of the under hood sound deadening material that the mice chewed and deposited in the minute crevices on top of the engine.

[BMW012]

Below is the sub forum for engines, exhaust, drivetrain, tuning modifications, in case you didn't post there as well.

https://g30.bimmerpost.com/forums/fo...play.php?f=692

[adhrp]

Your production date based off your VIN is July 2018. It is most definitely the TU2. The TU3 was not installed in the M550i until the MY20 production cycle began around July 2019 (and it never received the mid level TU3).

[jmmdm2]

Originally Posted by adhrp

Your production date based off your VIN is July 2018. It is most definitely the TU2. The TU3 was not installed in the M550i until the MY20 production cycle began around July 2019 (and it never received the mid level TU3).

Sounds right, that’s what I was thinking. Not thrilled about the non updated valve stem seals more than anything.

I don’t see many posts about the M550 and BM3 or maybe I’m not searching the correct criteria. Based on the N63TU2 upgrades, if upgrades is the correct description, I feel comfortable installing a mild tune.

Thank you!

[adhrp]

Originally Posted by jmmdm2

Sounds right, that’s what I was thinking. Not thrilled about the non updated valve stem seals more than anything.

I don’t see many posts about the M550 and BM3 or maybe I’m not searching the correct criteria. Based on the N63TU2 upgrades, if upgrades is the correct description, I feel comfortable installing a mild tune.

Thank you!

You're welcome. The updated valve stem seals were a significant consideration for me too when I was shopping 2019 vs 2020, and the power bump was nice to have. That said, if it reassures you, I don't recall seeing valve seal issues on 2019s posted on the forums.

You seem well-read about the engine differences, but here are the two training manuals - one for the TU2 and the other for the TU3 - that I pored over during my research and saw a few other changes here and there which further pushed me toward a TU3.

[jmmdm2]

Originally Posted by adhrp

You're welcome. The updated valve stem seals were a significant consideration for me too when I was shopping 2019 vs 2020, and the power bump was nice to have. That said, if it reassures you, I don't recall seeing valve seal issues on 2019s posted on the forums.

You seem well-read about the engine differences, but here are the two training manuals - one for the TU2 and the other for the TU3 - that I pored over during my research and saw a few other changes here and there which further pushed me toward a TU3.

Excellent, much appreciated! I will enjoy reading those.

[AHall]

Originally Posted by adhrp

You're welcome. The updated valve stem seals were a significant consideration for me too when I was shopping 2019 vs 2020, and the power bump was nice to have. That said, if it reassures you, I don't recall seeing valve seal issues on 2019s posted on the forums.

You seem well-read about the engine differences, but here are the two training manuals - one for the TU2 and the other for the TU3 - that I pored over during my research and saw a few other changes here and there which further pushed me toward a TU3.

Do you have access to the manuals for S63B44T4 engine in the M5?

[adhrp]

Originally Posted by AHall

Do you have access to the manuals for S63B44T4 engine in the M5?

It is available to download in the first post of this thread: https://f90.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1510506

[Joe-BMW33]

Model Year drives which engine you have, not production or in service date.

MY 2018/2019 = TU2
MY 2020/2021/2022/2023 = TU3