Technical Information
This page is designed to answer any technical questions you may have. Please have a read through and should you still have a query contact us
If you are considering a BMW M57 engine conversion for your vehicle and want to know more information please use this guide before you contact us.
BMW M57 Engine Conversion
We often get asked for a ‘BMW M57 engine conversion’ and how much is it going to cost.
For us to answer this there are a few things we need to know. A BMW M57 conversion is a very general term and there are several factors and options for you to consider. There is not just one version of the engine and one fitment option.
Which version M57 engine would you like fitted?
Firstly, which version of the M57 engine would you like fitted? There are several different versions of these engines and they all have different applications, prices and not all engines models are compatible with the every type of conversion required.
What gearbox would you like to use?
Secondly you need to decide what gearbox you would like to use. This also helps us decided how much work is needed to complete the conversion. If you would like a manual gearbox option or if you would like the ZF 6 or 8 speed automatic options.
Below is what we recommended as options for a conversion.
We mainly suggest 2 types of conversions for DIY install using our parts
The M57 (306D1) engine to the 300TDI R380 gearbox
The M57 (306D1) engine to the 300TDI R380 gearbox. This is using the first generation M57 engine typically found in the Range Rover TD6 (2002-2006), X5 E53 (2001-2003), E39 (2001-2003), E46 (1999-2002). These are only guide years/models and if in any doubt look for the engine code which should be M57 306d1.
These engines have a narrower bellhousing than all later model M57 engines therefore they are the only versions that can be used with the R380 adaptor kit we offer. (See E46 model below for one and only exception)
**Note**
The R380 kit is only for the standard 300TDI R380 gearbox. It DOES NOT fit the TD5 R380 or the stumpy R380 version. This kit provides an excellent upgrade to an old, tired 300TDI engine with good power upgrades as the M57 in stock form on average boosts approximately 184bhp 410Nm which is a great improvement on a stock 300TDI of 111bhp 265Nm.
The BMW automatic gearboxes
If you feel you want more power than that stated and plan to use a later version of the M57 engine then we strongly suggest you switch to using the BMW automatic gearboxes.
The later M57 engines have model codes 306D2 and 306D3 and come with a ZF 6 speed automatic gearbox from years approximately 2004 onwards.
**Note**
(There is one model that is different, the E46 330D from approximately years 2003-2006 can have a 306D2 engine code so is the later M57 engine but with a smaller bellhousing and will have a 5 speed automatic gearbox, or 6 speed manual gearbox. This cannot be used with a ZF6 speed automatic gearbox but can be used with the R380 kit above.)
Summary
So as a general rule of thumb M57 engines from models up to 2003 fit the 300TDI R380 kit.
M57 engines after 2004 we advise using the ZF6 speed automatic gearbox that will come on with the donor vehicle.
See Note above for one model that is an exception to these rules
Installation Costs
It is hard to put an exact cost on a conversion. Every conversion is slightly different, many Defenders are not standard and have extra modifications that need to be accounted for. Level of finish and preparation to the engine before fitting significantly dictate the final price.
As rough guide estimate here are some typical figures to expect-
M57-R380 conversion
The prices for parts we currently offer are all listed on the web shop. We keep updating products and adding new products so if something you think we might offer is not on there is may be added in time.
You will need extra a TD5/TDCI radiator pack with side brackets and coves. £250
An uprated TD5/TDCI intercooler. £350-550
Guide price for labour for a conversion £2000 + vat
The customer is to supply their own donor BMW M57 engine also. (We do not supply used engines for these conversions. If you require a supplied engine please email for a quote but it will be a fully reconditioned engine and cost significantly more than a sourcing a decent used take out engine yourself)
M57N/N2 6 speed automatic conversions
Guide price for these typically starts from £10,000 + vat with the customer supplying their own donor BMW engine. As above we can supply engines and gearboxes but they will be subject to availability and a premium cost will be charged to ensure we are happy to supply an engine we can warrant
N57/8 speed automatic conversions
Guide price for these conversions start from £16,000 + vat again with the customer supplying their own engine and gearbox. Once again we can source engines and gearboxes for customers to offer a drive in drive out service. Prices start from £24,000 + vat for this service.
N57 and ZF 8 speed automatic gearboxes
We DO NOT offer a kit for the 8 speed automatic gearbox. The N57 and 8 speed automatic gearbox is an in house build only. We have to fully calibrate and set up the car and it cannot be done remotely so we only offer this service in house for a fully bespoke custom set up to each vehicle built.
Conversions other than Defenders
We often get asked if our kits fit other models of vehicles such as Range Rover classic’s, Discovery 1 and 2 models and all sorts of other makes and models. We currently have put all focus into our Defender conversion kits so the short answer is no. However, we have supplied customer’s parts to fit to models as they are similar but we cannot offer as good a fitment as it is not a Defender and as much support for technical information as we have not done these conversions in house. If you are happy to possibly have to modify parts slightly then items will cross over.
**Disclaimer**
All prices, figures quoted, models, years and power figures are an example to give a guide and insight into the M57 conversion options. All information is to help understand which direction you may wish to go. This is not the only way of converting a vehicle, it is the options we prefer from our years of experience of converting vehicles. Everything stated can vary so for the most accurate information please contact us but hopefully you will now have an idea of which direction you wish to go with your conversion so we can start straight away with a productive conversation.
After a BMW M57 Engine for a Land Rover?
Contact us for more information
Technical PDFs for customers
See below a few helpful PDFs which contain all the relevant information customers need.
M57-306D1 Engine fitting advice
306D1-DDE4 Wiring harness
LT230 Air shifter kit
M57-6HP Automatic harness
