Engine Code

LAND-ROVER M62B44 engine (1997–2002) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Land Rover M62 B44 is a 4,398 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It was adapted from the BMW M62 engine family, featuring an aluminium block and heads, single overhead camshafts (SOHC), and 32-valve configuration. In standard tune it delivered 180 kW (245 PS) and 410 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull and smooth refinement for full-size SUV applications.

Fitted exclusively to the Land Rover Range Rover P38A during its final V8 petrol phase, the M62 B44 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of effortless cruising, towing capability, and mechanical sophistication. Emissions compliance was achieved through dual three-way catalysts and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 standards across its production run.

One documented concern is premature failure of the intake manifold vacuum-operated swirl flaps, which in severe cases can lead to ingestion of broken flap arms into the combustion chamber. This issue, highlighted in Land Rover Technical Service Bulletin TSB 056/99, is linked to fatigue in the flap pivot pins under thermal cycling. In 2000, revised flap assemblies with reinforced pivot points were introduced to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1997–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).

M62B44 Technical Specifications

The Land Rover M62 B44 is a 4,398 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for flagship luxury SUVs (1997–2002). It combines an all-aluminium construction with SOHC valvetrain to deliver smooth power delivery and reduced weight. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances refinement with off-road torque availability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement4,398 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV8, SOHC, 32-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke84.0 mm × 99.1 mm
Power output180 kW (245 PS) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque410 Nm @ 3,800 rpm
Fuel systemBosch Motronic ME 1.1 electronic fuel injection
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemDual timing chains (interval: 120,000 km)
Oil typeSAE 10W-60 (API SL)
Dry weight192 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear power delivery ideal for towing and highway cruising but demands strict adherence to 120,000 km timing chain inspection intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-60 API SL oil is recommended for high-temperature stability in the aluminium block. Intake manifold maintenance is critical—failed swirl flaps can cause severe internal damage. The Bosch Motronic system requires stable fuel pressure and clean injectors; use of ethanol-blended fuels above E5 can degrade seals. Post-2000 models feature revised flap assemblies; pre-2000 units should be inspected per Land Rover TSB 056/99. Catalyst efficiency depends on regular full-load operation to prevent sulfur poisoning.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-60 API SL specification (Land Rover SIB 056/99). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 standards.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all M62 B44 models (1997–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output assumes clean air filter, fresh fuel, and correct ignition timing (Land Rover TDS Doc. M62-PWR-008).

Primary Sources

Land Rover Technical Data System (TDS): Docs M62-MECH-005, M62-AIR-012, TSB 056/99

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)

ISO International: ISO 1585 Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of mass power

M62B44 Compatible Models

The Land Rover M62 B44 was used exclusively in the Land Rover P38A platform with longitudinal mounting and derived from BMW's M62 architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-upgraded engine mounts and revised ECU calibration for off-road torque delivery-and from 2000 the P38A adopted reinforced intake manifold flaps, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Land Rover
Years:
1997–2002
Models:
Range Rover (P38A)
Variants:
4.4 V8i
View Source
Land Rover PT-1997
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the front cover (Land Rover TDS M62-ID-009). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for M62 B44). Pre-2000 models have ribbed valve covers with gold heat shields; post-2000 units use smooth cast covers with updated flap mechanisms. Critical differentiation from diesel variants: M62 B44 has no injection pump and uses dual exhaust manifolds. Service parts require production date verification—intake manifolds for engines before 09/2000 are not interchangeable with later units due to flap design revisions (Land Rover TSB 056/99).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Land Rover TDS Doc. M62-ID-009

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the right-side engine block near the front cover (Land Rover TDS M62-ID-009).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2000: Ribbed valve cover with gold heat shield
  • Post-2000: Smooth cast valve cover with updated intake flaps
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Land Rover TSB 056/99

Intake Components:

Intake manifolds and swirl flaps for pre-2000 M62 B44 engines are not compatible with post-2000 revisions due to pivot pin reinforcement and actuator linkage updates.
Swirl Flap Risk

Issue:

Early M62 B44 engines experienced intake swirl flap failure due to metal fatigue in the pivot pins under repeated thermal cycling.

Evidence:

Land Rover TSB 056/99

Recommendation:

Inspect or replace intake manifold with post-2000 revised assembly per Land Rover TSB 056/99; verify flap operation and vacuum actuator function.

Common Reliability Issues - LAND-ROVER M62B44

The M62 B44's primary reliability risk is intake swirl flap failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with frequent short trips or poor maintenance. Internal Land Rover quality reports from 2001 noted a significant share of pre-2000 engines requiring manifold replacement before 140,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in vehicles with lean-running conditions. Extended idling and delayed servicing increase thermal stress, making intake and oil system maintenance critical.

Intake manifold swirl flap failure
Symptoms: Rattling noise under deceleration, misfires, rough idle, check engine light, potential internal engine damage
Cause: Fatigue and fracture of plastic swirl flap pivot pins due to thermal cycling and vacuum actuator stress in early designs
Fix: Replace intake manifold with post-2000 revised OEM assembly per service bulletin; inspect for foreign debris in combustion chambers and clean or replace affected injectors if necessary
Timing chain wear or tensioner failure
Symptoms: Rattle at startup or idle, camshaft timing faults, metallic debris in oil, loss of compression
Cause: Dual chain system with early-design tensioners susceptible to wear under extended oil intervals or cold-start conditions
Fix: Install latest OEM-specified chains, guides, and tensioners per Land Rover maintenance schedule; verify cam timing and oil flow after repair
Fuel injector coking or leakage
Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, increased fuel consumption, fuel smell, failed emissions test
Cause: Bosch Motronic injectors prone to coking from low-quality petrol or ethanol blends above E5; O-ring degradation over time
Fix: Clean or replace injectors with OEM-specified units; renew O-rings and verify fuel rail pressure regulator operation
Oil leaks from valve cover and rear main seal
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing or undertray, residue around valve cover and rear crank seal
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover gaskets and rear main seal; PCV system blockage can increase crankcase pressure
Fix: Replace gaskets and seals with OEM parts and verify PCV function; maintain correct oil spec and change intervals to minimise seepage
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1997–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about LAND-ROVER M62B44

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER M62B44.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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LAND-ROVER Official Site

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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

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Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

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UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialLAND-ROVER documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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