In this video we Diagnose a Bmw Vanos Fault, and along the way i'll explain the system and tell you about the common failuresFor Business inquiries contact; Jun 2, 2020. Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung or “VANOS” is BMW’s variable valve timing system. It has unfairly earned a bad reputation for reliability with technicians, because the source of the problem is not the engineering. Rather, it is how some owners push oil intervals and often use low-quality oil. The latest versions continuously R56 MINI Cooper Hatchback (2007-11) R56 MINI Cooper S Hatchback (2007-11) Project Time: 2 hours. Tab: $260. Talent. Tools: Set of sockets 10mm, flathead screwdriver. Parts Required: VANOS solenoid, O-ring. Performance Gain: Remedy fault codes and restore engine performance. Complementary Modification: Replace in pairs. How does a VANOS engine work. Overall, an engine with VANOS differs very little from one without, the VANOS unit can be seen as a protrusion from the cam cover atop the engine. On modern BMW cars, the VANOS unit is more integral, and often hidden by a plastic engine cover. The VANOS system uses two cam gears instead of one, per camshaft. So the SECOND step is to check with your local Dealer, and BMW NA if necessary (THEN NHTSA ;-) for a determination of whether YOUR VEHICLE is "Affected" by the Recall. The FIRST Step is to use an Endoscope (see below) to visualize the VANOS bolts (at least two at a time) on the Intake cam. Reportedly per Forum Posts (I have endoscope below, but Introduced by BMW, VANOS is essentially a form of variable valve timing. This system dynamically adjusts the timing of the engine’s intake and exhaust camshafts in relation to the crankshaft. By doing so, VANOS optimizes engine power and torque over a wide range of speeds and operating conditions, while also enhancing fuel efficiency and The solenoid itself can often become clogged. Also a common product of contaminated oil, solenoid clogging disrupts its ability to control oil pressure. Symptoms of VANOS solenoid failure can include sluggish acceleration, loss of power, limp mode, check engine lights, and a rough idle. All, I replaced the oil filter housing (OFH) gasket on my 2003 325i Touring two weeks ago. The left side of the engine had all the typical OFH leak symptoms. I cleaned up the area as best it could. I knew, though, that wasn't the only oil leak I occasionally get a whiff of "burned oil 8qYfNK.