u/ISmokeBacon

▲ 3 r/E90

330i "2A98" code - VANOS problems?

Hi guys!

The car's in limp mode and here's what I tried:

- swapped VANOS solenoids, error stays on intake side

- swapped cam sensors, error still remains kn intake side

- looked at the check valves, they're in great condition, no clogging.

More useful info:

- no rattles or other concerning sounds, just the engine is shaking a little in cold starts. It was working like butter before.

- oil changed 4k kms ago, 5w30. Oil filter cage present with the little oring changed so fuel flow shouldn t be a problem on this side.

- oil pressure is 1.670 mbars at idle

- index 11 injectors, this being an N53 (don't know if this relevant here but I thought it's worth mentioning)

I did the VANOS tests in ISTA-D and the intake side VANOS doesn't move the cam at all, staying at 125 degrees instead of getting to the target value, 105. Exhaust side has a 1 degree margin error, however. I don't know if the cam phaser is stuck or the ECU deactivated the intake side completely.

I suppose the only remaining option is to take the valve cover off and look at the VANOS units themselves? What should I check while I'm there?

reddit.com
u/ISmokeBacon — 23 hours ago