Let me catch you up on this because it might help someone else.

I took it to a better shop about an hour away and we found two problems.

1. The VANOS timing sprockets were worn. In replacing those we also replaced the eccentric shaft sensor, and the timing sprocket, and re-timed the cams.

2. The CVV was not working intermittently. It's integral with the valve cover (N52N) so we replaced it with what must be the worlds most expensive valve cover. I don't think even Ferrari charges this kind of money.

Anyway we put 500 miles on it in less than 18 hours after leaving shop and so far, so good. No stalls, no flakey idle, no SES, no P0015.

I've owned cars for 45 years and do most work myself. This event was the largest single repair bill I've ever paid. Informed wife she will be driving this car now for at least another five years.

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08 X3
05 X3
96 S600 V12
86 930
05 K1200S -