Some tricks for M54 cam sensor, PN 12147539165...

- Use BMW Genuine sensor. But it is expensive at $125 or more.
Recently FCPEuro carries VNE brand, which has good review and is only $48.

- Once you remove the oil filter cap:
* Set the oil filter cap inside a zip lock bag to keep it clean.
* Place another Zip Lock bag over the oil filter housing itself to prevent debris from falling inside the housing.

- Tie the new CPS into the other end of the old CPS using dental floss etc. Then pull it through. This trick makes it very easy for the part that runs under the Intake Manifold.

PS: if the old CPS is still working intermittently, label it "intermittent" and throw it in the trunk so you have an "imperfect spare part", just in case you are hundreds of miles from home and the new CPS fails (which is extremely unusual)...

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1998 E39 528i 5sp MT
2006 E53 X5 3.0 6sp MT