It's now off to BMW to resolve.

Quick update,

BMW have ordered 2 new Vanos Solenoids so we'll see if that solves the problem.

Hopefully

I also have an N62 X5 and firstly can tell you that I’ve always had the steering angle sensor and braking force codes, they seem to be fairly common and have no impact on my motor.

Secondly I have an NT510 scanner but nothing is better than INPA/ISTA and an OBD/USB cable, will also only set you back about $20.

I did rebuild on my engine about 3 years ago and at the time also replaced Vanos solenoids, I figured if I was replacing everything else I might as well and a few YT vids and guides had said it does help with a rough idle/cold engine idle etc. This may help but you also, may have an issue with your camshaft position sensor, I remember the connectors on these being really easy to snap when replacing rocker cover. They are located at the back of the head near the bulkhead the part number is 12147518628 if you’re looking for some diagrams then this is a great resource https://bimmercat.com/bmw/en/search/...is/ECE/11_3821

The other thing to possibly check is that the VANOS control unit is In good order, this is in the control box under the bonnet near the windshield, the modules in here including the ICM can get weathered and damaged, I had this with my IC module. The other things that a lot of Indy BMW techs will tell you is that the OE Vanos solenoids are actually quite poor quality and you should replace with something other than the BMW brand ones, Pierburg often comes up as a recommended brand. Hope you get it resolved, once you do the best advice I can also give is to get an EVC, I got one from SAAS and it’s just a different beast without the throttle input lag!

Your vehicle sounds perfectly fine during start up, for the video.
The idle is not the best, but start up is fine.


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Test test test NOT guess guess guess
Idle vacuum fluctuating (SP)?
EGR vacuum pots clean and operational?
Smoke tested entire intake system for leaks?
Cleaned the throttle body plate and replaced the mounting gasket?
Cleaned & Replaced the cam sensors seals?
Removed and replaced all the plugs with known good NGK plugs?

Recommendations:

There are three plugs recommended for the 4.8is from NGK

OE NGK ZFR6FH-11, Stock number 4294. Iridium 0.8 center electrode with a platinum ground electrode plug. Factory gap of 0.044 inches

Iridium IX NGK ZFR6FIX, Stock number 6441 Iridium 0.6 center electrode Tip (copper core) with a cut back and tapered platinum ground electrode plug. Factory gap of 0.044 inches.

The big difference between the OE plug and the IX is the additional engineering and trimming steps to provide better anti-fouling, easier cold starts, better tip in acceleration, and the shells are coated with anti-corrosive and anti–seizing materials.
The recommendation is always go with the plug that will provide the best performance over the widest range of driving. In our applications I would go with the NGK Iridium IX plugs every time. Will the smaller center electrode wear faster? Yes, in a lab. You will get 60K out of them easy.

Thanks for the last post.

A quick update, BMW have replaced both valvetronic servos which did nothing. The PCV valves i've checked and both are perfect. I've put new spark plugs in as well.

BMW have now gone deeper into the engine and tell me the timing is out due stretched timing chain. They say this is the root cause of bank 2 vanos problems. Sound right to you guys?

Can anyone shed some light on the timing chain theory?

cold start issuse there was TSB about it due to the uneven wear of the intermediate levers was certan year and build dates. yep N62 can be really love and hate have the 4.4i in one . with IKE it can be the YAW sesnor can be isssue but common for that fault i get it with mine i coded my out well the brake ass still all works. usally the n62 chains good but can be allways few hearn that have . i look at inpa in the motor setting allow you to view the vanos system details . if brisbane give rx automotive looks after mine e53 n62 or have talk to him

Let the games begin! Parts and labour already fast approaching Aus $10,000.

Should I spend another $1100 and get the valve stem seals done at the same time?:dunno:

https://i.vgy.me/IIlvPq.jpg

https://i.vgy.me/ElzzQa.jpg

Looks naked up there now :yikes:

https://i.vgy.me/EOrtWu.jpg

The engines leaves a pretty big hole when it's not there :confused:

https://i.vgy.me/lRVyWe.jpg

And the root cause of bank 2 Vanos problems......Timing chain. The inlet and outlet cams should allow the tool to be flush with the head when in time, as you can see it's well out!

https://i.vgy.me/qSFUWA.jpg

https://i.vgy.me/iNEsQ6.jpg


It's a pretty big lump of metal when you see it out of the car :wow:

https://i.vgy.me/IZs6Dl.jpg

https://i.vgy.me/vKmVgl.jpg

https://i.vgy.me/QunEmh.jpg

It's pretty clean inside though, probably the cleanest N62 the mechanic has seen so that's good news at least.

https://i.vgy.me/SyKdPu.jpg

https://i.vgy.me/vtWssR.jpg

Better get this thing fixed now. Waiting on parts though.....typical!

https://i.vgy.me/OdnAWw.jpg

That doesn't look like it's out by a lot, I hope the new chain helps.