P0015 Error Code
 

Hi Folks,

The Check Engine light came on the car on Friday. It then went away, but came back again. I checked the fault code using the "Torque" app and it gave me the error code P0015, "Camshaft Exhaust Position Sensors Timing Over Retarded", which from my research can be caused due to various reasons:
1. CAM sensors gone bad
2. VANOS Solenoids either need cleaning or need to be replaced
3. VANOS seals need to be replaced.

Needs the BMW diagnostic tool to get more details on the fault, hence will be taking it to an Indy.

I have had solenoid fault before where cleaning them had fixed the issue.

Has anyone else experienced the same fault code P0015. If so what was the cause of the fault, how was it fixed and how much did it cost? I want to be educated before I sign the check.

Thanks

Sounds like a good list of culprits.

On the E39M5 we recommend prophylactic CPS sensor replacements and vanos cleaning and seals. Sensor is $75 and an hour. VANOS clean and seals is 2 hrs. THis is usually DIY as most big shops/deaelrs havent figured this out: they follow the 'test bad=replace vanos board' philosophy

With a GT1 or equivalent tester you should be able to run a vanos test to try and separate CPS fault from sluggish vanos....

As always, thanks for your feedback ard

Got the car from the Indy P0015 was being caused by the Exhaust Vanos Solenoid (2A87). My Indy had cleaned and swapped out the Vanos Solenoids last time and the fault seems to have migrated from Intake to Exhaust, indicating a bad solenoid. So looking at replacing it. Plz, check my new thread on the quotes I am getting.