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Received engine code P0340. Was told I need an entire new VANOS.

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    #1

    Received engine code P0340. Was told I need an entire new VANOS.

    I recently got a check engine light and plugged in the scanner which basically came back with code P0340 "Camshaft position sensor A circuit bank 1" Intake side. Took it to a local shop as i figured it was just a defective sensor which needs replacement. I get a call back from the mechanic and he basically tells me I need a whole new Vanos unit? Will cost about $3,000. I currently have a little over 61,000 original miles. I told him I'd get back to him and I definitely want to get a 2nd opinion from another experienced shop. Any input on this if someone had experienced a similar issue?
    Last edited by CarbonBlkM3; 08-20-2022, 07:50 AM.
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    #2
    Did they try to replace the cam sensor on the intake side first? If not, it sounds like you need to look for another independent shop.

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      #3
      Originally posted by Slideways View Post
      Did they try to replace the cam sensor on the intake side first? If not, it sounds like you need to look for another independent shop.
      Negative. Just basically gave me a rundown about the Vanos and recommended that I perform oil changes every 6-8 months.

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        #4
        Originally posted by CarbonBlkM3 View Post

        Negative. Just basically gave me a rundown about the Vanos and recommended that I perform oil changes every 6-8 months.
        Yeah, it might be best to find another shop. For something like the cam sensor, any good BMW independent shop can handle this. For any VANOS removal and repair work, I'd find a performance shop that works on E46 M3s daily/weekly.

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          #5
          Originally posted by Slideways View Post

          Yeah, it might be best to find another shop. For something like the cam sensor, any good BMW independent shop can handle this. For any VANOS removal and repair work, I'd find a performance shop that works on E46 M3s daily/weekly.
          Yea, that was basically my assumption as well. I know there's solenoids that go bad pertaining to the Vanos, but to just quote me on a whole new replacement without first changing the sensor didn't seem right. Definitely going to get another diagnosis and hoping it isn't something as serious.

          Comment

            #6
            A circuit error means exactly that. The wiring is at fault or it can't "see" the sensor. That can be the sensor failing or plug etc.

            It doesn't mean it can't adjust cam timing if for example VANOS is failing. It shouldn't be possible to get that error from a failed VANOS.

            So yes I definitely would be looking at the sensor first.

            Comment

              #7
              I bet it is just a bad intake cam sensor. Don't let them tear into other parts.

              OP, ask the shop the reasons why they think a new vanos unit is needed.

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                #8
                Originally posted by sapote View Post
                I bet it is just a bad intake cam sensor. Don't let them tear into other parts.

                OP, ask the shop the reasons why they think a new vanos unit is needed.
                I'm hoping that's all that is.There was many questions I wanted to ask but I just came off working a double shift and at the point told the mechanic i'll take it in consideration being he was kind enough not to charge me a diagnostic fee. He basically stated I don't drive the car enough being I only got 61,000 miles on the odo, and stated I should maybe try and do a fresh oil change to see if that alleviates anything.

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                  #9
                  Originally posted by Shonky View Post
                  A circuit error means exactly that. The wiring is at fault or it can't "see" the sensor. That can be the sensor failing or plug etc.

                  It doesn't mean it can't adjust cam timing if for example VANOS is failing. It shouldn't be possible to get that error from a failed VANOS.

                  So yes I definitely would be looking at the sensor first.
                  Yes, as far I researched the code, it basically states either the sensor is faulty or the wiring. Doesn't really mention anything pertaining to a faulty VANOS. 🤔

                  Comment

                    #10
                    A mechanic suggesting an oil change when you have a circuit error is not a very good mechanic IMO
                    • Likes 4

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                      #11
                      Originally posted by CarbonBlkM3 View Post
                      He basically stated I don't drive the car enough being I only got 61,000 miles on the odo, and stated I should maybe try and do a fresh oil change to see if that alleviates anything.
                      He was making a wild guess and didn't know much about these engines.

                      • Likes 1

                      Comment

                        #12
                        Originally posted by sapote View Post

                        He was making a wild guess and didn't know much about these engines.
                        or wanted to charge 3k for a new vanos, polish up the old one, and just swap the cam sensor…


                        Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
                        • Likes 1

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