3 Series E36 M3 (S50) COUPE
If a calculation in VANOS control unit shows that an adjustment in advance setting is required (e.g. full throttle from
central speed range), solenoid valve 1 is opened and solenoid valve 2 remains closed. Control piston in adjustment
cylinder moves in direction of travel and splined shaft rotates intake camshaft in its advance direction.
Once calculated adjustment is terminated, both solenoid valves close and camshaft remains in setting it has reached.
Function of VANOS electrical system
VANOS control unit uses sensor 1 (exhaust camshaft) and sensor 2 (intake camshaft) in conjunction with notched
wheels to determine current setting of the camshaft. Required setting of intake camshaft is calculated from engine-
speed signal and throttle-valve position signal.
This setting is stored in a characteristics file. If nominal and actual values deviate from one another, an appropriate
correction is made.
VANOS control unit is capabel of diagnosis work.
Using a BMW Service Tester or MoDiC, the non-volatile fault memory can be interrogated.
RA Description of VANOS function (variable camshaft spread) (S50 B30)
BMW AG - TIS
09.02.2013 20:59
Issue status (12/2007) Valid only until next DVD is issued
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