Engine out of timing...why?

[carreauchompeur]

Folks,

Having a mare with my E36 M3. Went into the garage with a general lack of power, they are still investigating but say that the engine timing on the exhaust is out. Assuming the VANOS isn't borked what the hell could cause the timing to go out? I'm very concerned this is going to be pricey!

[ManiacGT]

Well I'm no expert on that engine so I could be entirely wrong but looking at VANOS generally it could have slipped the chain/cog (but that would then be majorly out) or it could be general wear on those parts and it need adjusting back into timing dependent on how far it is out.

[creepy coupe]

Could the engine have been messed about with before you owned it? (assuming you haven't had it from new)

[carreauchompeur]

Phew, fingers crossed but it sounds like the VANOS solenoids were sticking and have now been freed up.. Panic over I think.

[Neil_M]

Glad to hear you have got it sorted.

Might be worth doing a little clean / service on your VANOS unit?

[carreauchompeur]

Thanks, I think they gave it a bit of a clean up which seems to have done the trick. Think I need to use the car more!