Vanos may be up the spout

[ChrisRS]

I think the Vanos on my E36 323 (M52) may be about to expire.

Recently after a "Spirited" run there's nastly rattling coming from the front/top of the engine.

Am i right in suspecting the Vanos is about to expire and if so what it likily to cost me to sort out (Parts only, sort the labour out myself).

ChrisRS

[Ravell]

I believe parts come to something in the region of 500 pounds. Keep in mind that there are some special BMW tools you'll need to fabricate or borrow to do the job yourself as well.

I'd make absolutely sure it wasn't something else before changing the Vanos!

[E36GUY]

Single vanos systems that you get in the 323/325/328 don't normally go. Get it checked. Your engine may just be low on oil and need topping up. Could just be the hydraulic tappets clacketing away. Fill up the oil and drive it gently for a bit and see what happens.

It's the double Vanos on M3 Evos that is known for breaking but even then, it's over publicised.

[StuB]

I've heard a 'tapping' noise after trackday sessions etc., which I think is the fuel bypass valve.

Seems quite noisy at the time, but seems to go when the engine cools.

If you google Vanos and M52, there are vanos failures, but most seem to be overseas I think.

[phelix]

I had a noisy waterpump bearing that sounded like nuts and bolts rolling around in a coffee can on my 99 E46 328i...