2006 2.0i Z4 Problems I need help identifying what to tackle.

[Zwut]

Hi all, first post here. Always wanted a Z4 and bought myself one this past week. Love the style of it and definitely wanting to keep it! However its throwing some issues at me that I need help identifying what to get fixed or replaced.

When I bought it, took it for a test drive with the owner for a while and everything seemed great. Got it home and drove it for a couple of days on short journeys, no issues. But, after a long drive and then stopping at a friends, upon restarting with a warm engine, it immediately went into limp mode. EML light and Exhaust light on dash in yellow. I got a basic code reader on it and it gave codes P1050 and P1062. I cleared the codes in the morning and again from cold start seemed fine. But after another longish drive the same thing happened, Limp mode, EML and exhaust light, P1050 and P1062. I also noticed the idle was getting slightly rougher.

I spoke to the previous owner who advised me he had cleaned the vanos solenoids but also had a new one in the boot that he'd bought just in case, but ended up just cleaning them and they were fine, I could replace one of them at least. So I replaced the one on the exhaust valve as I had the exhaust light up. Followed a guide ensuring all done correctly with seals etc. During this I also noticed that there was some oil in the exhaust solenoid connection which I cleaned out, which hasnt returned since, the oring on the replaced solenoid had a slight nick in it so I was thinking that was the issue.

But again, after long journey same thing. Also idle getting rougher. I then decided to switch the solenoids around to see if the issue moved away from the exhaust light at least. But after switching, the rough idle has got a lot rougher and worries me that its going to die although it hasnt yet, also now noticing on set off that it seems to be spluttering a little when initially putting revs on. After getting home from work today, EML light and limp mode, and also a new code thrown up p0012 Camshaft Position “A” - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1).

Cleared the codes again and started cold, no warning lights but that rough idle and splutter is still there.

So thats where I am right now. Just looking for advice on what to ask a mechanic to look at and/or what to buy as a preemptive replacement part to try solve this issue. Its a lovely car and I dont mind throwing a little money at it to get it to a place where I feel I can trust it not to die on me. Also, I want to enjoy it not worry about it.

At this stage, my thoughts are to:
Get a new VVT Actuator Motor
OEN 11 37 7 509 295 — BMW
OEN 11 37 7 548 387 — BMW
OEN 7 509 295 — BMW
OEN 7 548 387 — BMW

and possible a new Eccentric Cam shaft sensor
OEN 11 37 7 506 503 — BMW
OEN 11 37 7 513 783 — BMW
OEN 11 37 7 527 016 — BMW
OEN 7506503 — BMW
OEN 7513783 — BMW
OEN 7527016 — BMW

Everything else on the car is fine and i'm seriously in love with it. I'm based in South Yorkshire if theres anyone around this way who has a better reader to diagnose

Thanks all

 

[Zwut]

As an update, ive got it booked into a garage next week to get a proper diagnosis and possibly replace the VVT actuator motor if it turns out that is the issue. Nearly died on me this morning after a 20mile drive to work.

 

[bigwinn]

Hi bud

Sorry to hear you are having issues- I’d offer my help but I’ve only worked on the 6 pot m54 engine

Post up what happens at the garage though?

 

[enuff_zed]

I'll echo Stuart's sentiment. Same experience here.
If you can locate 'Tug' and pm him, he's the 4-pot aficionado.

 

[tug]

Mate, i would say almost definitely its the VVT. (valvetronic) The same thing happened to mine a few years ago. Had it replaced and its been "almost" perfect ever since. (i say "almost" because it is 2.0 after all :lol: )

It would be a good idea (if it is that) to have the adaptations cleared after fitting a replacement.

Hope this helps.

Cheers, tug

 

[Zwut]

Cheers Tug, its in the garage today for a diagnostic and i mentioned that thats what I thought it was. I'm all set to have to pay for a new VVT but obviously i'll wait for what the professional says. I limped it there this morning (only about a mile) and both the EML light and the exhaust light were on so he should be able to get all the info he needs hopefully.

Cheers for your response, pretty sure i'll be posting an update later today with their findings.

 

[bluepain]

I'm having similar issues with my 4 pot,
I'd be interested to find out if the valvatronic motor is the cause..
My one isn't as bad as yours sounds .
Hope you get it sorted

 

[tiglon]

Could be that that the eccentric camshaft itself is worn. Based on my own experience, I'd think carefully before guessing what needs replacing and throwing money at it, you might end up losing a lot.

Maybe I'm cynical, but it sounds like the previous owner knew he was facing a big bill and got rid...

 

[Zwut]

Mechanic has phoned today and after a 10min sob story about his other mechanic being in hospital (as they do), let me know he's wanting to keep car in til end of next week.

He's done a basic diagnostic and feels at this point it may be the timing chain, he wants to do more checks before confirming and then pricing up the fix and/ or replacement.

My research from what was happening pointed to a different direction but I guess he is the professional so i'll see what happens.

How much should a new timing chain be costing me around you think?

I'll keep you posted as I get further updates.

 

[tug]

Mate, has he plugged the zed in to find what codes are stored? Unless you are really unlucky, its doubtful that it would be be the timing chain in my opinion.

Do you get any rattly noises when starting up for a few seconds? if you do then its the tensioner which is easily replaced & not expensive.

But that would not give you the problems you have described. If it were me i would get my zed out of there sharpish.

My money is still on the VVT. Although a new replacement fitted cost me £430 but that was at a BMW garage. If it is the timing chain, then that would cost more than the car is worth. But again very doubtful it is that.

 

[Zwut]

Cheers Tug, Sent you a PM

 

[tug]

Have replied mate.

 

[BMW Baracus]

I've just had the same happen to mine. I'd be interested to hear what the outcome was and if it was a new VVT actuator that was needed please?