Camshaft Position Actuator Bank 1 Tight
1995-1999 BMW 318ti E36 1.9L I4
Description
The DME detected that the intake camshaft position actuator (VANOS unit) on Bank 1 is mechanically tight or seized. The VANOS unit is not moving freely within its expected range.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- VANOS rattle on startup
- Loss of power at low RPM
- Rough idle
- Poor throttle response
Common Causes
- Worn VANOS unit seals
- Sludge buildup in VANOS unit
- Failing VANOS solenoid
- Low oil pressure to VANOS
- VANOS piston ring wear
Diagnostic Steps
- Listen for VANOS rattle at cold start
- Check engine oil level and condition
- Monitor VANOS position with scan tool
- Test VANOS solenoid
- Measure oil pressure
Repair Notes
Rebuild or replace the VANOS unit on Bank 1; ensure oil is clean and at proper level.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P1520 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1520 mean on a 1995-1999 BMW 318ti E36?
P1520 stands for "Camshaft Position Actuator Bank 1 Tight". The DME detected that the intake camshaft position actuator (VANOS unit) on Bank 1 is mechanically tight or seized. The VANOS unit is not moving freely within its expected range.
What are the symptoms of P1520 on a BMW 318ti E36?
Common symptoms of P1520 include: Check Engine Light, VANOS rattle on startup, Loss of power at low RPM, Rough idle, Poor throttle response.
What causes P1520 on a 1995-1999 BMW 318ti E36?
Common causes of P1520 include: Worn VANOS unit seals, Sludge buildup in VANOS unit, Failing VANOS solenoid, Low oil pressure to VANOS, VANOS piston ring wear.