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2002 BMW M3
3.2L I6 S54•RWD•AUTOMATIC•gas•S54B32
5 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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Repairs0Labor498Torque3157Fluid8DTC1267Battery1Maintenance0Recalls5
P3010high severityPowertrain

Camshaft Profile Actuator A Stuck Bank 1

on 2002 BMW M3 3.2L I6 S54 · RWD

What this code means

The camshaft profile switching actuator for Bank 1, intake side, is mechanically stuck in one position. Multi-profile camshafts switch between low and high RPM cam lobes.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Loss of high-RPM power
  • Rough idle if stuck on high cam
  • VTEC/VANOS-like system not engaging
  • Engine sounds different at high RPM

Common causes

  • Oil sludge blocking actuator passages
  • Actuator solenoid failure
  • Low oil pressure
  • Worn actuator pins or springs
  • Incorrect oil viscosity

Diagnostic steps

  1. Check engine oil level and condition
  2. Monitor camshaft profile PID on scan tool
  3. Command profile switch and verify response
  4. Test oil pressure at actuator feed
  5. Inspect actuator screen for debris

Repair notes

Flush engine oil system. Replace cam profile actuator solenoid. If pins are worn, camshaft replacement may be needed.

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