Camshaft Position Actuator Bank 2 Tight
1992-1996 BMW 318is E36 1.8L I4 🇬🇧
Description
The DME detected that the intake camshaft position actuator (VANOS unit) on Bank 2 is mechanically tight or seized. The actuator cannot achieve its target position within the expected time.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- VANOS rattle
- Power loss at low RPM
- Rough idle
- Reduced fuel economy
Common Causes
- Worn VANOS unit seals Bank 2
- Oil sludge in VANOS
- Failing VANOS solenoid Bank 2
- Insufficient oil pressure
- Internal VANOS wear
Diagnostic Steps
- Listen for VANOS rattle
- Check oil level and quality
- Monitor VANOS position Bank 2
- Test VANOS solenoid Bank 2
- Check oil pressure
Repair Notes
Rebuild or replace the VANOS unit on Bank 2.
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
P1521 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1521 mean on a 1992-1996 BMW 318is E36?
P1521 stands for "Camshaft Position Actuator Bank 2 Tight". The DME detected that the intake camshaft position actuator (VANOS unit) on Bank 2 is mechanically tight or seized. The actuator cannot achieve its target position within the expected time.
What are the symptoms of P1521 on a BMW 318is E36?
Common symptoms of P1521 include: Check Engine Light, VANOS rattle, Power loss at low RPM, Rough idle, Reduced fuel economy.
What causes P1521 on a 1992-1996 BMW 318is E36?
Common causes of P1521 include: Worn VANOS unit seals Bank 2, Oil sludge in VANOS, Failing VANOS solenoid Bank 2, Insufficient oil pressure, Internal VANOS wear.