Hi, 2009 non turbo 110k miles. Actually got the cam retard code and all cylinders misfire code.

Could this be a dirty VANOS solenoid? Looks to be one of the easier repairs, anyone do this repair proactively?
Thanks

 

I would skip the cleaning, and just get new solenoids. Should only take 15-30 minutes to change both.

 

Alex, what code are you getting? Your problem could be caused by many issues, so before you throw parts at it; I suggest you toubleshoot.

 

Codes cleared after a few restarts (I did use scanner but did not write down actual code) but search tells me it was likely P0015 B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1.

I have seen people suspect camshaft chain stretch but because it was accompanied by all cyls also reporting misfire I think cam went way out of time momentarily.
My wife was driving and did not report any engine hesitation but she probably would not notice a momentary issue.

I'll wait and see if it happens again.

 

Make sure you post all of the codes when/if it comes back.

Codes in memory will not clear after a few restarts; the check engine light may go out after a key on/off cycle, but the codes are stored in memory. Code will only clear if you've erased them with a scan tool.

 

If you can get them out it should be easy. I also thought there was only one on the N12/14?

I've had the 2DXX whatever code pop a couple of times on my 2011 MCS and bought a replacement solenoid to address it on the exhaust side, but I couldn't get a start on the darn Torx bolt and didn't want strip it. However, I was trying T25 and T30 and I believe it's a T27, which I now have, so maybe one day I'll try again. At least the exhaust side is somewhat accessible. I also tried the connector on the intake side to see if I could get it to unclip for future needs as it's upside down and gave up after frustration built.

The code has always disappeared on a restart, so I haven't been too bothered - yet.

cheers
MacMini34

 

The N14 only has intake VANOS; the N12 has intake and exhaust VANOS.