Hello everyone hoping to get a good response for this but i have a p0013 and or my cam timing is advanced first question would be that i have replaced my vanos solenoid and will that re-correct the problem. if not i have the timing tool to lock cams and crank is it possible to lock cams down and reposition the advanced cam back into position without having to take the timing chain assembly out of the car it has been replaced recently with no problems it seems that i may have just skipped a few teeth i am capable of doing the timing chain without issue just looking to see if it is possible to do this cheaper and i cannot find any info on this subject really any where except for people complaining about how bad they fudged up their car or that their life is now ruined by this.

 

I think i am having the same issue,
I just installed a new chain kit in a 2012 mini and code p0012 intake Vanos came up i tried swapping the sensors but it did not help.
I have reinstalled the lock down tools and found the intake cam off by a very little
I went ahead and removed the intake sprocket to reset it
Waiting on a new bolt right now so i can put it back together.

I would try checking the timing with the lock down tools.
Just remember the sprocket bolts are one use only

 

I see both of you mention the cam and crank locking tools, but no mention of the chain tensioner tool. I would expect timing issues without using this tool.

 

I believe you would be correct.
I found mention of a Bentley repair manual in another thread that says install the tool before installing the cam sprockets.
The Chiltons does not instruct you to install the chain tensioner tool.
I finished yesterday and the wife drove it to work this morning so far so good!
Thanks for the suggestion oldbrokenwind

 

So may I ask when you re-timed your mini, what was the position of the valvetronic cam? What was the position of the gear that the solenoid drives on the right hand side of the head?
I'm trying to find some references for my 2007 mini (non-s) that has valvetronic system. Maybe if someone reading this and has their cooper valve cover off that has an N12 motor can post a picture of the head from the top view.

 

Depending on what the MINI FC code is P0013 0x2842 VANOS exhaust-side solenoid valve, control-activation Open circuit or 0x2D9D 'B' Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Open (Bank 1).

You can clean first clean the solenoid easily to see if it's just restricted/dirty or replace the solenoid quite easily if needed. My suggestion is if you have determined you need a VANOS solenoid by cleaning, they are fairly inexpensive, and you're always better off replacing a degrading part. For cleaning and or replacing the solenoid, click HERE - under "tech info" tab at top, click on R56 articles, scroll to fuel injection > VANOS Solenoid Replacing.



If you decide to tackle the timing chain and guide replacement yourself, we also have a tech article on our site that can help you at that same link above. We have the timing components HERE, which should cost you (depending on if you go with all Genuine or OEM replacement parts) $300 or less. I can put this together for you if you want. If you have any questions let me know. Good luck.