nothing attached. did you have work done before this occurred? timing chain stretch, jump? codes?

 

-

 

I would make sure cam timing is correct, maybe your out a tooth, but I think that would be very hard to do, some engines wont even run if they are out 1 tooth, I am not familiar with what controls the vanos solenoid. Maybe a good place to start. I am a MB tech, and I work with a couple of ex bmw and 1 ex-mini tech, I will check to see what they say. I know MB controls their vanos solenoids through a magnetic adjuster on the front of the timing cover, Hopefully someone else will chime in,

 

Check your non-return check valve, too. Not a common problem, but easier enough and worth the effort before you go tinker with timing assembly. That valve can clog and not allow oil to go into the VANOS unit.