I just got done with an engine swing on my 2011 MCS.

Everything seemed to go well, except for the fact that the engine is operating with an active torque derate, and has an active P1338.

Now, this code appears to be proprietary, as neither of the diagnostic tools that I have used, are capable of providing a description of the fault code. I have found 3 different descriptions for this fault code online.

• Intake Camshaft position sensor circuit open, or shorted high source.
• Camshaft Position Sensor Rationality Check (Inlet - Outlet)
• Intake camshaft: Angular offset to crankshaft is outside tolerance range
  

I am planning on buying a copy of the ISTA software for diagnostic and coding, but... Their website is down right now.

The only troubleshooting that I have done so far is swapping the camshaft position sensors from one cam to the other, trying to see if the fault followed the sensor. It did not, after I swapped the sensors and cleared the codes, P1338 returned.

The questions I am hoping someone may be able to answer while I am waiting to be able to order the diagnostic software for BMW / Mini are; What is the correct description for this fault code? Is there more than one failure mode associated with this fault code? And, what are the common failures that can cause it?

 

This is what my ISTAD has to say:

Fault descriptionThe diagnosis monitors the angle offset between the crankshaft and the intake camshaft.

Malfunction monitoring conditions

This fault code is detected whenever the reference position of the intake camshaft deviates from the permitted position.
Condition for fault identificationVoltage precondition

- None

Temperature condition

- Engine temperature between 60 °C and 110 °C

- Oil temperature less than 120 °C

Time condition

- None

Other preconditions

- Engine ON

Terminal status

- Terminal 15


Condition for fault memory entryThe fault is entered within 10 seconds.
Action in service- With a combination of faults relating to angle offset of intake camshaft and exhaust camshaft: Check the central bolt

- Check the camshaft sensor wheel intake

- Check the timing chain

- Check valve timing
Fault effect and breakdown warning- The engine operates in its emergency program
Driver informationEmissions warning light and engine warning light
Service instruction- None

 

Thank you fore the information MTB!!!

Sounds like the code is bad news. An actual camshaft static misalignment, and likely not related to VANOS. I still wonder if swapping the solenoid from intake to exhaust might show anything?

I will end up touching base with my engine builder to see how to move forward.

 

You actually could swap them. They both are the same.
it also doesnt hurt to check check the timing.

This site is very resourceful newtis.info navigate through to your modle then in the search bar type timing chain etc...

 

Interesting issue...

Replaced the intake vanos solenoid. Now both ;faults P1338 and P1339 are active. I'm planning on verifying base engine timing, I just have not had the motivation to get in the garage with this head cold that I have been dealing with.

Has anyone else dealt with one of both of these faults before?

 

Just an FYI for anyone that comes across this fault in the future, or this fault in combination with P1339, after major engine work.

Particularly where the VANOS adjusters (Cam sprockets) have been replaced. I got the faults resolved on my car, it was the vanos adaptations. I reset them using ISTA/D. And the faults have not returned.

 

I’m having the same issues after timing chain replacement. All timing has been checked and double checked. What do you mean by “VANOS adaptations”? I’d appreciate any advice. Thanks!