So.... I'm working on a friends 2010 Cooper S (N14)

(There are quite a few threads about this same issue on here, but most have gone unanswered, or led to nowhere at all.)


He recently started having issues with low end power loss, long crank time before start, and a CEL. The Code for the CEL came out as P1338 (Cam Position Sensor)
We replaced both the Cam and Crank position sensors, and cleared the code. Low end power came back, and car drove great. After about 2 miles and some hills, the code came right back, and so did the power loss.

I swapped my sensors into his car (as I know Mine are good), Cleared the code... Exact same thing happened.

I inspected the Vanos Solenoid, the diverter valve diaphragm, and all of the charge piping. All good.

The long crank times, power loss, and hesitations all SCREAM HPFP..... but that doesn't explain the Camshaft position Sensor CEL, or the fact that it starts quickly and regains its power after clearing the code.

Kindof at a loss considering P1338 is the only code it is throwing.

We have however purchased a working order HPFP (for cheap) JUST IN CASE. But something tells me that wont fix it.

Any ideas on what I should look at next? I'm all ears, and ready to try anything (aside from junking the car, because it needs to be sold in an estate sale. lol)

 

Did you check the timing to make sure it’s in check?

 

That's definitely the next step.... however, knowing the horrors of the N14, that's gonna be an extremely pricey fix, since it usually involves the timing chain, guides, and tensioner being replaced.
That's the only reason I saved that for last.

HPFP, Cam Position Sensor, Crank Position Sensor, Diverter Valve, VANOS solenoid, and coils/plugs have all been ruled out. I guess its time for the dreaded timing. lol

 

Resetting code restored power for a short time. Good sensor.

Wiring? Pins in plug secure and making contact?

 

They appear to be in good condition. I used some electrical connector cleaner in the connector as well.
Yeah, as soon as the code is cleared, it runs perfect. Full power restore and everything. I would think if the timing were off, it wouldn't do that.
After driving for about 5 minutes or so, check engine light and half power lights come on again. Definitely strange :/

 

A difficult task, but I would follow the wires to rule them out.
Is it a time thing? If the car sits idling will the half power light come on?
What type of reader are you using? Recently got the Foxwell mentioned on here, and it is pretty usefull in interrogating the modules.
Also good for running tests on HVAC and other modules.

 

ok.... soo....... Followed the wires, used an ohm meter.... Everything checked out for the most part. Checked the mechanical timing..... its off on the intake side. Really strange that the chain could have skipped, but isn't loose enough to make any abnormal noise.

Soooooo...... Timing chain replacement is in order unfortunately :/

 

Did this fix your P1338 code !?