P0015 on BMW: How to Diagnose & Fix
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
2 BMW models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $100-$32,000 repair
P0015 on BMW by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The S85 V10 uses a high-pressure VANOS pump to supply the oil pressure that moves the variable valve timing units. The pump works at about 115 bar. The high-pressure VANOS oil lines can leak at the fittings where the rigid metal pipe ends join the flexible hose section. A leak loses oil and lowers the pressure available to the VANOS system, and a parts seller warns this can lead to very expensive engine damage. BMW issued a service bulletin (SIB 11 10 05) to replace the VANOS high-pressure line on M5s produced up to 11/22/05. Buyer guides report that a failed line can starve the pump of pressure, which can cause the pump to fail and send metal debris through the engine. How much the repair costs depends on whether that debris has contaminated the rest of the engine. Low VANOS system pressure is the telltale sign of a leaking line.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idling and unstable idle speed
- Reduced power output and poor acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
- Rattling or grinding noise from engine bay at startup
- Oil leaks visible near front of engine (VANOS area)
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes
How to Fix
Check first: look for oil leaks around the VANOS lines at the front of the engine, and have a shop check VANOS system pressure. Low pressure points to a leaking line. On early cars (built up to 11/22/05), check the service records for the SIB 11 10 05 line replacement, and ask any seller for records of VANOS line inspection or replacement. Fix: replace the leaking line with the current genuine BMW part. 11 36 7 838 670 is the pressure hose that runs from the pressure accumulator to the VANOS units. 11 36 7 838 669 is the hose that runs from the high-pressure oil pump to the other pressure hose. When you replace a line, also replace the crush washers at each end (4 in total) and, on the 838 669 hose, the O-ring at the top. The banjo bolts are cheap and optional. Getting to the 838 669 hose means removing the oil pan, so it is often replaced at the same time as the rod bearings. If the pump has failed and shed metal debris, the rest of the engine needs to be checked for contamination. Fix a known VANOS line leak promptly rather than driving on it. A published buyer guide puts VANOS high-pressure pump failure at $3,000 to $32,000, depending on whether debris has contaminated the rest of the engine.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine BMW S85 VANOS oil line 11367838669OEM11367838669
The retailer specifies four 07119963129 copper washers and one 11367834552 O-ring as additional required items; verify VIN and the exact failed line..
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Sources for this issue (5)
The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system on all E85 and E89 Z4 engines (M54, N52, N54, N20) suffers from solenoid failures, typically beyond 100,000 miles. The VANOS solenoids control oil flow to the variable camshaft timing adjustment units, and they fail through three primary modes: solenoid coil pack malfunction, sticking solenoid valves from oil varnish buildup, and deteriorating solenoid sealing plate rubber rings. When VANOS solenoids fail, the engine loses its ability to optimize valve timing, causing rough idle, power loss, poor fuel economy, and unusual engine noises. The good news: VANOS solenoids are inexpensive and relatively easy to replace - one of the simpler E85/E89 repairs.
Common Symptoms
- Rough or uneven idle with RPM fluctuations
- Noticeable loss of power during acceleration
- Engine misfires causing hesitation or jerking
- Check engine light with VANOS-related fault codes (2A82, 2A87, 2A9A, 2A9F)
How to Fix
Replace VANOS solenoids - inexpensive and straightforward repair. Replace all solenoids at once even if only one has failed - the others are same age and will fail soon. Also replace VANOS solenoid O-rings and sealing plates during service.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Beisan BS001 double-VANOS seals repair kit
M54 internal double-VANOS seal repair after confirmed seal degradation. Confirm engine and internal VANOS diagnosis before ordering..
- Genuine BMW N52/N54 VANOS solenoid valve 11367585425OEM11367585425
Confirmed N52/N54 intake or exhaust VANOS solenoid replacement. Replace only the failed/test-confirmed unit or both when the repair decision specifically calls for it.
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Sources for this issue (3)
P0015 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0015 mean on a BMW?
P0015 stands for "Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)." This code means the exhaust camshaft on Bank 1 is timed more retarded (later) than the computer commanded. Engines with variable valve timing use a cam phaser, controlled by oil pressure and a solenoid, to advance or retard camshaft position for better power, economy, and emissions. When the computer commands a position but the actual exhaust cam stays too far retarded, it sets P0015. This usually points to an oil-flow or phaser problem and can cause rough idle, reduced power, and poor fuel economy. On BMW it is documented across 2 models: M5, Z4.
What are the most common causes of P0015?
The most common causes of P0015 are: Low or dirty engine oil restricting phaser operation, Stuck or clogged variable valve timing (oil control) solenoid, Failed exhaust camshaft phaser/actuator, Clogged oil control valve screen or oil passages, Stretched or worn timing chain, Wiring or connector fault at the VVT solenoid, Incorrect cam timing from prior service, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0015 on a BMW?
Published repair estimates on BMW range from $100 to $32,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.