BMW 1997 2.8l Camshaft position sensor replacement

As performed upon my 1997 328is. My 1997 Z3 2.8 was identical, and other 2.8's likely as well. This also can work for the Intake Sensor for other BMW in-line 6 cylinder motors.

Exhaust cam sensors are done different. I haven't replaced one yet, so I haven't written it up yet.


The Problem: Check engine light comes on shortly after starting your car, when read with Peake Code reader, you get a Camshaft sensor code. In my 2 cars it's code 41.

The Perpetrator: BMW part 12-14-1-703-221 Pulse Generator. When you purchase your part, get the o-ring as well. The 2 parts together cost me $120 at the local dealer with BMWCCA discount. I'm sure you can do better mail-order, but I couldn't wait.



The Tools: 12" crescent wrench, or around 26mm wrench for the VANOS solenoid, and 22mm for the oil pipe, an oil filter cap wrench, I use a 36mm socket, and a 5mm allen wrench.



The Scene: The sensor is located on the left front side of the head, behind the VANOS solenoid. About 4 inches as crow flies from the oil filter cap.







The Process: First, the Bentley Manual way:



I have big hands, so I needed some extra room. I modified the Bentley method with a trick of my own. I removed the oil filter cap and filter, and covered the hole with a rag. That gave me a skoche more room to swing tools, and then reach in for the electrical connectors.

Undo the VANOS oil pipe. This is a banjo fitting with crush washers on both sides. It is smart to replace the crush washers, I didn't have them, so I re-used the old ones.


Next, unplug the VANOS solenoid. The connector is behind the oil filter about 2 inches from the solenoid.

Unscrew the VANOS solenoid. Be watchful in case pieces choose to shoot thru the air. I didn't have any shooting pieces, but still, be watchful.

We have now exposed the sensor. Remove the holding bolt with the 5mm allen wrench. Make sure the o-ring comes out too.

Now the fun part. About 10 inches back under the intake manifold is the wiring connector. This is really the reason for taking the oil filter out. You can reach your hand in there, while looking down thru the runners in the manifold to see, and unplug the electrical connector. You have to push in on a little wire bail to release the connector.



Feed the connector of the new sensor down into the place the old came out of. Watching thru the manifold, twist the connector around until it lines up with the socket, and plug it in. Make sure you feel the wire bail snap into place. Put the new o-ring onto the new sensor, and insert it into it's hole, and secure it with its bolt. Thread the VANOS solenoid back on and tighten. Don't forget to plug it in.

Reconnect the oil pipe. Don't forget the crush washers.

Replace the oil filter cap.

Reset the CEL light, start the car and check for leaks. After a quick test drive, toast yourself for a job well done!