A brief overview of Valvetronic technology The redesigned N52 inline six-cylinder engine, which was introduced during 2006, received the second-generation Valvetronic system, while the third, and current iteration of Valvetronic systems is in use on almost all BMW engines across the range of BMW vehicles.
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What is a Valvetronic engine?
Valvetronic is BMW’s latest answer to variable valve timing. Valvetronic engines use an extra set of rocker (intermediate) arms, positioned between the valve stem and the camshaft. These intermediate arms are able to pivot on a central point, by means of an extra, electronically actuated camshaft (eccentric shaft).
What causes Valvetronic motor failure?
Typical causes could include poor electrical connections, a damaged or defective actuator motor, low system voltages, or a binding/sticking eccentric shaft. The presence of this code will typically cause the Valvetronic system to be deactivated, and in some cases, a limp mode to be initiated.
Does BMW N54 have Valvetronic?
Since the N54 is based on the older BMW M54 engine, it has an aluminium engine block (instead of the magnesium alloy used by the N53), a displacement of 2,979 cc (181.8 cu in) and does not have valvetronic (variable valve lift).
Can you drive without Valvetronic?
when the dme sees valvetronic not working right it disables it with the valves at maximum lift. the car continues to drive fine with disabled valvetronic.
When did BMW start using Valvetronic?
First introduced by BMW on the 316ti compact in 2001, Valvetronic has since been added to many of BMW’s engines. The first application of this technology in a turbocharged engine was the N55 engine.
How do I know if my Valvetronic motor is bad?
Common symptoms that you will notice in this case include engine light is on, your BMW won’t start, runs rough, or an engine misfire.
Can a Valvetronic engine cause a misfire?
For a warm engine, the threshold for misfires is by Lambda around 1.4 .. 1.5. So โ unless the wear of the Valvetronic is not so significant, that the air fulfillment of the cylinder is for 50 .. 60% less than optimal โ Valvetronic IS NOT the cause of misfire!
How do I reset my BMW Valvetronic?
Insert the valvetronic motor and connect its 2 pin plug. Then switch the ignition onto position 2 and within a space of 15 seconds, depress the accelerator pedal down to full throttle 10 times and you will hear the valvetronic motor program itself back to factory spec.
Will Valvetronic harm my car?
It will not damage anything. By disconnecting the eccentric shaft sensor, the DME will put the valvetronic into emergency running mode. The valves will go to full lift via the DME activating the valvetronic motor and the accelerator will work off the throttle body.
Where is the Valvetronic on BMW?

What does BMW eccentric shaft do?
The eccentric shaft position sensor is used as a feedback for the Valvetronic eccentric camshaft. The eccentric shaft is actuated by the Valvetronic motor and in return controls variable intake valve lift. The eccentric shaft sensor is mounted to the cylinder head beneath the valve cover.
Which is better N54 or N55?
N55 Reliability: Which Engine is More Reliable? This is always a touchy subject when it comes to discussions about the N54 and N55. Simply put, the N55 is more reliable. BMW’s N54 was the first mass production turbocharged gasoline engine produced by BMW in decades.
How much hp can a N54 handle?
The N54 can handle around 600-650whp and 550-600wtq on the stock block and internals.
Do all 335i have twin-turbo?
Two primary engines powered the 335i โ the N54 and N55. Both engines are 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged engines. However, the older N54 engine utilizes twin turbos while the N55 is a twin-scroll single turbo. Despite the differences in turbos most BMW 335i models pump out the same 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
Does the N55 have Valvetronic?
Design. The main differences between the N55 and its N54 predecessor are the use of a single turbocharger, the addition of Valvetronic and the type of fuel injectors.
What does Valvetronic eccentric shaft sensor do?
The eccentric shaft sensor is responsible for controlling valvetronic timing, and has been known to be a common issue. If your car has been experiencing difficult starts, low fuel economy, and overall lack of engine power and performance, this component may be to blame.
What is eccentric shaft?
The eccentric shaft is an essential part of the fully variable valve lift control. The valve lift changes continuously from maximum to almost zero by rotating / pivoting the eccentric (shaft) by means of an electric motor.
How much does a Valvetronic Exhaust cost?
Stainless Steel Remus Valvetronic Exhaust, Size: 165 Mn at Rs 18000 in New Delhi.
What is BMW VANOS?
BMW’s VANOS stands for Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung. The VANOS is incorporated in the BMW M50 engines, where they focus on controlling the cam gear, which has a mechanical link to the exhaust gear by a chain.
What does double VANOS mean?
The second-generation double VANOS system adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust camshafts with continuously variable adjustment, based on engine speed and throttle opening. The first double VANOS system appeared on the S50B32 engine in 1996.
How do I know if my eccentric sensor is bad?

How do you read a BMW code?
- Standalone diagnostic device. Using a standalone diagnostic device to read out the error memory is easy and fast.
- Laptop with software and OBD cables. You can also read a BMW’s error memory with a laptop.
- Your smartphone and an OBD2 adapter.
What is Valvetronic exhaust?
Valvetronic Technology Fi EXHAUST. The valvetronic technology allows an exhaust system to control the gas flow, sound frequency, and overall performance. This allows the sports car to have higher torque at low RPMs and even higher horsepower at higher RPMs.
How does BMW Valvetronic work?
