2011 BMW 335i - P0015 Exhaust Camshaft Over-Retarded - Limp Mode

Question

My E92 started throwing a P0015 code and going into 'Half Engine' limp mode frequently. It usually happens after the oil gets up to temperature. If I clear the code it stays away for a few miles but always comes back under light throttle.

I've been religious with 5k mile oil changes using LL-01 certified oil. I'm afraid the eccentric shaft or the Vanos bolts are sheared but I want to rule out the easy stuff first.

FuelInjFelix · Answer

✅ Confirmed fix: Replaced the Exhaust VANOS Solenoid with a new Genuine BMW unit. Even though cleaning the solenoids used to work on the older N54 engines, the N55 units internal seals fail and cleaning doesn't restore the hydraulic pressure needed to move the cam phaser. Problem solved.

OvernightOscar · Answer

If the code swapped to the intake side, it's the solenoid. Since it stayed on the exhaust side, check the oil filter housing cap. If the middle 'cage' in the cap is missing or the small O-ring at the tip is gone, you'll lose oil pressure to the Vanos system at temp.

2011 BMW 335i - P0015 Exhaust Camshaft Over-Retarded - Limp Mode

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