Changing VVT motor on the N46 Engine

[Trigger]

Hi Guys,

I was wondering if it is possible to change the VVT motor on my own the N46 318i 2004 model? Does it need special tools or special settings?

It looks pretty simple, remove tappet cover, remove old motor, install new motor, but surely there must be more to it?

Got quoted R2469 from BMW for the motor so would like to change it as the car is due for a service again.lol. 6 times I've done an oil service and two times the plugs and filters:flyfun:

I have done 57 000km in 1 year and 3 months with my BMW and have enjoyed every moment, but she needs attention now:

Control arm bushes, etc
VVT motor
Key needs replacement
bumper needs a respray

Anyone know prices of control arm bushes, etc?

 

[zaleonardz]

Hi Bud,

Changing out the VVT motor is actually fairly easy, however you require to recalibrate it.

This requires BMW DIS or ISIS, INPA has this function, but never been able to get it to work.

Where are you located.

 

[Trigger]

Hi buddy - thanks for the reply.

Ok, I thought as much it needed something as such.

I am in Durban. Can you assist?

 

[zaleonardz]

Nope,

I am a little bit far.

However, what you can do if you cant find anybody out there.

Change the motor yourself, but unplug the VVT sensor afterwards.

What this will do is it will force the valves into a default position, ie Fully open.

Then take the car past BMW, they should charge you about 450 for the codes and to do a VVT motor alignment.

The full job will take you about 2 hours to do from start to finish, maybe 3, it really is bolt in bolt out.

 

[Trigger]

Ahhh bad luck!

Thanks for the advice buddy - it is certainly appreciated. I think I will do that instead of paying them an arm and a leg to do a simple job.

You're the manraise:

 

[zaleonardz]

Just one tip.

Look closely at the timing cover gasket when you put it back, it tends to move when you put it back, which tends to drive you insane...

 

[Trigger]

Ok will do so. Any idea approximately how much I should pay for labour if I think its too complicated?

 

[zaleonardz]

1,500 to 2k at most

 

[Trigger]

Thanks buddy. Have to try a DiY first:rollsmile:

 

[Bmwed]

how do you know its time to replace the vvt?

 

[Trigger]

If your car is making no power...virtually stalling under 2000rpm and has a general lack of power

 

[XMAX]

I have a buddy in Effingham who wont charge you that much. Really affordable, and has done this change a few times and has all the correct equipment.


RM Autotech... Rupesh.... 083 289 2744... Tell him Veru sent you. Great guy, Excellent workmanship whilst remaining affordable.

 

[Spy007]

If your car is making no power...virtually stalling under 2000rpm and has a general lack of power

Tha sums up Gopher but could also be becuase it is 318 touring A/t thta ways a bunch. :biglol::biglol:

 

[Beemie320i]

Would a perpetually on engine light indicate to the failure of the vvt motor?

 

[zaleonardz]

N42 no, N46 I think so..

 

[XMAX]

Best advice is to always get the codes read.

One of the causes, not the only cause, of VVT failure is sludge. So if you are replacing the motor, I strongly suggest that you do an oil change including a desludge.