SaraFox

BMW 5 Series 2008: Help, I think the engine is going flat

BMW

5 series

| 2008 | | Gasoline

Poor fuel economy

Check engine light on

Metal shavings in oil

Valve adjustment noise

Loss of engine power

Unsteady engine

Weird engine noise

Hi, I have a strange problem with my 2008 BMW 5 Series with a gasoline engine. The check engine light is on, the power is down, the engine is running rough, increased fuel consumption, rattling of the valves, metal shavings in the oil and a strange engine noise. I suspect that the fault could be in the exhaust VANOS. Have you ever had similar problems and if so, how did you solve them? I would appreciate your experience and advice. What was done in your garage to fix the problem? Thanks in advance!

(Translated from German)

6 comment(s)

Tinamotion

Hi, I had a similar problem with my 2006 BMW 3 Series. I have minimal experience with cars, but I hope I can still be helpful. In my case, the cause was a defect in the oil pressure control valve, which caused the engine oil pressure to be regulated incorrectly. I took my car to the garage and they solved the problem for me. In the end, I had to pay 280 euros for the repair. The symptoms you describe sound very similar to what I experienced - you could be right in your assumption. Best regards

(Translated from German)

SaraFox (Author)

Hey, thanks for your reply. As for the performance, unfortunately I don't have exact figures as it's difficult to tell at the moment with the reduced power and weird engine behavior. I will take your suggestions into consideration though and take my car to the garage to have the oil pressure control valve checked. Hopefully it's that and nothing worse.

(Translated from German)

SaraFox (Author)

Hi, to be honest I'm a bit worried, but of course I hope it's nothing too bad. I will take your advice and take the car to the garage. I will keep you posted!

(Translated from German)

Tinamotion

Hey, no problem, I'm happy to help. Yeah, it definitely sounds like a trip to the garage would be a wise decision, especially if you've noticed that there are metal shavings in the oil - that's not usually a good sign. I certainly hope it's nothing more serious and that the fault can be fixed quickly and cheaply. Keep your fingers crossed! Good luck to you!

(Translated from German)

CarFreak

Good day, it sounds like your VANOS system might be failing. I had similar issues with my BMW 5 series, and my mechanic replaced the VANOS solenoids and cleaned the system. Additionally, you can check for oil sludge and replace the oil filter. If you feel more comfortable then consult a professional for a thorough diagnosis. All the best!

CarlyMechanic

@CarFreak

Good day, it sounds like your VANOS system might be failing. I had similar issues with my BMW 5 series, and my mechanic replaced the VANOS solenoids and cleaned the system. Additionally, you can check for oil sludge and replace the oil filter. If you feel more comfortable then consult a professional for a thorough diagnosis. All the best!

It's definitely a good idea to have a professional look at your car, especially considering the metal shavings in the oil. This could indicate serious internal engine damage. The VANOS system could indeed be the culprit, but it's also possible that there are other issues at play. Please don't delay in getting your car checked out.

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