BMW Z3 Timing Problems, Valve Noise & Engine Issues

I can relate, had a similar issue with my 2004 BMW Z4 last year. My symptoms matched yours almost exactly, rough running, power loss, and that annoying ticking sound. Turned out to be a faulty crankshaft sensor. After diagnostics, my mechanic found the sensor was sending incorrect timing signals, causing all those issues you mentioned. Got it fixed at an independent BMW specialist, total bill was around 340 Euro. They replaced the sensor and cleared the codes. Car's been running like a champ since then. Before I can help more specifically, can you tell me: Have you scanned for error codes? Does the ticking noise go away once the engine warms up? Are you getting any specific error messages? By the way, if you've got a 3.0i, these symptoms are pretty common on that engine series. My had the same problem on his 325i.

Thanks for the detailed response! Yep, I've got 116062 KM on the clock, and I did scan for codes using my 's scanner. Getting P0012 and P0015 errors, plus that annoying ticking noise does fade after warm-up. I'm relieved to hear it might just be the crankshaft sensor, was worried it could be something way more expensive. Last service was about 3 months ago, and everything was fine until last week when these issues started popping up. Did your mechanic mention how long the repair took? I'm trying to figure out if I need to arrange alternative transport for work. Also, did you notice any warning signs before it completely acted up? I'm wondering if I missed some early symptoms.

Yeah, I remember when I had this issue with my Z4, the repair took about 2-3 hours total. My mechanic had to do some additional testing to make sure it wasn't something else, but the actual sensor replacement was pretty quick. You shouldn't need alternative transport for more than half a day. Looking at your codes (P0012 and P0015), I'm actually thinking it might be slightly different from what I initially experienced. Those codes specifically point to camshaft timing, and combined with that ticking noise... it could be the VANOS system. You know what, that's exactly what happened to my car about six months before the crankshaft sensor issue. The symptoms were nearly identical. For the VANOS repair, it took a bit longer, about 5-6 hours. Cost more too, around 800 Euro including parts and labor. But honestly, it was worth every penny because the car ran like new afterward. The improved fuel economy pretty much paid for part of the repair over time. Quick tip from my experience, if it is the VANOS, don't wait too long to get it fixed. I tried to "live with it" for a couple of weeks and noticed the symptoms getting progressively worse. Plus, you don't want to risk any additional damage to the engine. Want me to share what my mechanic did to diagnose it specifically? Might help when you take it in.

Thanks so much for all this info, especially about the VANOS system possibility. That actually makes more sense given my error codes. I'll definitely get it looked at ASAP rather than risk making things worse. I'd been hoping it was just the sensor, but better to face reality and fix what's actually wrong. Really appreciate you sharing both scenarios and the heads up about the repair times. I'll plan for the longer VANOS repair just to be safe and book something for transport. And yeah, if you could share those diagnostic details, that'd be super helpful, I'd like to sound somewhat knowledgeable when I talk to the mechanic. Thanks again for taking the time to help out. I'll update the group once I get it sorted, might help someone else down the line with similar issues.