Problems with the DISA valve on a 2002 BMW 3 Series: engine performance, jerking and indicator light

Hello, I once had a similar problem with my BMW 3 Series from the year 2000, but I am not a mechanic. The problem for me was the evaluation electronics were faulty (engine control unit). I had to take it to the garage and it cost me about 1000 euros to fix it. However, I don't know the exact details of how it was fixed as I'm not an expert.

(Translated from German)

Hi, thanks for your reply. The problem seems to be quite complex and directly related to the engine control unit, but I'm not sure. Your experience is very helpful and I will discuss this with my mechanic. Maybe someone else knows this specific problem and can share more ideas or experiences? Thanks again!

(Translated from German)

Hi, I can definitely relate to what you're going through. I had a similar problem with my own 2001 BMW 3 Series. My check engine light was on and the car was running like a bag of nuts. I found out that it was actually the DISA valve that was causing the symptoms you mentioned. It is true that incorrect activation of the DISA valve can affect engine performance and lead to the symptoms you describe. I took my car to the garage where they carried out a diagnostic test and identified the DISA valve as the cause of the problem. They had to replace the valve and after the replacement, the jerking under acceleration was gone and the engine ran smoothly again. The repair wasn't cheap, but it definitely helped. If your DISA valve is indeed the problem, I would recommend having it replaced - it worked wonders for me! Maybe at first glance the DISA valve may not be connected to the engine control unit, but it has a significant impact on engine performance and inefficiencies here can lead to a whole host of problems. I hope this helps you!

(Translated from German)

Thank you very much for your detailed answer. This confirms my suspicion about the DISA valve. I have already looked online for spare parts and will definitely talk to my mechanic. Your information and experiences are really helpful. The jerking when accelerating is what worries me the most, as it makes driving very uncomfortable. I hope that replacing the valve will solve the problem. You have really encouraged me and I now feel better equipped to tackle this problem. Thanks again!

(Translated from German)

I slowly pulled out of a parking lot, tried to accelerate - no response. I pushed the pedal further and it suddenly responded, then no response again. I coasted and pulled over, then attempted to accelerate again and it suddenly accelerated. I continued driving with no problem. Carly scanner detected a minor issue - something about the DISA?? I'm not sure if that's even the issue... the mileage log didn't seem to match. Carly sent a follow-up email stating "Malfunction in the suction system". Any clues as to what's going on here?

Hello StudioWizard, Thank you for your message. As CARLY said its related to the DISA valve and malfunction in the suction system. I would recommend you to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic and check these mentioned issues. Please keep us updated on your progress and let us know if you have any further questions. Best regards, Carly Team.