Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Removing and Installing/Replacing Left VANOS Adjustment Unit (S85)
2008 BMW M5 (E60) V10-5.0L (S85)SECTION Removing and Installing/Replacing Left VANOS Adjustment Unit (S85)
11 36 030 - Removing and installing/replacing left VANOS adjustment unit (S85)
Special tools required:
- 11 5 100
Important!
If the hexagon socket screws with washers are released by mistake, it will be necessary to readjust the timing.
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove intake air manifold Service and Repair.
- Remove right cylinder head cover Removing and Installing/Sealing Right Cylinder Head Cover.
- Remove fan cowl Service and Repair with electronic fan.
- Detach oil line from VANOS adjustment unit.
- Remove coolant hose from radiator inlet on right.
Important!
6 hexagon socket screws with washers must not be released.
If the 6 hexagon socket screws with washers are released by mistake, it will be necessary to readjust the timing .
Important!
Hexagon socket screws (1) may fall into the engine compartment after they have been released (risk of damage).
Release screws (1).
Crank engine at central bolt until 6 hexagon socket screws of the adjustment unit have been released.
Remove coolant pipe (3).
Release screws (1).
Unfasten screws (2).
Remove VANOS adjustment unit towards front.
Important!
Do not open Seeger circlip rings of VANOS gears.
Installation Note:
Replace seal (1).
Installation Note:
VANOS adjustment units are marked to avoid being mixed up.
The lettering EIN (1) must point to the inlet camshaft.
Cylinder assignment (2), cyl. 1-5 or 6-10.
Important!
Risk of mixing up parts!
Check thrust bearing plates (1) for ease of movement before installing.
Clean sealing surface (2).
Installation Note:
Replace seal.
Insert screws (2).
Insert hexagon socket screws (1) without washers and secure to 10 Nm.
Installation Note:
Mark all screws which are already tightened down with a colored dot.
Continue cranking engine at central bolt or with special tool 11 5 100 through 120° until further hexagon socket screws without washers can be inserted on the VANOS gear.
Assemble engine.
There is air in the VANOS system once it is opened.
In the first few seconds after start-up this results in a clearly discernible "rattling noise".
This rattling noise does "not" indicate incorrect assembly.
The rattling noise will disappear as soon as the oil pressure has built up and the system has vented.
Perform VANOS test.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.