Hi

I really having problems on this 2007 Mini Cooper Base N12, cant get ride of those codes, when i cleared at first startup engine surges and stall and codes 2845 and 287D appear, have lots of trouble keep the idle when cold, as engine rev up and warms, start and runs great. After two or three long cranks comes up codes 296A and 296D together.
- 2845 VANOS Exhaust Actuator Movement
- 287D VANOS Inlet Actuator Movement
- 296A Inlet Camshaft Sensor
- 296D Exhaust Camshaft Sensor

I have read lots of post and watched videos, some have a single code but any have both banks fail at the same time.

So far i have done the following:
- Removed both VANOS solenoids because it had carbon and sludge deposits, tested two different sets of solenoids including the new style with all metal screens -
- Cleared and Relearn the Adaptive Values for Intake and Exhaust, both within limits OK, Actual Exhaust Spread 51.9 Setpoint is 40 to 60, Actual Intake Spread 151.9 Setpoint is 140... 160
- Removed both oil check valves, they where ok, i cleaned with carb-cleaner anyway and reinstall, inside check ball and spring was ok -
- Check the Timing with the tool and everything lined perfect clockwise first time, changed the top rail guide, wasnt broken but it was the original design so i replaced whit the actual longer design.
- Removed the Camshaft bearings to check the "Pressure Rings for the VANOS" it had the old metal rings, Exhaust cam bearing was ok but Intake had a deep score mark, so i replaced the bearing, the cover and updated to the latest Plastic/Nylon pressure Rings on both cams, lined the VANOS Sprokets, timed everything but still same codes.
- Replaced the VANOS Sprokets with a used good known set, timed everything again and nothing still SAME codes.
- No Low Oil Warning on cluster, No valvetrain noises for lack of oil, havent tested with mechanical gauge oil pressure yet.
- Car Run and drives good when warm, i been able to take it to and from work, but those codes are driving me crazy

I Scoped the Cam and Crank waveform seems ok compared to a good know PicoScope waveform i found on internet, but i thinking on getting a new chain, guides and bolts and time everything again for the fourth time.

Somebody can help point me on the right direction or suggest any other test please

 

Looks like the only thing you haven’t tried is replacing the cam sensor. I wish i could be of more help but I don’t have experience with the N12 engine

 

@Project_Mini thank you your comment, but actually i replaced one of the sensors already and swapped around both banks, still same problem.

Will try new timing chain and all new guides on monday to see how it works.

 

Did you ever sort this? I’m getting both vanos codes too and car is running like crap

 

"-Car Run and drives good when warm"

This^ observation would fit with a faulty engine temperature sensor that causes engine to run lean when cold.