Replacing VANOS units "just because"?

[Thumbie]

If your S65 has higher mileage (100k+ miles) and you were opening it up for other reasons, would you just replace the entire VANOS units while you were in there preventatively? Or is it something that you don't worry about until there's an issue.

I did some reading and it seems that these units rarely fail, but a failure is not impossible. Also seem failures are caused by other issues (failed rod bearings, etc.)

Some background: I need to replace VANOS covers soon (preventatively) with bolt-on covers, but since I am in there and need to re-time, should I just do the whole units? Rebuilt ones form Mporium probably. Leaning towards just doing the covers, but figured asking for some fresh opinions.

[spammysammich]

If I could afford it, I would do the covers and variators at the same time. With money being a huge issue, I’m monitoring the performance of the vanos system periodically with ISTA and will troubleshoot and replace components as necessary.

These engines aren’t really known to have vanos issues. The plastic cap thing is so new, two of my friends that happen to be BMW master mechanics haven’t heard of it. But they also aren’t surprised given their experience dealing with BMW plastic.

[Johnny E92]

My opinion, and opinion only, and what I did, is replace the VANOS covers with the bolt on ones (compete kit) from Mporium.

Also while ‘in there’ was the valve covers, got the ‘hamburger with the lot’ from NRW as my covers were leaking a bit. Got the complete package ie valve covers, gasket kit, ali spark plug tubes.

Also a ‘while in there’ replaced the throttle actuators with the ones from rebuild uk.

Yes it was not all cheap, but made sense to do it all in one go. The rod brearings had been done by the previous owner so all good there.

Will likely get the injectors replaced too just for insurance as its a keeper car.

Summing up, just do it, yes initially its expensive but a lot better than any future failures. I have had no issues in 2 years since I did as described.

[Thumbie]

Yes I agree. I am also taking a "while I'm in there" approach. I am planning to do the Mporium or Carbahn bolt-on covers. Also plan to replace valve covers, spark plugs tubes, plugs, fuel injectors. (waiting for the EPM billet covers with integrated tubes info@epm.com )

Which brought me to the original question of replacing the entire VANOS unit "while I am in there". It's not cheap for new/rebuilt units, but I can afford it if it reduces the risk of them failing later on. Still leaning towards just doing the covers, since it seems like risk is low of these failing.

[info@epm.com]

Originally Posted by Thumbie

Yes I agree. I am also taking a "while I'm in there" approach. I am planning to do the Mporium or Carbahn bolt-on covers. Also plan to replace valve covers, spark plugs tubes, plugs, fuel injectors. (waiting for the EPM billet covers with integrated tubes info@epm.com )

Which brought me to the original question of replacing the entire VANOS unit "while I am in there". It's not cheap for new/rebuilt units, but I can afford it if it reduces the risk of them failing later on. Still leaning towards just doing the covers, since it seems like risk is low of these failing.

They're on their way my friend. We will be posting more updates soon. Thank you for patiently waiting