Identifying The Symptoms Of A Failed BMW Eccentric Shaft Sensor

Identifying The Symptoms Of A Failed BMW

Eccentric Shaft Sensor

Eccentric shaft sensor is the centerpiece of your BMW’s VALVETRONIC system.

Don’t know what is

VALVETRONIC system?

Well, this is something that has made throttle bodies obsolete in BMW cars.

It’s a computerized system that relies on different types of sensors.

• The eccentric shaft sensor is one of them

What is an eccentric shaft sensor?

This presentation explains;

What purpose does it serve?

Reasons & signs of eccentric shaft sensor failure

Eccentric Shaft Sensor: A Brief Intro

You can find it attached to the cylinder head of your BMW engine.

It essentially monitors the rotation and position of the eccentric shaft.

The VALVETRONIC system uses this data to control intake valve timing & duration.

If this sensor malfunctions, engine performance will deteriorate.

BMW Eccentric Shaft Sensor Failure: Reasons Explained

Electric short circuit

Aging

Eccentric shaft sensor can malfunction due to one of the following reasons;

Bad fuse or relay

Installation error

Manufacturing defect

Damaged wire

Oil contamination etc…

Signs Your BMW Eccentric Shaft Sensor Has Malfunctioned

#1 - Engine lacks power

One indicator of eccentric shaft sensor failure in a BMW is sluggish performance.

A mechanic will be able to exactly what the problem is…

Sluggish engine performance may also signify numerous other things.

Sign #2 - Excessive fuel consumption

VALVETRONIC works with VANOS to control intake valve timing & duration.

If it starts acting up due to a bad eccentric shaft, the engine will run rough.

And, yes… you’ll notice a sudden hike in the rate of fuel consumption.

Sign #3 - Excess exhaust emissions

Has your BMW been emitting a lot of exhaust fumes lately?

The cause could be a defective eccentric shaft sensor.

Sign #4 - Engine warning light on

Engine warning light may also signify a problem with the eccentric shaft.

• Retrieve the error code to find out what exactly is wrong with your BMW.

In Summary;

Eccentric shaft sensor helps the VALVETRONIC system with many different things.

• So, ensure the upkeep of your BMW’s eccentric shaft sensor.