F30 - Vanos Solenoid Location

[chrisefird]

Where is the vanos Solenoid location on a 2013 328i F30? I'm getting "Drivetrain Malfunction", "Drive Moderately" error on idrive. I've already changed the plugs and coils and I think it might be a clogged Vanos. There are a bunch E90 videos out there but I can't find one for the F30. Is it easy to access?

[MarcoZandrini]

The first step in diagnosing a problem is to scan the engine computer (DME=digital motor electronics) and the automatic transmission computer (EGS) for codes. Then post them.

Please stop throwing parts at the problem. Doing so wastes money, doesn’t fix the problem and it angers the BMW goddesses.

[bmwdirtracer]

+1.
There are HUNDREDS of things that could cause that warning. Don't guess; your chances of guessing correctly are only a little better than your chances of winning the lottery.

Get yourself a decent BMW specific diagnostic scan tool. Some people use Carly, a phone-based app, many like the Foxwell NT 510 or 520 handheld scan tool. You can buy the Foxwell online directly from Foxwell:
http://www.foxwelltool.com/wholesale...installed.html
OR on Ebay:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/FOXWELL-NT5...-/172319102926

OR, The "Schwaben" branded unit, from ECS Tuning:
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-schwaben...020sch01a~scf/

I've been told that the ECS unit can actually perform certain tasks which the other Foxwell units can't, like retracting the rear brakes for service.


Whatever you decide, you have to know what the problem is, before you can fix it.