[Boosted_E46]

I'm shopping around for a 03-06 M3 and I'm aware that some people have had issues with the VANOS exhaust cam.
Is there any way to determin if this is a possible problem with a used car without taking the valve cover off?

My father works at a BMW dealer so I have had the cars go through inspection there to check codes and whatnot but I just want to cover all my bases before I purchase.

Thanks for the help.
Boosted

[drunk hal]

Originally Posted by Boosted_E46

I'm shopping around for a 03-06 M3 and I'm aware that some people have had issues with the VANOS exhaust cam.
Is there any way to determin if this is a possible problem with a used car without taking the valve cover off?

nope...it's the exhaust cam hub...it takes about 30-45 minutes to check from start to finish

[Sandeep1212]

From what I've read the valve cover has to come off unless there is a noise of the broken tabm but that I'm sure the tech would notice and would usually cause a catostrophic failure.

It would also be best to go a little further (if your in there already) and check if the cam bolts are loose because that's another issue that can occur

[deadlysyns]

valve cover has to come off, it's only a visual inspection...

[Boosted_E46]

Then valve cover will come off. If the seller won't allow me to then I will walk. I told him that I will cover the costs associated with relaxing the gasket and the checks. So I hope all goes well.
Had the shop go over it in detail to make sure it's a good example. Looking forward to having the 3 for the summer.