Wear on the N20 Valvetronic

A place for open-ended discussion on any car-related topic.
Post Reply
Isabella_Martin2002
Senior
Posts: 55
Joined: Tue Jun 15, 2021 9:15 pm

Hi everybody,

I have an F30 with the N20 engine (2013 reg) that has been suffering occasional valvetronic system troubles.

I removed the valve cover to inspect the motor and shaft, and both the eccentric shaft gear and the motor looked to be damaged. Is the eccentric shaft gear showing signs of excessive wear? I ran a pick over it and couldn't feel any ridges, so I was wondering whether a replacement motor would enough, or if a new shaft is also necessary.

Thank you, and any feedback is much welcomed.
AudiLover2003
Senior
Posts: 67
Joined: Sun Jan 30, 2022 9:40 pm

It's difficult to determine whether the wear is on the real shaft or just markings in the gunge, in which case I would replace the shaft and the motor.
Would I be accurate in concluding that the valvetronic spring has been on the BMW extended life servicing schedule based on the muck on it?
Isabella_Martin2002
Senior
Posts: 55
Joined: Tue Jun 15, 2021 9:15 pm

AudiLover2003 wrote: Mon Jun 19, 2023 7:36 am It's difficult to determine whether the wear is on the real shaft or just markings in the gunge, in which case I would replace the shaft and the motor.
Would I be accurate in concluding that the valvetronic spring has been on the BMW extended life servicing schedule based on the muck on it?
Yes, you are correct regarding the long-lasting service. This is my friend's vehicle, which he has refused to service more frequently over the years. Even after wiping the shaft gear clean, these traces remain. The motor is clearly deteriorated, as I can see the bare metal where it has been contacting, but I am unsure if the markings on the shaft gear are typical for the age and mileage (approximately 85,000 miles).
Olivia_Johnson92
Senior
Posts: 56
Joined: Tue Sep 10, 2019 4:25 pm

Have you removed this bolt?
Attachments
bolt.png
bolt.png (123.51 KiB) Viewed 1470 times
Olivia_Johnson92
Senior
Posts: 56
Joined: Tue Sep 10, 2019 4:25 pm

If a large bill is imminent, tighten the fasteners, replace the oil and filter, and consider selling the vehicle.
Isabella_Martin2002
Senior
Posts: 55
Joined: Tue Jun 15, 2021 9:15 pm

Olivia_Johnson92 wrote: Mon Jun 19, 2023 7:40 am Have you removed this bolt?
Indeed, the banjo bolt is what fastens the drip feed to the top of the valvetronic motor in its down position. There is no need to be concerned about it. In order to have a better look at the shaft gear, I had to remove the drip feed.
Lucas_Smith97
Senior
Posts: 92
Joined: Mon Apr 13, 2020 7:30 pm

Do not view the cameras.
Post Reply