CPS replacement questions

87Bertone · 10:51 AM

Hi -

I have a 1998 328IS with about 140k miles on it. This morning the check engine light came on so I got out the Bav Auto tool and I'm getting an error code 11 which appears to be the camshaft sensor. Has anyone out there done this repair on a 98 328is? If so, did you have to remove the intake manifold? Where on your car was the sensor? What about cutting the wires and splicing? Is it a reasonable solutiion to splice in a new sensor so as to not have to access the plug? (the tech article I saw about "long skinny arms" took me aback)
I know it's 1/2 assed but it I don't want to remove the intake manifold......any thoughts? thanks everyone - Dan

Noel · 05-14-2008, 09:37 AM

Are your serious??? Cutting wires on a BMW? You don't deserve to own such a fine German car!!!

Seriously though, I don't know, but cutting the wire would most likely keep the check engine light on and you would get nailed during your next annual emissions testing.

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

I dont understand how cutting the wire helps.

You should be able to replce the cam sensor without removing the intake manifold.

87Bertone · 05-14-2008, 10:50 AM

Guys -

I want to splice in a new sensor, that's all...I'm concerned about access to the wiring harness, that's all....

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

There is a connector on/at the sensor. There is no pigtail like an O2 sensor.

87Bertone · 05-15-2008, 03:24 AM

Thanks for the responses. I will give it a shot and see if I can reach under the manifold to make the connection. If not, I'll consider the splice but only as a last resort. Thanks

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

Good luck.

But I still dont get it. If you can reach the sensor to replace it you can reach the connector which is on the sensor.

coolbear1 · 05-15-2008, 04:21 PM

I have done it on an M50 engine. I think you have an M52 engine, which is very similar. The CSP, sensor end is a little different because of the dual VANOS, but the plug end is identical. after you remove the air intake and MAF sensor you can see the plug just above the idle control valve, behind the alternator. The plug is the easy part of the job. I found that removing the solenoid and oil line from the VANOS to gain clearance for cam sensor removal, to be the only real work.