Question on Camshaft Sensor Replacement

I have a 2008 Mini base hatchback with 78K miles. I replaced the entire timing cassette with new gears,guides,tensioners,bolts etc using the correct locking tools. The car runs fine however after 100 miles the check engine light comes on and I get P0015. I checked the timing with locking tools and find the intake cam moved just slightly when I apply/install the locking tools. I then replaced the bolt on the camshaft according to spec and again after driving 100 miles code P0015 appears. Any ideas? Thanks in advance for your time.

__________________
This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: MINI Cooper R56 Camshaft Sensor Replacement (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

[Casey at Pelican Parts]

Swap your VANOS Solenoids and see if you get a different fault. My guess is a faulty VANOS Solenoid

- Casey

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

P0015 - "B" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded

I'd move your focus, if timing looks fine, to the camshaft position sensor: MINI Cooper R56 Camshaft Sensor Replacement (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article and/or the VANOS (as Casey mentioned above): MINI Cooper R56 VANOS Solenoid Replacement (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

You have two so what I'd suggest doing is switching your intake and exhaust sensors around to if the issue follows the intake sensor. I'd also recommend you clean the VANOS first and see if that helps. I have seen the VANOS sensors fail more than a few times and cleaning it might just be a temporary fix.

MINI did update the VANOS sensors as well, which are here: 2008 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - Cylinder Head & Valvetrain - Page 4.