BMW 330i 325i E46 Vanos Rebuild DIY

VANOS rebuild kit (basic): amzn.to/2vpCK5h
VANOS rebuild kit (with the anti-rattle rings & bearings): amzn.to/2vjzIPP
Victor Reinz valve cover gasket (you need this): amzn.to/2viXjzV
NGK 3199 BKR6EQUP spark plugs (good time to replace them): amzn.to/2M0Orst
The VANOS is BMW's version of variable valve timing. It advances or retards the intake and exhaust cams to pull more power out of the engine. It works by using oil pressure to move two pistons in or out and those pistons have o-ring seals in them. The OEM seals were made of buna rubber and they degraded over time. The replacement seals are made of viton and shouldn't have the same problem.
This video is for entertainment purposes only. 50sKid assumes no liability for any repairs or modifications performed by the viewer as a result of the information contained in this video.

[@crqay]

I’m in college and I bought a 330i two years back and I had to do so many repairs, Just letting you know man without your diys I would be driving a Toyota right now. So, thank you

[@michaelprice3785]

I drive a Toyota Highlander and resemble your remark. Wife drives the E46. I hate the low ride height and the low profile tires.

[@DF-pr4sb]

@@michaelprice3785 good for you

[@maxheadroom1506]

LOL

[@gustavorock4616]

@@michaelprice3785 Seriously the pain of getting in and out of the car is making me reconsider lol

[@danrispoli9024]

for real, i had a 99 camry and i’d have to have done about the same work on an e46 to get it in decent condition so i said screw it and sold the camry, bought my 46 and only because there’s diy tutorials like these on youtube

[@robertlaugherty4914]

The knowledge is knowing how to do a thing and the art is making it look easy. You my friend have raised the BMW DIY video to an art form. As always thanks for the informative, well made video.

[@50sKid]

+Robert Laugherty thanks very much

[@Horsemanism]

Robert Laugherty

[@FireFox705]

Robert Laugherty - Couldn't agree more mate :)

[@javimendoza4794]

I’m college student and bought an 2004 e46 330xi from my uncle who had been neglecting it for around a year, and since I’m studying fro auto technician, with the tools and the help from my instructors that my school provides, and in huge part your videos I’ve saved thousands on repairs and now i know my car like the palm of my hand. Thank you man

[@martynmellow1362]

I've just replaced the vanos seals on my e46 using your video. Thank you very much for taking the time to produce it. I also had to replace the valve cover gasket, as it was as brittle as toffee and just fell to pieces! You are the best! Thanks again "50's Kid" :)

[@bend__]

Hey 50's kid, I did repair quite a lot in the past until like 6 years ago. Ever since I slowly just lost passion and interest and got tired of it, mainly by depression and shit. Just recently I slowly picked up again after starting watching most of your vids, binging them for hours and did most common M54 repairs on my E60. I can not wait until my parts arrive to overhaul my vanos unit. Your vids take the frustration out and are satisfying to watch. The camera angles are great and you provide them little details, so thank you for all these video's. I hope you will continue as you are one of the better sources to share knowledge.

[@LastChanceFossil]

Working on the car, using my head and hands is one of the most therapeutic distractions from the demons inside. Hope you're doing well. Love to hear how the car is going now.

[@balancedfoodandfitness]

This was such a thorough, well captured, and expertly commented video. Keep up the good work!

[@micahwatson9017]

One of the best DIY videos I've seen for e46 work. I believe the T30 torx screws that hold the vanos pistons to the cam shaft are designed to "stretch" when torqued down, so it is not recommended to reuse them. That is why they come in most rebuild kits.

[@mr.recruiterp3583]

Yes, one snapped on me. Did you hand tighten them? I used my torque wrench set at 6 ft lbs but it must be off because it snapped one of them Waiting on two new ones.

[@spacedkowboy7273]

Jason, great videos as always. I just completed my Vanos rebuild (O-rings) as well as replacing the valve cover gasket while I was at it. It all went off without a hitch (for the most part)! I couldn't have done it without your help. I even finished the job by installing a Homelink garage door opener because of your video. Thanks a million, you've taught me so much about working on my E46! Always look forward to your new videos!

[@olddog123]

Is replacing the valve cover gasket required when doing this job?

[@evanfinch4987]

Bless you for using an electric impact. I use mine even on hose clamps now. Once you become one with the trigger, you never go back.

[@wjohnsonism]

Fantastic video. Excellent lighting, great camera positions and clarity, perfect audio. VANOS was a real scary grey area for me until I watched this segment. Keep up the good work.

[@dub_cub8936]

Thank you for taking the time to make this job less daunting for the rest of us 👏

[@jonathonhoggarth6473]

Just bought an e46 and honestly; your making a real difference. I'd never have been able to own one without your insightful videos (y).. thanks man.

[@impolse1173]

I just got a 2001 530i and I plan to do this myself. Thanks for your instructions on how to do it. You're great man keep it up!

[@jamesbenjamin2811]

50s kid is the goat of diy . I have learned so much from this dude . His videos have saved my gf & myself THOUSANDS in costly repair bills. Definitely just watching these videos has been a huge influence & confidence booster for me to just DIY!! Thank u 50skid udaman!!!!🤟🤟

[@aidagad5830]

You're first person I came across on youtube who explains vanos briefly! I don't own this vehicle, but it's very interesting to see why they chose vanos design and how it operates and maintained.

[@Volvo8Fifty4Life]

Thank you 50skid for all your videos. It is because of your videos that I was able to easily and smoothly service the VANOS, VCG, Water pump and thermostat on my E46. You da man! You've got a subscriber for life!

[@beerabhi]

what a systematic and pedagogical way to explain step by step! Great video. Thanks

[@briang3033]

I have a 2005 e46 BMW 330xi. I am so happy I found this guy's channel. Makes life so much easier. Thank you 50's!

[@petersgarage6125]

Thanks for making these how to videos. These jobs can be done with minimal tools. Its the knowledge that you pay for when going to a dealership for repairs. You have taken these E46 videos to a new level. Awesome!!!!!!!! Subscribed ages a go. Thanks

[@HamidRHariri]

Did this job a while ago on my e46. But still enjoyed watching it. Thanks for the upload.

[@maciekmako3769]

Man, this is so pleasant to watch, and the knowledge here... thanks for all the videos, great job :)

[@50sKid]

Thank you!

[@harmzsingh8045]

fantastic video as always! I've had a VANOS rebuild kit lying in a box for about 2 years (too scared to get stuck in) but I'm gonna have a go now I've got a comprehensive video to tackle it with. I don't think I've got any rattles yet so I'll probably just do the seals. Thanks, and keep up the great work.

[@straight6petrol67]

I love these "less refined" videos as it reflects what will happen when I do my car! Spend an hour yanking and prying to Google and find there is a bolt you missed...

[@alpina5426]

By far the most thorough DIY vid for the double VANOS rebuild. Great Video!

[@50sKid]

Thanks, I honestly thought someone else had the exact same video but I made it anyway and damn glad I did because people are digging it.

[@chisparousselle5436]

I have been watching your videos for some time with such amazement how you zip through your description. You make everything look so easy...You are very talented and seem to have all the right answers for anything that might come up. Thanks for all your expertise and precise details that make you such a genius. Seeing all this makes me want to take my 330ci all apart just to keep up with you..

[@50sKid]

thanks very much!

[@chuck8658]

I really like the calm voice of walking through all steps. Unfortunately I dont have a garage to work on so only thing I can do is limited to cosmetics.

[@BlurredOutBoy]

Man, my kid and I just did this and other rebuild procedures on his 330xi with your help. We love to talk crap about your logo, but more than that, we really appreciate your vids. Thank you.

[@slothmag]

Great video, it really helped out in preparing for the job. Just finished doing this on my 328Ci. I replaced the exhaust cam sensor first, then tested it before replacing the Vanos (replaced with an improved O-ring one). Actually I seemed to get more improved performance from just changing the sensor than the whole Vanos. Changing both is definitely something I would recommend if the car seems down on power. Anyway changing the Vanos cured rough idle, cured a power surge that used to occur around 3000 RPM, and improved the gas mileage. Well worth the 3-4 hours I spent in the garage!

[@birdseyetwo]

Thanks for the calm and professional illustration. Always interesting to watch your videos!

[@captainsergeant]

Just finished my VANOS rebuild. As always, your video was spot on and made the job quick and easy.

[@kurzjames]

Your channel is becoming my informal education

[@lorenpeterson657]

Hey Jason, thanks for the update. I get how cars aren't the main passion right now and that's why you're not posting. But I admire, and note, the respect you show the community you started with your transparency about where you're at. As a watcher of quite a few car KZbin channels, it's quite rare and special.

[@OilBaron100]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. It is the only VANOS information source that I have found so far, that actually instructs how to open the pistons up to replace the bearings inside.

[@50sKid]

There is definitely one other guy who has the same video. His video was actually making me hold off on making my own video for a long time because I felt I couldn't add anything to the topic, but I guess it's a matter of people just finding the videos to begin with on KZbin at this point.

[@2091Ted]

Thank you for this VERY helpful video! I was having a helluva a time getting my VANOS removed.

[@Mutubeish]

Iam this close to buying a e46, found a few video on youtube. This is my first video from your channel, but it wasa so good and fun to watch so i sub :D Thanks for the great video and channel! Best regards!

[@ivanm.3522]

Very nice video as usual. I would say that adding the engine sound before and after the job would be the cherry on top of the cake. Thanks!

[@therealjpow]

Per usual, another great video! Just picked up my second e46 so this repair will be in the near future!!

[@andybraamawitz9395]

You are a true gentleman. Thank you for making this video.

[@oscarmonge6797]

I love your videos man, you make everything look so easy. Thank you for sharing.

[@JimStroiney]

Thanks for all of your DIY videos and advice! My 2001 330i with 230K miles appeared to be on its last legs. I looked up check engine light codes, fixed a couple of things, but still wasn't able to pass VA inspection. Took it to a reputable shop and they said I needed a new Vanos for $2500. With your videos, I was able to methodically work through the repair myself and passed inspection on Fri. My long-time friend will continue to be my favorite car to drive for hopefully many more years to come!

[@danielfairhurst7622]

Great stuff! always have thorough and easy to understand videos that are good quality which makes things so much easier to understand, thankyou!!

[@nzjemountfort]

Just letting you know, you have a following way over in New Zealand - on a BMW forum, some people don't even own e46's but they still watch it for entertainment :)

[@50sKid]

That is awesome! Thanks so much

[@Funkyflykiwi]

Bimmersport?

[@nzjemountfort]

@@Funkyflykiwi you know it !

[@amjedmurshed6887]

A real professor illustration. I enjoy your DIYs

[@qiushiji7483]

I have just bought my first car and it's a E46 328Ci with 44000km. Have just known that this VANOS issue would be probably come after 10tkm. This video is so kind and it makes the repair looks like so easy to do. Thanks a lot.

[@MrBeGuud]

Excellent video. Great addition to the DIY's available for the BMW society.

[@brenex-ym2id]

Had trouble finding the right parts, thanks so much for these links!!

[@paulz2843]

Gonna start saving for an e46 ur video made it look fun to work on this car

[@ThreeDimGraphics]

Thanks to you I've already replaced almost half of my car myself :D Thank you! :)

[@NickoSupra]

Getting my E46 330 this Saturday, great videos. Feels like i will be able to do this with ease, watching your videos.

[@rickh1634]

Thanks for this vid - did mine today and it was a breeze with your help.

[@Royjacksonjr]

Man, you rock. Ty for taking the time to explain all this.

[@dave.sanger1726]

Going to do this in a couple of weeks.great video as usual . Many thanks.

[@michaelarredondo30]

Great video man. I'll be doing this next month. I appreciate you posting the links for gear in your summary info.

[@50sKid]

+Peaceful Weapon You read the description! I can't believe it, lol.

[@jbe4022]

Thanks for video, just succesfuly finished this job on E39.

[@johnkw2129]

Thanks, Very nice video for the Vanos, as usual it's clear, good light, I don't understand all because I'm French but your videos have already helped me a lot. Thanks for what you do, it should help a lot of people because you do it well.

[@GriftyMcPants]

Very grateful for this video. Good job, 50sKid!!!

[@arnolduk123]

Great video guide. At 35:30 "It know's it's gonna loose"..LOL I love that!

[@tarzan30809]

Thank you! with your videos my 325i is running great. Hope you are doing well

[@shahrukhmuhammad6664]

I keep watching your videos even though I own E38, but I enjoy your informative video.

[@donaldknee5770]

I’m so thankful you make all these videos. I have a 05 330I I gave to my daughter used, got it back with 150k and now has everything wrong with it😳😳😳 these videos will get me through, thanks.

[@M-E-G-A]

Wow! I really like the the 50’s Kid emblem you have. She’s all I want!

[@kentm111]

..." it might be a little cold for me today so I might need to stretch it out"... we've all been there mate !!

[@ryanc6767]

as always, great and informative vids...very thorough and informative!!!!

[@hondaman1316]

Hey man just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to show us how to fix the e46 I for one have saved a ton of money thanks again

[@50sKid]

thanks!

[@oscararnesen699]

Hey man! Watching your videos everyday, to memorize the steps for any upcoming repairs. What inspired you to do make these videos? Keep up the good work!!

[@El91637]

You are a gifted teacher.

[@mr.recruiterp3583]

Excellent tutorial. Just rebuilt my double Vanos using Besian seals. Note: Be careful tightening the small fit bolt (reverse thread) as I snapped one of them. Had my torque wrench set to 6 ft lbs but it must be off. Waiting on two new bolts but I'll hand tighten as you've shown on the video. Other than that, every is going smoothly.

[@JavierPonceification]

Good video, good explanation!

[@ProcessandStrategy]

Just a great informative detailed video. Thanks!

[@williamgreen9280]

Great video. I feel ready to tackle this job

[@alfrednavarro2391]

I'm waiting on my order of the VANOS rebuild kit and the Camshaft sensors to overhaul. I greatly appreciate your videos.

[@nerondog]

Thank’s 50kids, all your BMW videos are very helpfull

[@samiam830]

No kidding. I’m so so happy. I’m literally in tears knowing I can’t pay someone, but I’m great at following instructions. Your videos keep food on the table for all of us.

[@samiam830]

I really appreciate these 330i videos

[@HeavyReign12]

Struggling college student, I live with my parents but literally have no money. Feel like I don't deserve to drive a BMW everyday, and I wouldn't if it wasn't for detailed diy stuff. I can't even get the most simple of repairs done at a mechanic. Whenever I watch 50s kids videos I feel way better, because in the moment it doesn't look too bad, and I know I'll be able to keep my 330 running. It's all worth it.

[@willied581]

I've been watching all of your videos thanks man very big help

[@Andrewlone174]

Best channel for BMW E46 fans.

[@roman11t32]

your valve cover gasket video got me subscribed

[@scottwhitlow7304]

my check engine light is on, and came up as intake vanos over advanced, i noticed it also has a rattling sound, i have significant power loss at 2500-3k rpm and terrible gas mileage, im going to be following ur video step by step, and hopefully the rebuild will fix my issue, thanks for posting sir!

[@kilo54]

Thanks for doing this vid. I'm about to do mine too. It's starting to make noise. I've noticed the lack of power on driving from a dead stop. It's been happening the last 8 weeks or so. The idle has been fluxuating too.

[@_J.P._]

8:55 you can use painters masking tape for that :) the ones that have folded foil/shield attached to the tape. Simply attach the band to the engine and stuff around it and then unfold the foil/shield over all the parts you want to have clean. You can throw a rag or multiple tissues onto that installation of yours so the unwanted oil won't run down the foil but rather stick to the fabric for easier removal of excessive oil :)

[@chiralhome]

you should have quadruple the views/subscribers.... your videos are really really good.

[@oiygfdxssfgg]

Great video, thanks for posting it.

[@chuckhei]

Thank you very much! I have watched most of your videos since I subscribed your channel last week!

[@tonygerace4432]

awesome job dude. Makes me think its something I can tackle.

[@50sKid]

It really is pretty easy!

[@capicapuchino5675]

Thanks for the awesome Video, I placed the order for the Dual Vanos Kit and will get it doe next weekend

[@joacimfinnberg366]

This was very helpfull, repaird my vanos whit help from this video👍🏻

[@DanielEvansMusic]

He wiped out half the universe. Gonna take a lot to rebuild.

[@12vgs8606]

I don't even have a BMW but I am watching this in earnest. Kid does a great job on showing how to do these kind of jobs. I got hooked on after he posted his first Odyssey video. I do get scared of my resolve to pick a used BMW when I see his plethora of BMW videos :-)

[@50sKid]

+12vgs8606 Nice, I appreciate the loyalty!

[@abrolovesyall6920]

Hey where can I get those needle bearings for a 2004 BMW X3?

[@LuisSantos-pt9ud]

I have to tell u TNKS FOR TAKE YOUR TIME AND DO THIS VIDEOS FOR US....TNKS A LOT

[@SaravanaKumar53]

awesome video dude. good work done.

[@1960livvy]

Great Video's, very well put together and super informative - Thanks

[@herrerafoto]

Another AWESOME video! Thank you professor!!!

[@earlmoorhead5555]

Hey wanted to tell you how this video helped me I had a knock around 2500 rpm sounded like a rod knock but if I floored it the noise would go away I figured that I would replace this valve due to the post on noise from the vanos and look at the chain thinking it was somewhere in there I ordered a complete unit from ecstunning I installed it after watching you videos and now the noise is gone and the power is so much better thanks for the videos helps a lot

[@Tool0GT92]

I have a 2000 323i with 85K, hopefully the major repairs like VANOS rebuild, CCV, and the oil gaskets on not in my near future. I like to watch all these videos, these cars are so fun to learn about.

[@neonjaguar09]

This was a good video, while I am not as heavy on BMW knowledge as the poster is. It still made me that I could easily accomplish this myself.

[@ppppugh7892]

Can't believe this has been 4 years since you made this. I'm onto e90 now but you and I worked e46 together for years!!! I know the e46 inside and out (not M3), including bodywork, exhaust systems, suspension, drive, engine and some comfort electrics. However, the braking system, good as it may be when working perfectly, it is prone to occasional abs error despite maintenance. I say this as it is a potential dangerous system where the abs can activate and lock on a bend (different wheel speeds detected). Yes- resulting in a crash.

[@brianwoodard233]

Love your videos too you really explain things well

[@jjaybarber]

The outside sqare rings are Teflon and the orings are expanders to give pressure on the Teflon. similar to seals in a transmission for pistons and shaft seals

[@bertsbug5757]

You are the man..... damn I thought I was just going to replace my valve cover gasket doesn't look like that now LOL

[@davedemars7793]

Hey, great video. Many have been very helpful. Do you have a video on replacing timing guides? I am wondering if it is possible. Without taking off the head?