2A87

What the Code Means

2A87 points to a sticking intake VANOS solenoid. The solenoids control oil flow to the VANOS units, which adjust camshaft timing. While the solenoid works, the DME meters oil pressure to the unit precisely and holds the camshaft at its calculated position.

Over time, oil varnish builds up inside the solenoid. The spool valve starts moving late or sticks, and the control module loses command of cam timing. The problem is common on the N52, N54, N55 and other engines, and it ties directly to missed oil changes or low-quality oil.

Symptoms

Engine and Behavior

• Reduced power.
• Rough idle.
• Hesitation under acceleration.
• Cold-start rattle.
• Misfires, especially at low temperatures — below 40 °F.

Warning Lights and Fuel Economy

• Check Engine Light comes on.
• Worse fuel economy.

Diagnosis and Repair

Step 1. Confirm the Code

Read fault codes with an INPA or ISTA scanner and confirm 2A87 is present.

Step 2. Check the Oil

Check oil level and condition. If it's off spec, change it.

Step 3. Clean the Solenoids

Remove both VANOS solenoids (intake and exhaust), clean them with a dedicated cleaner (Brakleen or electronics cleaner, for example), and blow them out with compressed air.

Step 4. Cross-Check

After cleaning, swap the solenoids — intake into the exhaust spot and vice versa. If the fault moves to the exhaust side, the solenoid is bad and needs replacement.

Step 5. Replace the Solenoid

If cleaning didn't fix it, install a new solenoid. OEM part numbers: 11367585425 for the intake and 11367585426 for the exhaust on many models.

Step 6. Related Checks

• Inspect the VANOS seals and replace them if worn.
• Check the solenoid wiring and connectors for damage.

Step 7. Finish Up

Reset the VANOS adaptations after the repair.

Common Diagnostic Mistake

Replacing the solenoid without checking the oil — a new solenoid will varnish up again fast if old oil is the root cause.

Secondary Damage

Ignoring the fault starts a chain of consequences:

• Accelerated wear on the VANOS units and timing chain from running with disrupted cam timing.
• Camshaft damage from incorrect synchronization.
• Higher oil consumption.
• Shorter overall engine life.
• In rare cases, a broken timing chain.

Don't put the repair off: the last link in that chain — a snapped timing chain — is one of the most expensive kinds of damage.