P0013

What the Code Means

Code P0013 points to a fault in the electrical circuit of the exhaust camshaft VANOS solenoid on Bank 1. It's the exhaust-side counterpart to P0010. The engine control unit (DME) detects an open or short in the circuit, which prevents exhaust camshaft timing from being adjusted.

The VANOS (Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung) system changes camshaft position to optimize power, torque, and emissions. The VANOS solenoid controls oil flow to the actuator. With a faulty circuit, the DME can't adjust exhaust timing, which affects how the engine runs.

Symptoms

• Engine: rough idle, loss of power, especially at low rpm.
• Warning lights: Check Engine Light (CEL) comes on.
• Driving: increased fuel consumption, higher emissions.
• Conditions: symptoms may be constant or appear only in certain operating modes (for example, during warm-up).

Diagnosis and Repair

Step 1: Read the Codes

Connect a diagnostic tool (ISTA, INPA) and read all stored fault codes. Confirm that P0013 is active.

Step 2: Check Solenoid Resistance

Disconnect the exhaust camshaft VANOS solenoid connector on Bank 1. Measure resistance across the terminals with a multimeter. Spec: 7–12 ohms. If resistance is out of range, the solenoid is bad.

Step 3: Inspect Wiring and Connectors

Check the wires from the DME to the solenoid for continuity and the connectors for corrosion. Ring out the circuit if needed.

Step 4: Replace the Solenoid

If resistance is out of spec or the wiring checks out, replace the VANOS solenoid. BMW part number: 11367579071. After replacement, clear the codes and take a test drive.

Common Mistakes

• Replacing the solenoid without checking the wiring (the problem is often in the connector).
• Ignoring other VANOS codes (such as P0010 or P0014).

Secondary Problems

Ignoring P0013 leaves the exhaust camshaft stuck in its base position. That throws off valve overlap, which causes:

• Rough running and increased fuel consumption.
• Unburned fuel entering the exhaust system, which can eventually damage the catalytic converters.

Replacing catalytic converters costs far more than fixing the VANOS solenoid. Deal with the fault at the first symptoms.