The intake valve timing and duration can be infinitely adjusted using the BMW Valvetronic technology, which combines variable valve lift and variable valve timing. The method obviates the need for a throttle body when used frequently and promises to increase fuel economy and pollutants.
Valvetronic was first used by BMW in 2001 on the 316ti small and has subsequently been incorporated into many of the company’s engines. The N55 engine was the first turbocharged engine to use this technology.
In This Article...
Describe Valvetronic. Innovative Throttle System from BMW
BMW frequently uses the phrase “Valvetronic” in their press releases, however it is rarely explained to the general public. Without completely comprehending how it functions or what it eventually does for our automobiles and for us, we have all grown accustomed to it.
On their Youtube channel, the staff at Engineering Explained took the effort to explain the Valvetronic technology.
Here is a brief explanation of the Valvetronic technology and how it functions before we watch the video. A variable valve timing system called Valvetronic provides continuous and exact control over the duration and variable intake valve lift, which ranges from 0.3 to 9.7 mm (0.18 to 9.9 mm for Valvetronic II and III).
The independent Double VANOS system, which continuously alters the timing, is frequently used in conjunction with it (on both intake and exhaust camshafts). Instead of a butterfly valve in the intake tract, engines with valvetronic rely on the amount of valve lift for load control. In other words, when driving normally, the “gas pedal” controls the throttle plate rather than the Valvetronic hardware.
The intermediate arms (lift scaler), a second pair of rocker arms used in Valvetronic cylinder heads, are positioned between the valve stem and the camshaft. Through the use of an additional, electronically controlled camshaft, these intermediate arms are able to swivel around a central axis. The intake valves’ lift can be changed by this movement alone, without the aid of the intake camshaft, from fully open, or maximum power, to practically closed, or idle.
The Valvetronic system can only be briefly described in words, however the movie below goes into more detail and includes some graphics.
How do I reset the valvetronic motor in my BMW?
Connect the valvetronic motor’s 2 pin plug and insert it. The valvetronic motor will automatically reset to factory specifications after you turn the ignition to position 2 and depress the accelerator pedal 10 times in a span of 15 seconds.
Valvetronic exhaust: what is it?
An exhaust system’s ability to regulate gas flow, sound frequency, and overall performance is made possible by valvetronic technology. As a result, the sports car may produce more horsepower at higher RPMs and more torque at lower RPMs. Generally speaking, drive modes, OEM buttons, remote controls, or remote controls can all be used to engage the exhaust valves. Additionally, Fi EXHAUST has created the “Fi EXHAUST Pro” mobile app for smartphones running the Google Android and Apple iOS operating systems. The App is simple to install and gives additional customization choices, including setting up Auto Mode based on RPM/Speed/Turbo, default valve mode on engine start-up, and many more features to let a driver get the most enjoyment out of their vehicle.
Modern technology has always been important to Fi EXHAUST, and we are constantly looking for new ways to incorporate it into our products. That is why “Intelligent” is highlighted in both our full and condensed brand names to direct our future work and keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This also includes creating software, such as a mobile app, that work with the hardware and enhance how well our products are used.
This ongoing development and incorporation of the most recent technology has distinguished us from the competition and given drivers access to an intelligent exhaust system in addition to a distinctive sound note. Drivers can fiddle with custom features using our clever control box and the Fi Pro App. Examples include customizing what physical buttons on a new 2-button form remote control do, or automatically detecting and clearing a Check Engine Light (CEL) associated with the catalytic converter on specific car models.
Is driving possible without Valvetronic?
The dme disables valvetronic with the valves at maximum lift when it detects valvetronic not functioning properly. Even with valvetronic off, the vehicle still handles well.
Describe BMW VVTI.
Variable valve timing is used in the majority of modern German vehicle engines, including those from BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen. This makes it possible to balance and adjust a car’s engine for both efficiency and performance (fuel mileage). The engine control module (ECU/DME) in your BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Porsche, or Volkswagen has programming that adjusts the engine valve timing (when the valves open and close) based on driving conditions. Depending on how the vehicle’s ECU/DME is designed, this optimization automatically and continually modifies the valve timing to fit operating conditions (rpm/load). It can either improve fuel efficiency or engine performance.
Depending on the manufacturer and engine, several implementations are used. The continuously variable cam controls used by today’s modern systems typically control an oil solenoid valve from the ECU/DME while detecting and adjusting the cam position using actuators and sensors. In contrast to earlier implementations of variable valve timing, modern systems manage both the position of the intake and exhaust camshafts, allowing for separate control over when air enters the combustion chamber and when exhaust is released.
BMW’s VANOS system, which stands for variable Nockenwellensteuerung in German and controls both the intake and exhaust camshaft timing, is one of the most complicated systems currently supported. BMW originally made the single VANOS system that controls the intake valves available in 1999. In today’s technology, the intake and exhaust valves are both controlled by a double VANOS system.
Although variable valve and camshaft timing technology is used by all manufacturers to provide greater and more efficient performance, it does have a cost. You must periodically change your oil and keep the recommended engine oil. The timing control actuators will develop oil and dirt deposits, which will lead to check engine lights and subpar operation. This is frequently followed by a “rattle” sound coming from the front of the engine on the BMW VANOS system. It’s crucial that the car professionals you select for Austin BMW repair or servicing are familiar with the VANOS system. You may be confident that our automotive staff is informed about VANOS and variable valve timing if you choose German Auto Center.
Remember that modern German performance vehicles, whether you drive a Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, or Audi, will only operate to their best capabilities if they are properly maintained and serviced. Every 7,500 miles, don’t forget to maintain your engine and have the oil changed by the pros at German Auto Center (5,000 for turbo charged and super charged engines).
To make sure that your engine management system is functioning properly, get routine Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, and Audi service in Austin. Simply stop by German Auto Center in Austin, Texas, where we are specialists in German auto repair, and we will be pleased to help you.
Describe the BMW DME.
If you are familiar with our blog, you are aware that we work with Mercedes on a regular basis. It is crucial to understand that we also work with BMWs. We are quite knowledgeable about how BMWs, including the 550i, 335i, 4 series, and beyond, operate. The BMW DME, sometimes referred to as an ECU, ECM, or PME, is a crucial component of your car. In essence, the engine of the car is controlled by the onboard computer. To make an engine function more smoothly, we frequently change the computer. Extra horsepower and available torque can be unlocked by making it run more smoothly. We can also assist if your BMW ECU is damaged or malfunctioning, though. We have spent years analyzing and fixing these items, therefore we are quite experienced with them. We’re here to assist you strengthen your car!
Why do Valvetronic engines malfunction?
Between the valve stem and the camshaft, a second set of rocker (intermediate) arms are used in valvetronic engines. An additional, electronically controlled camshaft allows these intermediate arms to revolve around a central axis (eccentric shaft). The intake valve lift can be changed from fully open to practically closed by this action alone, independent of any movement of the intake camshaft.
In theory, the system is incredibly effective. The problems start later in the life of the vehicle when components deteriorate from improper or delayed maintenance. The BMW N42 Eccentric shaft system is shown in the diagram below since it is by far the most straightforward. The latest BMW V8s use the same method.
Over time, the eccentric shaft and rockers deteriorate, resulting in either poor running or a misfire in the car. These rockers are so perfectly constructed that each one is given a unique number. A replacement shaft is then purchased from BMW using this number.
The main causes of valvetronic failure are frequently improper maintenance or aftermarket oil filters. The aftermarket oil filter on the right side has begun to crumble, as seen in the image above. This results in a decrease in oil pressure and has a significant impact on how quickly the valvetronic system wears down because it isn’t receiving enough oil to keep everything properly lubricated. We specifically utilize genuine BMW oil filters because of this.
Every time we service a Valvetronic engine, we replace the needle bearings (shown), eccentric camshaft, whole set of rockers, oil filter, and oil change with engine oil that is in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications (often over looked elsewhere). Timing chains and intake camshafts may need to be replaced on engines with substantial damage.
These Valvetronic engines are repaired with specialized equipment. At Grosvenor, we make significant investments in tooling to guarantee that every repair we perform is flawless.