[Aaronms29]

So currently I’m having these two codes
2A87 - DME: Exhaust VANOS, mechanism.
3100 - DME: Boost-pressure control, deactivation.

I’ve swapped the solenoids and the problem followed to the intake side and I received this code.

2A98 - DME: Crankshaft - inlet camshaft, reference.
2A9A - DME: Crankshaft - inlet camshaft, synchronization.
3100 - DME: Boost-pressure control, deactivation.

So I replaced the solenoid with a new one and started receiving the codes for the exhaust again..

I highly doubt that the other solenoid went bad, so I’m ruling out the solenoid’s atm. I think I remember someone mentioning another sensor other than the solenoids.

I also replaced the oil filter with new o rings and the cage was on the cap so that shouldn’t be the issue unless some how it fell off. I used a MANN filter aswell which is OE

Please don’t say cam ledges id like to rule everything else out first.

[Aaronms29]

gbalthrop

[NZE90]

What brand were the new solenoids?

Have you checked the VANOS filters/check valves?

[gbalthrop]

Originally Posted by Aaronms29

So currently I’m having these two codes
2A87 - DME: Exhaust VANOS, mechanism.
3100 - DME: Boost-pressure control, deactivation.
I’ve swapped the solenoids and the problem followed to the intake side and I received this code.
2A98 - DME: Crankshaft - inlet camshaft, reference.
2A9A - DME: Crankshaft - inlet camshaft, synchronization.
3100 - DME: Boost-pressure control, deactivation.
So I replaced the solenoid with a new one and started receiving the codes for the exhaust again...
I also replaced the oil filter with new o rings and the cage was on the cap so that shouldn’t be the issue unless some how it fell off. I used a MANN filter aswell which is OE...

You first reported the 2A87 Fault on 7/5 after replacing the Alternator Voltage Regulator (which corrected an Over-voltage issue).

QUESTIONS:
1) What did you remove or disconnect to replace Voltage Regulator?
2) Did you remove the alternator to replace the Voltage Regulator, or leave it in place?
3) Have you checked the VANOS Solenoid Connector Pins/Sockets & also the Cam Position Sensor Connector Pins/Sockets for any corrosion, looseness, wiring issues, etc.?
4) If MHD is only Scan Tool/ Diagnostic Software available, please check its Documentation AGAIN to see if it can display LIVE DATA. I don't have an N54 or MHD, but my recollection is that I have seen folks post LOGS of data using MHD. A "Log" is a view of selected "Live Data" Parameters (such as Cam Angles, Target Values, ECTS Signal, RPM).

Since the 2A87 & 2A98 Codes suggest at least Intermittent Cam Angle Deviation from "Target" Cam Angle (as requested by DME), we need to see that Live Data, or at least a Log of that data, to see if the "Deviation" occurs at hot idle, higher RPM (e.g. 2,000 RPM), etc.

High likelihood that if NO VANOS error BEFORE Alternator Repair, something was done then that is causing current codes. As you seem to know, 3100 Boost De-activation is Secondary to VANOS codes, and NOT something to diagnose separately. If NO VANOS faults, then normal Boost.
George

[Aaronms29]

So the issue was actually a dirty camshaft position sensor there was some grime on it and a metallic looking grease? Or metal particles? Is it normal for the sensor to pick up some metal? It wasn’t much at all really it looked like a silver sharpie mark around the base of the sensor. Thanks for the help again gentlemen, as of now the car is running fine with no codes.

[gbalthrop]

Thanks for taking the time to let us know what you found. Best wishes for Thousands of MILES of happy motoring.
George