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Josss

BMW 3 Check Engine Light: Eccentric Shaft Sensor Codes 002850 & 002852

I own a 2003 BMW 3 with a gasoline engine and 280,000 km mileage. I'm experiencing issues with the check engine light. The diagnostic codes 002850 and 002852 appeared, and after cleaning the eccentric shaft sensor’s connection and clearing the codes, they still persist. The car drives fine with no warning lights. Should I replace the sensor? Additionally, I have code 002783, which disappears but returns after longer drives. Should I consider replacing the related component as well? Any advice would be appreciated.

5 comment(s)

CarlyMechanic

Before replacing the eccentric shaft sensor, check the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion, as these can cause persistent codes. For code 002783, inspect the VANOS solenoids for dirt or blockage, as they can affect performance and trigger codes. Clean them if necessary. If the issues persist after these checks, consider replacing the components. Keep me updated on your progress or if you have further questions.

CarlyMechanic

Quotation:

@Josss wrote on

Isnt the 002873 for maf?

Yes, code 002873 typically relates to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. Before replacing it, try cleaning the MAF sensor with a specialized cleaner, as dirt and debris can affect its performance. Ensure the air filter is clean and properly installed as well. Let me know how it goes or if you have more questions!

Josss (Author)

Quotation:

@CarlyMechanic wrote on

Yes, code 002873 typically relates to the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. Before replacing it, try cleaning the MAF sensor with a specialized cleaner, as dirt and debris can affect its performance. Ensure the air filter is clean and properly installed as well. Let me know how it goes or if you have more questions!

Because the first codes i cleaned the plug and checked the wires, they were fine. In the plug was a little bit of oil because the gasket around it leaks a bit but the cleaning didnt help the codes were still there if i checked. And i went for a short drive after clearing the codes and the maf code wasnt there, but it came back after longer drive. Again the car has no issues driving or has no lights. So i dont have to check the vanos solenoids? And if i unplug the maf then if the 002873 doesnt come back it’s faulty maf? And if the engine has no problems should i still change eccentric shaft sensor?

CarlyMechanic

Quotation:

@Josss wrote on

Because the first codes i cleaned the plug and checked the wires, they were fine. In the plug was a little bit of oil because the gasket around it leaks a bit but the cleaning didnt help the codes were still there if i checked. And i went for a short drive after clearing the codes and the maf code wasnt there, but it came back after longer drive. Again the car has no issues driving or has no lights. So i dont have to check the vanos solenoids? And if i unplug the maf then if the 002873 doesnt come back it’s faulty maf? And if the engine has no problems should i still change eccentric shaft sensor?

Since you've already cleaned the plug and checked the wires, and given the presence of oil, it might be worth replacing the gasket to prevent further oil contamination. For the MAF sensor, unplugging it can help diagnose if it's faulty; if the code doesn't return and the car runs better, it might indicate a MAF issue. However, if the engine runs fine and there are no warning lights, you might not need to replace the eccentric shaft sensor immediately. Keep monitoring the situation and update me on any changes or if you have more questions.

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