Mercedes X Klasse Diesel Engine Misfire Resolved

VANOS issues are fairly common. I had similar symptoms on my X Klasse, check engine light, higher fuel consumption. It turned out to be a VANOS solenoid. Did they check the VANOS solenoid?

They mentioned the VANOS solenoid. Is it a big job to fix? Is there any chance it's something simple?

It could be wiring, but it's likely the solenoid itself if they scoped it out. If you want to tinker, you could try swapping the VANOS solenoids, inlet and exhaust, and see if the code changes. But honestly, save yourself the headache and let them do it. It doesn't sound like a timing chain problem.

Thanks for the advice! I took it back to the shop. It turns out it was a faulty VANOS solenoid and a dodgy connection. They replaced the solenoid and fixed the wiring. Cost me 250€ all in, but it’s running great now!