AutoCodesBMW – P1553 BMW

P1553 BMW Code - Crankshaft Exhaust Camshaft Correlation

Quick Answer

The purpose of the diagnosis is to detect when the camshaft reference position is outside the designed range relative to the engine position from the crankshaft and to detect a signal which is not valid. Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) Software, Faulty Variable Camshaft Control (VANOS) Solenoid. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P1553 BMW indicates Crankshaft Exhaust Camshaft Correlation .
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor, Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) Software, Faulty Variable Camshaft Control (VANOS) Solenoid.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 29,983
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 13, 2022
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Code P1553 BMW Description

The purpose of the diagnosis is to detect when the camshaft reference position is outside the designed range relative to the engine position from the crankshaft and to detect a signal which is not valid. The diagnostic strategy for inlet and exhaust camshaft is identical.
The detection of each camshaft position is done by an active hall sensor and a cam wheel, "3 asymmetric teeth". The camshaft sensor delivers 3 high and 3 low phases of different lengths per 720°CRK. The high or low pegel of the signal at the reference gap of the crankshaft signal determines the position of the engine within the combustion cycle. With that information, an engine position is calculated from the crankshaft position sensor within a range from [0 to 720]° CRK
OBDII Code P1553 BMW - Crankshaft Exhaust Camshaft Correlation  - AutoCodes.com
P1553 BMW Code - Crankshaft Exhaust Camshaft Correlation

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1553 BMW?

  • Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) Software
  • Faulty Variable Camshaft Control (VANOS) Solenoid

How to Fix the DTC P1553 BMW?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1553 BMW code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1553 BMW Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1553 mean on a BMW?

The P1553 code indicates a crankshaft-to-exhaust camshaft correlation issue, meaning the timing between the crankshaft and exhaust camshaft is out of sync.

2. What are the common symptoms of P1553 on a BMW?

Symptoms may include rough idling, engine misfires, reduced power, poor fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, and the check engine light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P1553 code on a BMW?

Common causes include a worn timing chain, a faulty camshaft position sensor, a damaged crankshaft position sensor, incorrect timing chain installation, or excessive timing chain slack.

4. Can a bad camshaft position sensor trigger the P1553 code?

Yes, a faulty camshaft position sensor can result in incorrect timing data, leading to the P1553 code being stored.

5. How can I diagnose the P1553 code on my BMW?

Diagnose the code by scanning for additional trouble codes, inspecting the timing components for wear or damage, and testing the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors.

6. Is it safe to drive with the P1553 code?

Driving with the P1553 code is not recommended, as engine timing issues can lead to further damage and reduced performance.

7. How do you fix the P1553 code on a BMW?

Repairs may involve replacing faulty sensors, repairing or replacing the timing chain, inspecting and adjusting timing components, or resetting the engine's timing.

8. Can the P1553 code be caused by low oil levels?

Yes, low or degraded oil can affect the performance of timing components, such as the timing chain tensioner, which may lead to the P1553 code.

9. How much does it cost to repair the P1553 code on a BMW?

Repair costs can range from $150 for sensor replacements to over $1,000 for timing chain repairs, depending on the extent of the damage.

10. Can clearing the P1553 code solve the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not resolve the problem, and the code is likely to return.

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