Over time the Vanos unit on your S54 engine can adapt to your driving habits and this can lead to a lack of performance. In order to return the original power, you must clear the Vanos adaptions. Our Schwaben scan tool works perfectly for this. We are performing this on our 2003 E46 M3, and the procedure will be the same or very similar on most BMW models. Clearing the engine’s adaptions is especially important when tuning or flashing your vehicle, as it is like starting from ‘square one.’ This will allow your engine to re-learn certain timing changes and trims for your current driving style.
1: Switch the ignition on (do not start engine) and plug the scanner into the OBDII port
2: Select “BMW”
3: Select “BMW” again
4: Select “enter VIN”
5: Using the keyboard enter the last 7 digits of your VIN
6: Select the vehicle that you are working on
7: Select “Control Units”
8: Select “Drive”
9: Select “Engine-DME Motor Electronics MSS54”
10: Select “Clear adaption values”
11: Select “Clear Vanos Adaptation”
12: Click “F3” to clear the adaptation
13: Click the “Back” button and you Vanos Adaptation is now complete
E46 M3 Vanos valve activation
To perform certain functions on your s54 Vanos unit certain valves must be advanced or retarded. With our Schwaben scan tool, you can retard or advance your Vanos valves. We are performing this on our 2003 E46 M3, and the procedure will be the same or very similar on most BMW models.
1: Switch the ignition on (do not start engine) and plug the scanner into the OBDII port
2: Select “BMW”
3: Select “BMW” again
4: Select “enter VIN”
5: Using the keyboard enter the last 7 digits of your VIN
6: Select the vehicle that you are working on
7: Select “Control Units”
8: Select “Drive”
9: Select “Engine-DME Motor Electronics MSS54”
10: Select “Component activation”
11: Scroll down and Select “VANOS valves”
12: Select what valve you would like to retard or advance
13: With the engine at a standstill click the “F3” button to activate the valve
14: Click the “F2” button to deactivate the valve
