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DTC codes / BMW codes / P1533

P1533 · BMWB Camshaft Position Actuator Control Circuit Signal Low Bank 2

This code means the engine computer (DME) has detected a low signal on the control circuit for the bank 2 B camshaft position actuator, which is the variable valve timing solenoid that adjusts the exhaust camshaft on the bank of cylinders that does not include cylinder 1. The computer expects a specific voltage or current on the actuator control wire when commanding the camshaft to advance or retard, and a low signal indicates the circuit is shorted to ground, open, or the actuator itself is drawing too much current.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeBMW specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Rough idle or uneven engine operation, especially when cold
  • Reduced engine power or sluggish acceleration due to incorrect camshaft timing
  • Poor fuel economy or increased emissions
  • Occasional stalling or hesitation when coming to a stop
  • A noticeable rattle or ticking noise from the front of the engine if the actuator is stuck

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty bank 2 B camshaft position actuator solenoid (vanos solenoid) with an internal short or open coil
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring harness connector at the actuator, often due to oil contamination or heat
  3. Chafed or broken wire in the actuator control circuit between the DME and the solenoid
  4. Oil sludge or debris blocking the solenoid screen, causing excessive current draw and a low signal
  5. Failed engine computer (DME) driver circuit for the actuator, though this is rare
  6. Poor engine ground connection affecting the actuator circuit reference

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for stored codes and verify P1533 is current; check for related camshaft position sensor codes that might indicate a timing issue
  2. Inspect the bank 2 B camshaft actuator connector and wiring for corrosion, oil intrusion, or physical damage; clean and repair as needed
  3. Measure the resistance of the actuator solenoid with a multimeter and compare to BMW specifications; replace if out of range
  4. Check the control circuit for a short to ground or open using a wiring diagram and continuity tests; repair the harness if faulty
  5. Swap the bank 2 B actuator with a known-good unit from the same engine (if accessible) to see if the code moves, confirming a faulty solenoid
  6. Perform a voltage drop test on the actuator power and ground circuits while commanding the actuator with a scan tool; repair high resistance connections
  7. If all circuits and the actuator test good, diagnose the DME driver circuit or replace the DME as a last resort

Oil sludge and wiring often fool technicians

  • A low signal code is frequently set by a solenoid that is mechanically stuck due to sludge, not by an electrical failure, so cleaning or replacing the solenoid often resolves it without touching the wiring.
  • The bank 2 B actuator on many BMW engines is the exhaust camshaft VANOS solenoid, and a failure can mimic a timing chain issue, leading to unnecessary expensive repairs if the code is not diagnosed first.
  • Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket or camshaft seals can wick into the actuator connector, causing intermittent low signal codes that only appear after the engine is hot or during damp weather.
  • A weak battery or charging system fault can cause the DME to misreport actuator circuit voltages, so always verify battery voltage and ground integrity before condemning the solenoid.
  • After replacing the actuator, the DME may need to relearn the camshaft adaptation values; failing to clear adaptations can cause the code to return even with a new part.

Can I keep driving with P1533?

You can usually drive the car short distances to a repair shop, but avoid aggressive acceleration or sustained high speeds because incorrect camshaft timing can cause poor performance and increased emissions. If the engine runs rough or stalls, stop driving and have it towed to prevent further damage.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for BMW vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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