P1017: Valvetronic Eccentric Shaft Sensor Plausibility (BMW/MINI)
6 vehicles · 1 makes · $150-$4,000 repair
Most Reported On
P1017 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Valvetronic Eccentric Shaft Sensor Plausibility (BMW/MINI).” P1017 is a manufacturer-specific code (meaning varies by automaker, but most commonly BMW/MINI) that generally indicates an implausible or out-of-range signal from the Valvetronic eccentric shaft position sensor, which the engine controller uses to monitor how far the intake valves are opening. When the reported shaft position does not agree with what the computer expects, it flags this plausibility fault. Because Valvetronic controls engine airflow, the engine often drops into reduced power until the fault is fixed. This code is most commonly reported on 2008-2013 BMW M3, 2017-2024 BMW M240i, and 2007-2017 BMW X3 (M40i, M50, xDrive35i), plus 3 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $150 to $4,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 8 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P1017, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (6)
VANOS Solenoid Wear and Failure
VANOS Solenoid O-Ring Failure
VANOS Solenoid Failure (S65 V8)
VANOS Unit Failure (S54 Double-VANOS)
VANOS Solenoid Failure (N52, N55 Engines)
N55 VANOS Solenoid Failure - 435i/440i F32/F33/F36
VANOS Seal Failure (M52/M54/S52)
N63 Valvetronic Motor Failure - F01/F02 750i/750Li
FAQ
What does P1017 mean?
P1017 stands for "Valvetronic Eccentric Shaft Sensor Plausibility (BMW/MINI)." P1017 is a manufacturer-specific code (meaning varies by automaker, but most commonly BMW/MINI) that generally indicates an implausible or out-of-range signal from the Valvetronic eccentric shaft position sensor, which the engine controller uses to monitor how far the intake valves are opening. When the reported shaft position does not agree with what the computer expects, it flags this plausibility fault. Because Valvetronic controls engine airflow, the engine often drops into reduced power until the fault is fixed.
What are the most common causes of P1017?
The most common causes of P1017 are: Engine oil leaking onto/into the eccentric shaft sensor (valve cover gasket), Faulty eccentric shaft position sensor, Wiring or connector damage at the sensor, Valvetronic motor or mechanical binding affecting position feedback, Oil contamination of the sensor connector, Control module fault (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1017?
Repair costs for P1017 range from $150 to $4,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P1017?
Au7o has documented P1017 across 6 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: BMW.
Sources (9)
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #10403412
- owner_forumBimmerFest - B58 VANOS Solenoid O-Ring Failure
- ForumBimmerpost M3Post - DIY/Discussion: S65 VANOS Solenoid Cleaning and Replacement
- NHTSANHTSA Vehicle Page for 2001 BMW M3 - Includes complaints related to VANOS issues
- videoYouTube: ECS Tuning - BMW E46 M3 S54 VANOS Repair and Rebuild Guide
- NHTSANHTSA Vehicle Complaints for 2007 BMW X3
- videoBMW N52 VANOS Solenoid Replacement - DIY Repair by FCP Euro
- ForumBimmerpost F30/F32 Forum - N55 VANOS Solenoid Fault Codes / Rough Idle Discussion
- ForumBimmerfest Forum - N63 Valvetronic motor failure on F01/F02 750i
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.