BMW E9X 328i N52 VANOS Sprocket Bolt Recall DIY

**UPDATE** these cars along with some newer model years have been officially added to the recall. See the post here for all of the info.
g87.bimmerpost...
Here is a video about replacing the VANOS sprocket bolts that are known to fail and sheer off in vehicles with N52 motors produced between September of 2009 and November of 2011. Most cars will have an active recall (14V-176) and BMW will replace these bolts free of charge. Call your local dealership and have this done as soon as possible. Hopefully, your car is covered.
Unfortunately, E91 cars, while listed under the recall, do not ever seem to have the recall applied to them. Again, verify with your local dealership as to whether or not your vehicle is covered but it is unlikely. If you are replacing you valve cover gasket, eccentric shaft sensor, etc. then it is a good idea to go ahead and replace these bolts because if they do fail, you will be looking at a very expensive fix that most likely will not be covered by BMW if you have an E91.
Here is the part number for "updated" bolts which can be purchased anywhere. You will need a total of eight bolts (four bolts for each VANOS assembly) but I suggest purchasing a few extra since they are cheap and even these updated bolts are stupid soft.
11368602263
Bimmerworld
www.bimmerworl...
FCP Euro
www.fcpeuro.co...
Here is the service bulletin (SI B11 07 14) about the recall with some more information as well as the fix/remedy procedure. I tried to follow this as best as I could with the tools that I have.
static.nhtsa.g...
Keep in mind. The bulletin mentions that if none of your bolts are found loosened or broken, then the bolts can be replaced one at a time; which is what I did. However, if any bolts are found broken or loose, the bulletin mentions replacing the Vanos unit. Keep this in mind. You may or may not have to reset the timing if any of your bolts were loose or broken but you probably should if you aren't going to replace the Vanos unit(s).
You will need the following along with other standard tools such as ratchets/extensions:
T45 security torx drivers/sockets of various lengths (make sure you get the security style with a hole in the center; here is an Amazon affiliate link: amzn.to/3TrTWSP (You will need to use these a long with a 1/4 socket)
You can also grab these (amzn.to/3Trq2hH) which is what I used in the video, however, take note that these are non-security torx...so they can only be used to install the new bolts which do not have the dot in the middle.
High-temp/Oil-safe Loctite or other brand thread locker (here is an amazon affiliate link: amzn.to/3v3SKvB)
Small torque wrench that measures in inch pounds
Breaker bar or long ratchet
22mm socket (for crankshaft bolt)
Here is a link to part 1 of my Valve cover gasket/eccentric shaft sensor DIY
• BMW E9x 328i N52 Valve...
Good Luck!