SES Light: Codes a Plenty

[mrvco]

My Service Engine Soon light lit up this week and based on what I found on the Internet, it sounds like I may have a sensor or two that needs to be replaced.

However, when i called to schedule an appointment with my local BMW mechanic, he told me that based on these codes, to take the car to the dealer to have the ECM reprogrammed.

I don't necessarily mind taking the car to the dealer since I paid up for a bumper-to-bumper extended warranty when I bought the car (based on previous experience w/ an E36 328is), but does this make any sense that reprogramming the ECM would be the solution?

Motor Control:
Engine / Motor
Fault: Valvetronic, eccentric shaft sensor: guide
Code: 2A31
Fault: Valvetronic, eccentric shaft sensor: Plausibility
Code: 2A47
Fault: Exhaust Vanos variable cam control test, mechanical
Code: 2A87
Fault: Thermo-oil sensor
Code: 2F9E

ABS / DSC / Brake:
Dynamische Stabilitaets Kontrolle / DSC
Fault: Speed Sensor Front Right
Code: 5DA3
Fault: Speed Sensor Front Left
Code: 5D93

Instrument cluster:
Instrument cluster / Kombiinstrument
Fault: Shutdown
Code: A559

[RoundelM3]

Yes, actually...when you replace sensors, you have to also re-program the ECU to recognize the new sensors. Seems strange, but I had an E92 335i that had a steering-angle sensor go out and the replacement process required a re-flash. Same thing when an intake manifold sensor went out on my wife's 128i. I suspect that some or all of the sensors responsible for the engine and brake codes above need replacing, but not sure about the instrument cluster - that one might just be a bad bulb or something.

[mrvco]

Thanks, a different independent BMW mechanic was able to replace the VANOS sensors on my E36 (nearly 15 years ago now), but it sounds like BMW's electronics have outpaced the ability of the independents to keep up.

[mrvco]

Two VANOS solenoids and the shaft sensor replaced w/ the obligatory diagnostic fee and oil change.