[ctglass]

So I got a few codes this morning after a period of hard acceleration. P2AAF, P2A87, P3100, H2FDB. All seem like they could be related to an issue with the VANOS solenoids?

My car is a 2008 335xi with N54 and I am not sure if these have ever been replaced, so mine could still be the older discontinued part. Therefore I have decided it is likely easier to replace, rather than try to clean them.

So I know I will need two new ones, part number 11367585425, which go for $116/ea on GETBMWPARTS. My question is.. has anyone used an aftermarket brand for this part? I see the Dorman 917-241 Variable Valve Timing Solenoid on Amazon for $73/ea and I'm pretty sure there are a few other on eBay.

http://www.amazon.com/Dorman-917-241.../dp/B00HEDHJ9Q

So should I spring for the OEM or can I get away with the cheaper ones? Thanks!

[ctglass]

Anyone with any input? Need to pick one or the other here soon...

[Mezzy113]

Originally Posted by ctglass

So I got a few codes this morning after a period of hard acceleration. P2AAF, P2A87, P3100, H2FDB. All seem like they could be related to an issue with the VANOS solenoids?

My car is a 2008 335xi with N54 and I am not sure if these have ever been replaced, so mine could still be the older discontinued part. Therefore I have decided it is likely easier to replace, rather than try to clean them.

So I know I will need two new ones, part number 11367585425, which go for $116/ea on GETBMWPARTS. My question is.. has anyone used an aftermarket brand for this part? I see the Dorman 917-241 Variable Valve Timing Solenoid on Amazon for $73/ea and I'm pretty sure there are a few other on eBay.

http://www.amazon.com/Dorman-917-241.../dp/B00HEDHJ9Q

So should I spring for the OEM or can I get away with the cheaper ones? Thanks!

I guess you could always get away with cheaper parts as long as the manufacturer is reputable and the source is legit.

I recently replaced mine as well and decided to go OEM simply because I am not so much concerned with the cheaper product initially performing it's function, more so it's longevity vs OEM.

I can't personally speak on Dorman since I have never purchased any of their products but I would go OEM in this case. Just my opinion

[ctglass]

Appreciate the input! I think I'm going to go OEM as well. Found these two threads below that make it sound like there are some key differences in the cheaper parts:

http://************/pzawwfq
http://************/ov7dp8z