P1553 fault code: what it means

P1553: Crankshaft and exhaust camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

stretched timing chain
faulty exhaust VANOS unit or solenoid
faulty camshaft sensor

P1553 by make

BMW

Crankshaft and exhaust camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS.

Usual causes: stretched timing chain; faulty exhaust VANOS unit or solenoid; faulty camshaft sensor

Land Rover

Idle air control valve closing circuit fault.

Usual causes: faulty idle air control valve; wiring fault

Mini

Crankshaft and exhaust camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS.

Usual causes: stretched timing chain; faulty exhaust VANOS unit or solenoid; faulty camshaft sensor

Nissan

Battery current sensor signal higher than the alternator can produce. Smart charging control is disabled.

Usual causes: battery current sensor; wiring fault; aftermarket accessory wired to the battery negative

What the repair usually costs

A/C compressor replace incl. drier and flush (European)NZ$1,560–NZ$3,200 · A$1,490–A$3,050
Timing chain, tensioner and guides (4-cylinder)NZ$1,120–NZ$2,530 · A$1,160–A$2,570
Timing chains and tensioners (V6 / V8)NZ$1,890–NZ$4,080 · A$1,920–A$4,110

Not sure what P1553 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.