P1554 fault code: what it means

P1554: Crankshaft and intake camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS before replacing sensors.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

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

P1554 by make

BMW

Crankshaft and intake camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS before replacing sensors.

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

Mini

Crankshaft and intake camshaft out of step. Check the timing chain and VANOS before replacing sensors.

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

Nissan

Battery current sensor output lower than expected while the battery voltage is high. Smart charging control is disabled.

Usual causes: battery current sensor; wiring fault; poor earth or battery terminal

What the repair usually costs

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 P1554 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.