If you're experiencing hard starting, flaky charging, or other electrical issues, your engine ground strap may be the culprit. On older BMWs, the engine ground strap is a thin, non-insulated cable that spans from the engine mount arm to the frame horn. Despite the seemingly simple nature of this part, on older cars, it is known to cause massive headaches. Due to its non-insulated design, years of exposure to water, dirt, and road salt will cause the wire to corrode, ultimately leading to complete failure. A break in this cable will cause an open circuit, resulting in issues with the vehicle's electrical system and potentially leading to a no-start condition.

To solve this issue, ECS has engineered an exact-fit, upgraded ground strap for your BMW! Unlike its OEM counterpart, this design features insulated, large-gauge copper wire for dependable conductivity and long-lasting durability. Additionally, factory-style lugs are zinc-coated, crimped, and soldered, ensuring protection against corrosion and oxidation.

Whether you're replacing a visibly corroded strap or proactively preventing failure, this solution from ECS is sure to provide lasting performance and protection.

FEATURES

Direct-fit replacement and upgrade for E30 (318i/is), E36, E39, E46, and others Solves intermittent grounding issues caused by aging OEM straps Clean, stealthy design that fits seamlessly in factory engine bays Factory length and lug orientation for drop-in fitment 2 AWG tinned copper cable for excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance Zinc-coated lugs, crimped and soldered to resist moisture and oxidation Black UL1015-grade insulation withstands oil, heat, and abrasion Discreet ECS label for a clean, OEM+ look Replaces OEM part numbers 12421737755 and 12421714262.

The main reason all of the VANOS units will eventually fail is because the material used for the sealing rings from the factory is not designed for that type of environment. When this happens the only option that BMW leaves you with is buying a new and expensive VANOS unit with the same sealing rings that failed in your original unit.

The VANOS system found in BMW engines is a great feature (when it’s working properly), keeping your power curve smooth and responsive especially in lower to mid RPM range. What usually goes unnoticed is the gradual loss of power within this range as the vehicle's age due to slowly failing seals within the VANOS unit. The way the VANOS system works is based off of oil pressure triggered by a solenoid that allows for a small range of timing degree adjustment, this is where the power curve is affected. When the seals begin to fail (all of them do) there is less pressure to advance the timing reducing the power in that low to mid range. Because this happens slowly it's very hard to notice a difference until you refresh your VANOS unit, then you easily realize the response you've been missing.

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

While you're replacing the seals in your VANOS unit it a good time to install anti-rattle spacers to tighten up the gaps in your stock assembly and get rid of that noisy VANOS clatter.

Seals & O-rings:

The seals  were the main focus of this project since the OE units are built with Buna-N rubber o-rings instead of the ECS supplied Viton rubber o-rings. The Buna-N material quickly hardens from the heat and chemical exposure within the engine, where the Viton is significantly more resistant to these chemicals. This knowledge was also used when it came to the commonly failed o-rings found on the VANOS seal plate, replaced at the solenoid.

Rattle Repair:

When it comes to the VANOS rattle this is commonly described as "marbles in a can", and can be heard throughout the different RPM ranges depending on the engine. These upgraded rings and washers are precision ground from hardened steel to resist wear and deformation keeping your VANOS rattle free. The rattle repair tools are designed specifically for this VANOS anti-rattle repair, design from hardened steel to stand up to the job. Designed to perfectly follow the splines of the shaft for a tight grip when applying the necessary torque to disassemble & reassemble the VANOS transfer gear. The keyed socket was designed with the intent to use a "common" wrench so this can be completed at home in your garage.    

When Servicing your VANOS unit we recommend getting everything you need to replace on the way to service which includes an oil change and valve cover gasket set. Fresh oil and gaskets is the best way to start off a fresh rebuild of any kind giving you the maximum performance of your freshly serviced components.

Don't forget to check out our rebuild PDF to make sure you have everything to get the job done and eliminate the rebuild guess work.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
2000-2001 E46 3 Series M3 M3 Convertible 2000-2006 
2001-2002 Z3 Roadster / Coupe Z3 M Roadster Z3 M Coupe w S54 Engine 
2006-2008 E86 E86 Z4 Z4 M Roadster Z4 M Coupe

BMW E39 M5 S62 ECS VANOS Seal Kit

Revitalize your BMW E39 M5 S62 engine with the ECS VANOS Seal Kit, designed to restore peak performance and eliminate common Vanos system issues. Over time, the original seals in the Vanos units can harden and wear, leading to reduced hydraulic pressure and compromised cam timing control. Symptoms such as cold start rattle, erratic idle, and decreased torque output are common indicators of failing seals. ECS Tuning offers a cost-effective solution with their precision-engineered seal kit, crafted to OEM standards for reliability and durability.

Key Benefits:

• Rebuilds Vanos units to eliminate performance issues
• Precision-engineered seals ensure optimal cam timing control
• DIY-friendly with detailed installation guide for professional results
• Includes bronze impregnated Teflon seals and 70A Viton backing o-ring for enhanced durability and chemical resistance

Our Vanos seals were engineered in-house and precision machined to exacting tolerances to restore the original performance of the Vanos units.

Bronze impregnated Teflon seal for durable dynamic sealing.
70A Viton backing o-ring for extended chemical resistance, removing the OE failure point.

If you're not sure if your Vanos seals are bad then the only question you need to answer is if you've replaced them. Every unit from the factory came with the same failure prone o-rings and seals, even the re-manufactured units you can still get today. The only real fix is by replacing the seals and o-rings with material that is built to last in the oiled, extreme temperature environment found in these kits. 

A premium product replacement with easy to follow instructions makes rebuilding your Vanos unit a must. Even thought the power loss is barely felt it's the opposite result once you replace the seals, every car that gets rebuilt ends up wowing the customer and all of them saying they didn't realize what they lost. 

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
1999-2001  E38 BMW  740i 740il 
1999-2003  E39 BMW  540i 
1999-2003  E53 BMW  X5 4.4i X5 4.6i

If you're not sure if your Vanos seals are bad then the only question you need to answer is if you've replaced them. Every unit from the factory came with the same failure prone o-rings and seals, even the re-manufactured units you can still get today. The only real fix is by replacing the seals and o-rings with material that is built to last in the oiled, extreme temperature environment found in these kits. 

A premium product replacement with easy to follow instructions makes rebuilding your Vanos unit a must. Even thought the power loss is barely felt it's the opposite result once you replace the seals, every car that gets rebuilt ends up wowing the customer and all of them saying they didn't realize what they lost. 

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

This kit includes all the right seals and tensioner's for a thorough top end rebuild, this is the best way to rebuild the top half of your engine so you don't have to dig in there again and you can just enjoy the drive.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
1999-2001  E38 BMW  740i 740il 
1999-2003  E39 BMW  540i 
1999-2003  E53 BMW  X5 4.4i X5 4.6i

Oil venting and circulation continues to be a problem on BMW engines and now even more so on the turbocharged N54 and N55 engines. The existing stock system does a very poor job of separating fluid and vapor and this leads to an oily film or even small pools of oil throughout the turbos and intake. We're seeing a lot more 135 and 335 cars with drivability and performance issues because oil has sneaked by the ring seals and is coating the intake piping, intercooler, intake valves, and other critical areas. The problem is worsened with higher boost levels. Oil is excellent for lubricating moving parts but terrible when it gets into the combustion chamber, effectively lowering the octane rating and reducing performance. Our own shop has gone the extra step and offers media blasting of the intake valves to strip away the oily buildup we have seen.

Our shop also strongly recommends an oil catch can be installed in the line for the crankcase vent. The oil catch can traps oil as it leaves the valve cover and holds it in a canister. Whatever minimal vapors are left over in the oil is then vented back through the canister and into the intake where it is safe to be burned up in the engine or recirculated back through the system again. This is the way the system was designed! At each oil change simply unscrew the canister and empty the trapped oil with your regular used oil. A dipstick is integrated into the cap so you can monitor the oil level. Installing one of these will avoid costly repairs in the future and help maintain your boost and performance. It's one of the smartest modifications you can make because it demonstrates a well-thought out tuning strategy and care for the condition of your engine.

The ECS Oil Catch Can is made from aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish. Multiple brackets are available so you're not limited on where to mount it. The location is key as heat will evaporate the oil and send too much vapor back into the engine (where cooler air will turn it back into fluid). The ECS OCC also has a factory-like appearance.

Note: Since the crankcase vent system is considered part of the overall emissions system, installing this may be a violation of local, state, and federal laws. While exemptions are made for track/race and off-road use, check with your local state inspection facility on using this in street-driven vehicles.

ECS Oil Catch Can Features:
+ Increases air intake efficiency
+ Promotes engine longevity
+ 4 chamber design promotes excellent air/oil separation
+ Large In/Out ports (no tapered sizes that slow flow)
+ Anodized black lightweight aluminum
+ Made in USA

This item fits the following BMWs with the N54 twin-turbo engine:
2008-2010 E82 BMW 135i
2007-2010 E9X BMW 335i 335xi
2006-2010 E60 BMW 535i 535xi

There are a few reason having a catch can is an upgrade for a vehicle, from a separator system that no longer works to one that was never there. Modern day emissions regulations require the use of a closed crankcase ventilation (PCV) system to recirculate combustion blow-by gases from the crankcase back in to the intake to be burned.  Unfortunately, these blow by gases contain water vapor (which is a byproduct of combustion) and pick up oil mist from and the windage cloud and cam lubrication system as they travel through the crank case.  Due to less than 100% effective air/oil separation in the stock PCV system, some oil mist and water vapor gets carried back to the intake tract and over time cause oil deposits and carbon buildup in the intake manifold, intake ports, and on the back of intake valves.  All will eventually lead to poor performance and reduced fuel economy, and the presence oil mist can in the intake charge even increase the risk of engine damaging detonation. 

 The catch can utilizes a strategically designed 4 chamber baffle plate system engineered to create multiple changes in the direction of airflow to cause oil droplets to fall out of suspension, maximizing the efficiency of the PCV air/oil separation.  A dipstick is integrated into the cap so you can monitor the oil level, and the can is easily serviced.  At each oil change simply unscrew the canister and empty the trapped oil with your regular used oil.  The ECS Tuning Oil Catch Can is CNC machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish for lasting durability and appearance, and includes everything needed for an OEM-like fully reversible installation. 

The black anodized aluminum mounting bracket places the catch can in a location that looks like it should be there from the factory as well as pre-formed silicone hoses for a clean installation.

**Click here if you would rather build your kit using the Turner catch can & drain system**

*Modification is required to maintain installation of the OE engine cover, this is outlined in the installation PDF.

* The baffle system is designed to direct the flow clock-wise or counter clock-wise depending on your setup (each can can be adjusted to flow in either direction). 

Features:

• 6061-T6 billet machined body, anodized black for lasting protection and appearance
• Strategically positioned 4 chamber baffle system maximizes oil / air separation 
• Knurled and black anodized oil dipstick makes inspecting oil volume of reservoir clean and simple
• Sealed with a pre-installed viton O-Ring
• Includes 2.5mm allen key to remove baffle plates for cleaning
• Engineered to create multiple changes in the direction of airflow within the separator to cause oil droplets to fall out of suspension before exiting the catch can
• Closed / recirculated design reduces oil ingestion and promotes cleaner emissions and odor-less operation

Modern day emissions regulations require the use of a closed crankcase ventilation (PCV) system to recirculate combustion blow-by gases from the crankcase back in to the intake to be burned.  Unfortunately, these blow by gases contain water vapor (which is a byproduct of combustion) and pick up oil mist from and the windage cloud and cam lubrication system as they travel through the crank case.  Due to less than 100% effective air/oil separation in the stock PCV system, some oil mist and water vapor gets carried back to the intake tract and over time cause oil deposits in the intake manifold, intake ports, and on the back of intake valves.  All will eventually lead to poor performance and reduced fuel economy, and the presence of this oil mist in the intake charge may even increase the risk of engine-damaging detonation. 

With forced induction, track use, and/or extended high RPM usage, these symptoms increase as the factory PCV system is overwhelmed, and a catch can becomes a must for your E46 M3. This kit is a direct fit making this an easy reversal if desired as well as maintaining a clean appearance by utilizing the open "smuggler's compartment" on the passenger side of the engine bay.

ECS engineers developed a catch can that utilizes a strategically designed 4 chamber baffle plate system engineered to create multiple changes in the direction of airflow to cause oil droplets to fall out of suspension, maximizing the efficiency of the PCV air/oil separation.  A dipstick is integrated into the cap so you can monitor the oil level, and the can is easily serviced.  At each oil change simply unscrew the canister and empty the trapped oil with your regular used oil.  The ECS Oil Catch Can is CNC machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish for lasting durability and appearance, and includes everything needed for an OEM-like fully reversible installation.  

The ECS Oil Catch Can is made from aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish. The location is key as heat will evaporate the oil and send too much vapor back into the engine (where cooler air will turn it back into fluid). The ECS OCC also has a factory-like appearance. Having a kit designed specifically for your E46 M3 makes for a clean looking setup that any skill level mechanic can install. 

Note: Since the crankcase vent system is considered part of the overall emissions system, installing this may be a violation of local, state, and federal laws. While exemptions are made for track/race and off-road use, check with your local state inspection facility on using this in street-driven vehicles.

*Click here for installation instructions*

ECS Oil Catch Can Features:
+ Increases air intake efficiency
+ Promotes engine longevity
+ 4 chamber design promotes excellent air/oil separation
+ Large In/Out ports (no tapered sizes that slow flow)
+ Anodized black lightweight aluminum
+ Made in USA

This item fits the following BMWs
E46 M3 2001-2006

Enhance Your BMW Engine with WPC-Treated OEM Connecting Rod Bearings

Upgrade your BMW engine performance by choosing WPC-treated OEM connecting rod bearings, surpassing the advantages of Original BMW bearings. WPC surface treatment is renowned for its ability to reduce friction and enhance component strength. Through ultra-fine particle blasting at high speeds, this treatment ensures smoother and stronger surfaces by utilizing thermal discharge. Combatting the critical enemies of heat and friction, WPC-treated bearings offer superior performance for your engine build or rod bearing service.

Key Benefits:

• WPC-treated OEM connecting rod bearings for enhanced engine performance
• Reduction in friction and addition of strength through surface treatment
• Ultra-fine particle blasting results in smoother and stronger surfaces
• Mitigates heat and friction, critical for high-performance engines

If you're not sure if your Vanos seals are bad then the only question you need to answer is if you've replaced them. Every unit from the factory came with the same failure prone o-rings and seals, even the re-manufactured units you can still get today. The only real fix is by replacing the seals and o-rings with material that is built to last in the oiled, extreme temperature environment found in these kits. 

A premium product replacement with easy to follow instructions makes rebuilding your Vanos unit a must. Even thought the power loss is barely felt it's the opposite result once you replace the seals, every car that gets rebuilt ends up wowing the customer and all of them saying they didn't realize what they lost. 

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

This kit includes all of the sealing needs to get your engine and vanos back into shape. If you're looking to replace the tensioners while you're in there then the Complete Vanos Rebuild Kit is what you need.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
1999-2001  E38 BMW  740i 740il 
1999-2003  E39 BMW  540i 
1999-2003  E53 BMW  X5 4.4i X5 4.6i

These WPC-treated bearings are the best we have seen for the S62. WPC is a shot-peening treatment at a microscopic level. It's perfect for sensitive surfaces like bearings. The WPC treatment removes imperfections and high spots, while creating a surface that retains oil better than the original surface. This greatly reduces friction. The bearings in this kit are factory BMW bearings that are sent to WPC for treatment. The treated bearings are stronger with less metal fatigue and less friction than buying off-the-shelf bearings from the dealer.

Price is for a complete set of S62 upgraded rod bearings.

If you're not sure if your VANOS seals are bad then the only question you need to answer is if you've replaced them. Every unit from the factory came with the same failure prone o-rings and seals, even the re-manufactured units you can still get today. The only real fix is by replacing the seals and o-rings with material that is built to last in the oiled, extreme temperature environment found in these kits. 

A premium product replacement with easy to follow instructions makes rebuilding your VANOS unit a must. Even though the power loss is barely felt it's the opposite result once you replace the seals, every car that gets rebuilt ends up wowing the customer and all of them saying they didn't realize what they lost. 

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

While you're replacing the seals in your VANOS unit it a good time to install anti-rattle spacers to tighten up the gaps in your stock assembly and get rid of that noisy VANOS clatter.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
1992-1998 E36 BMW 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic M3 
1997-1998 E39 BMW 528i 
1997-1998 Z3 BMW Z3 2.8 
1998-2000 Z3 BMW M Roadster M Coupe

Baffled Catch Can for N20-powered BMW

The Baffled Catch Can for N20-powered BMWs is engineered to tackle carbon buildup issues in direct injection engines. This innovative solution intercepts oil particles from the PCV system, preventing the accumulation of carbon that impacts engine performance.

Key Features:

• Specifically designed for N20-powered BMWs
• Intercept oil particles to prevent carbon buildup
• Retains OEM BMW components while enhancing the system
• Effectively traps oil particles to maintain clean intake valves
• Engineered reservoir to capture oil particles from the PCV system