BMW P1396

What P1396 means on a BMW

On BMW vehicles, P1396 is logged when the ECU detects a fault in the camshaft / VVT: “Crankshaft Position Sensor Segment Timing Plausibility”. P1396 is a manufacturer-specific BMW code (the "1" after the letter marks an OEM-defined code), so its meaning applies to BMW and may differ on other makes.

Common causes & symptoms

Typical triggers for a camshaft / VVT code like P1396 include faulty or ageing sensors, wiring/connector faults, a clogged or removed component, or a value drifting outside the ECU's expected window. Symptoms range from a check-engine light only, to limp mode, rough running, higher consumption or failed emissions tests.

P1396 and ECU tuning

When a BMW has had hardware changed for off-road/motorsport use (for example a removed DPF or EGR), the related monitor must be disabled in the ECU map or the code re-appears. Softechpro Solutions performs DPF/EGR/AdBlue/DTC off and recalculates the checksum, so codes like P1396 stay cleared after the flash. Genuine faults should always be repaired, not just hidden.

Related BMW codes