Original BMW VANOS Screw Plug with Gasket Ring for BMW 3 Series, 525i, 528i, M3, and Z3 (1992–2000)

Threaded into the front of the VANOS unit, this Original BMW screw plug with gasket ring closes the access hole for the exhaust camshaft sprocket bolts on M50, M52, S50, and S52 six-cylinder engines in the 3 Series, 525i, 528i, M3, and Z3. BMW's name for it is "screw plug with gasket ring," and the sealing ring comes with the plug. Each plug weighs 30 grams and is sold individually. This plug is made in Germany. BMW shows production starting in September 1992.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

VANOS is BMW's variable camshaft timing system, which uses engine oil pressure to change the timing of the camshaft while the engine runs. Because the unit is pressurized with oil, any plug threaded into it relies on its sealing ring to hold that oil inside. This particular plug sits on the face of the VANOS unit and gives access to the exhaust cam sprocket bolts. The same plug is used across these four engine families, from the early M50 in the 1992 325i through the S52 in the M3 and Z3 M models.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 11-31-1-722-674
• BMW part name: screw plug with gasket ring
• Position: front of the VANOS unit, over the exhaust cam sprocket bolts
• Includes: gasket ring
• Weight: 30 g (1.06 oz)
• Production start: September 1992
• Country of manufacture: Germany
• Sold as: one piece
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

Does the plug come with a new seal?
Yes. BMW supplies this part as a screw plug with its gasket ring.

What is behind this plug?
It covers the access point on the front of the VANOS unit for the exhaust cam sprocket bolts.

PMB carries the factory VANOS hardware for these six-cylinder BMWs.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm year, model, submodel, and application notes before ordering. PMB Performance can confirm this against your VIN, backed by more than 20 years of parts and fitment work.