Original BMW Screw Plug with Gasket Ring for M52 and M54 VANOS Camshaft Adjuster, BMW E46, E39, E83, E53, Z3, and E85 (1998–2006)

This Original BMW screw plug with gasket ring, part number 11-36-1-438-338, seals a threaded port on the VANOS camshaft adjustment unit of the M52 and M54 six-cylinder engines in the E46 3 Series, E39 5 Series, E83 X3, E53 X5, Z3, and E85 Z4. VANOS is BMW's variable camshaft timing system. It is run by engine oil pressure, and plugs like this one close off its machined passages. The plug comes with its gasket ring, and that seal is single-use, so a plug that has been removed should be replaced and not refitted. It weighs 30 g and is finished with a chrome-free CR(VI) coating.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

The plug replaced the earlier part number 11-36-1-435-628, and BMW marks the change as exchangeable retrospectively. That means the current plug can go on cars originally built with the old number. BMW started production of the current version in June 1999. It is made in Germany. The same plug fits both the M52 and the later M54. A 323i, a 330xi, and a Z3 3.0i all take the same part.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 11-36-1-438-338
• BMW part name: screw plug with gasket ring
• Replaces: 11-36-1-435-628, exchangeable retrospectively
• Weight: 30 g
• Finish: chrome-free CR(VI)
• Production start: June 1999
• Made in Germany
• Sold individually with gasket ring
• Warranty: 24-month Original BMW Parts warranty

Common Questions

Can I reuse the plug's seal?
No. The gasket ring is one-time use, so fit a new plug after removal.

My parts book shows 11-36-1-435-628. Is this the right plug?
Yes. This number replaces it and fits cars built with the earlier plug.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm the exact year, make, model, submodel, and any application notes before ordering. PMB Performance has spent over 20 years matching parts to vehicles and can verify this against your VIN.