1998 BMW 318 Sensor Malfunctions

KLS

MEMBER
1998 BMW 318
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
93,000 MILES

About 4 weeks ago I took my car to the local (Oregon) DEQ test center. All emissions were within acceptable ranges and I left with my new vehicle registration. Three times since my check engine light has come on. I finally was able to run the diagnostic and the list included "Camshaft position sensor malfunction" "O2 Sensor" and "Bank Sensor." Is it possible that one or all of these could be related to the visit to DEQ? I know nothing about automobiles so am easily taken advantage of when it comes to repairs. Will these sensors all need to be replaced, or is there some other logical explanation that should be explored and eliminated first?
Thank you SO much for any suggestions. I hate to go to the mechanic totally uninformed.

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The faults are indications of a sensor intermittently setting a fault, and/or at that mileage a possible failure. The first thing I recommend is to clear the faults and see if they return. If the cam sensor fault returns, I recommend replacement of the cam sensor. The Oxygen sensor, if original equipment, might be in need of replacement. BMW gives a 100,000 mile lifespan for the O2 sensor, however I have seen failures at lesser and greater mileages, which is why I would clear the faults first, and then deal with them if they return. I would disregard "bank sensor" as an issue at this time.