Sorry, slow response, been out of the country....
I've been afraid to drive my car since it's happened, I bought her to avoid shit like this! I friend of mine has the 2000 year 328i and after coninually stalling, the dealer installed a new Vanos unit under warranty.
I wanted to go into the dealer today, but, of course, thier service department is closed on Saturdays.
Now, if this is happening to ALL 328i's (E46), why wasn't there ever a recall. I mean, it's happened after the factory warranty expires (of course) and needs to be delt with. If all need replaceing and it isn't just a wear and tear issue, someone should start some sort of class action here. When I get the car checked on monday I'll see if I can find out anything from the tech, regarding how many 328i's have been fixed with this problem.
Damnit this sucks,
Dough