The engine of vehicles is very complex and many small and large parts work together in it. One of the important parts among these parts is the VVT ​​Solenoid which helps in improving the performance of the engine. This small part controls the flow of oil in the engine and determines the time of opening and closing of the valve. When the VVT ​​Solenoid works properly, the engine of the vehicle runs well. But when it is bad, many problems can occur in the vehicle. In this article, you will get all the necessary information about VVT Solenoid.

What is VVT Solenoid?

VVT Solenoid is an electronic valve that controls the flow of oil to the camshaft of the engine. VVT means “Variable Valve Timing”. Its main function is to adjust the time of opening and closing of the engine valve. In this way it improves the performance of the engine and reduces fuel consumption.

The VVT ​​Solenoid receives signals from the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and works accordingly. When the vehicle is moving fast, the VVT ​​Solenoid changes the valve timing to give the engine more power. Then when the vehicle moves slowly, the VVT ​​Solenoid adjusts the valve timing in such a way that fuel consumption is reduced.

Apart from this, the VVT ​​Solenoid also reduces the pollution emitted from the engine. Thus it is also beneficial for the environment. Nowadays, almost all new vehicles have VVT ​​Solenoid installed as it improves the performance of the engine.

Symptoms of VVT Solenoid Failure

Like other parts, the VVT ​​Solenoid can also fail over time. When it fails, many problems can appear in the vehicle. By recognizing these symptoms, you can replace the VVT ​​Solenoid in time. Here are some major symptoms:

• Engine check light comes on: The first and most common symptom is the engine check light coming on. When the VVT ​​Solenoid is faulty, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) detects it and turns on the Check Engine light.
• Poor Engine Performance: When the VVT ​​Solenoid is faulty, the engine power decreases. It is difficult to accelerate the vehicle and the engine feels weak.
• High Fuel Consumption: Due to a faulty VVT Solenoid, the engine uses more fuel. This reduces the mileage of the vehicle and increases the fuel cost.
• Rough Engine Running: When the VVT ​​Solenoid is faulty, the engine may run irregularly. Sometimes the engine runs intermittently or suddenly speeds up.
• Strange Sounds from the Engine: Due to a faulty VVT Solenoid, the engine may make a ticking or rattling sound. This sound is especially heard more when the engine is cold.
• Difficulty Starting: Sometimes when the VVT ​​Solenoid is faulty, there may be trouble starting the vehicle. The engine of the vehicle does not start quickly or stops after starting.
• Excessive smoke: When the VVT ​​Solenoid is damaged, more smoke may come out of the exhaust of the vehicle. This smoke can be white, black or blue.

As soon as these symptoms are seen, a mechanic should be contacted. Replacing the VVT ​​Solenoid in time can avoid major problems.

Causes of VVT Solenoid Failure : 

• Dirty or old engine oil: VVT Solenoid works through engine oil. If the engine oil becomes dirty or old, dirt can accumulate in the VVT ​​Solenoid and it is unable to work properly.
• Oil filter problem: The job of the oil filter is to keep the engine oil clean. If the oil filter gets damaged, the dirty oil reaches the VVT ​​Solenoid and damages it.
• Electrical problems: VVT Solenoid works on electronic signals. If there is any problem in its wires or the electrical connection is damaged, then the VVT ​​Solenoid will not work properly.
• Wear and tear over time: Any machine gets old and breaks down over time. VVT Solenoid is no different. Its parts can get damaged due to constant use.
• Heat and vibration: The engine gets very hot and vibrates constantly. This heat and vibration can also cause VVT ​​Solenoid to break down.

To make VVT ​​Solenoid last longer, one should change engine oil regularly and take proper care of the engine.

Tips for Replacing VVT Solenoid : 

1. Select the correct VVT Solenoid: There are different VVT Solenoids for every vehicle model. Therefore, buy VVT Solenoid according to your vehicle model. The correct VVT Solenoid can be found by looking at the vehicle manual or asking a mechanic.
2. Seek professional help: Replacing the VVT ​​Solenoid can be a bit complicated. If you do not know much about vehicles, it would be better to seek help from a professional mechanic.
3. Change the engine oil as well: While replacing the VVT ​​Solenoid, the engine oil and oil filter should also be changed. New oil will help the new VVT Solenoid to work properly.
4. Check the connections: After installing the new VVT Solenoid, check all the electrical connections. All wires should be properly connected.
5. Reset the engine check light: After installing the new VVT Solenoid, do not forget to reset the engine check light. An OBD scanner can be used for this.
6. Test drive: After replacing the VVT ​​Solenoid, test drive the vehicle to see if everything is working properly.

The VVT ​​Solenoid is a small part but it plays a very important role in the performance of the vehicle’s engine. It controls the timing of the engine valves, which increases the power of the engine and reduces fuel consumption. When the VVT ​​Solenoid malfunctions, many problems can occur in the vehicle such as the engine check light coming on, poor engine performance, high fuel consumption and strange noises coming from the engine. VVT Solenoid should be checked as soon as these symptoms are seen.

For the proper care of VVT Solenoid, it is necessary to change the engine oil regularly, use good quality oil and change the oil filter regularly. By taking care of these things, you can make your vehicle’s VVT Solenoid last longer. It is very important to take care of VVT Solenoid in vehicle maintenance. This will not only make the vehicle run well but will also save fuel and reduce pollution.