Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Repair Costs
Below are the typical repair costs for different VVT solenoid services. Labor rates calculated at $125/hour.
Intake VVT Solenoid Replacement
Parts Cost:$75-150
Labor Time:1-1.5 hours
Labor Cost:$125-187.50
Total Cost Range:$200-337.50
Exhaust VVT Solenoid Replacement
Parts Cost:$75-150
Labor Time:1-1.5 hours
Labor Cost:$125-187.50
Total Cost Range:$200-337.50
Both Intake and Exhaust VVT Solenoid Replacement
Parts Cost:$150-300
Labor Time:1.5-2 hours
Labor Cost:$187.50-250
Total Cost Range:$337.50-550
Note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Some luxury or high-performance vehicles may have higher parts costs. Additional repairs may be necessary if related components are damaged.
Common Signs You Need VVT Solenoid Replacement:
- Check Engine Light
- Rough Idle
- Poor Engine Performance
- Decreased Fuel Economy
- Engine Rattle on Startup
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Repair Guide
Here's a step-by-step guide for repairing VVT solenoids based on their location:
Intake VVT Solenoid Repair
Tools needed:Socket set, torque wrench, new gaskets, cleaning supplies
- Allow engine to cool completely
- Locate the intake VVT solenoid (typically on the front of the cylinder head)
- Disconnect the electrical connector
- Remove mounting bolts (usually 10mm or 12mm)
- Carefully remove old solenoid and gasket
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new gasket and solenoid
- Torque bolts to manufacturer specifications
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Clear engine codes with scanner
Exhaust VVT Solenoid Repair
Tools needed:Socket set, torque wrench, new gaskets, cleaning supplies
- Allow engine to cool completely
- Locate exhaust VVT solenoid (usually near rear of engine)
- Remove any components blocking access
- Disconnect electrical connector
- Remove mounting bolts
- Extract old solenoid and gasket
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new gasket and solenoid
- Torque bolts to manufacturer specifications
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall any removed components
- Clear engine codes with scanner
Important Notes
Common symptoms of failed VVT solenoids:
- Check Engine Light
- Rough idle
- Poor acceleration
- Decreased fuel economy
- Engine noise
Cautions:
- Always use OEM or high-quality replacement parts
- Don't reuse old gaskets
- Ensure proper torque specifications are followed
- Check oil condition and level before and after repair
Note: Specific repair procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for exact specifications and procedures.
Average repair time:1-3 hours depending on vehicle model and solenoid location
Understanding Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoids
A Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid is a crucial engine management component that controls the timing of the engine's valves by regulating oil flow to the camshaft actuators. This sophisticated system helps optimize engine performance across different operating conditions.
Types of VVT Solenoids
1. Intake VVT Solenoid
What it is:The Intake VVT Solenoid controls the timing of the intake valves by managing oil pressure to the intake camshaft phaser.
What it does:
- Adjusts when intake valves open and close
- Improves low-end torque
- Enhances fuel efficiency
- Reduces emissions at lower speeds
2. Exhaust VVT Solenoid
What it is:The Exhaust VVT Solenoid regulates the timing of exhaust valves by controlling oil flow to the exhaust camshaft phaser.
What it does:
- Controls exhaust valve timing
- Helps reduce emissions
- Improves engine breathing
- Optimizes exhaust gas recirculation
3. Mid-Position VVT Solenoid
What it is:Found in some advanced engines, this solenoid provides an intermediate valve timing position for enhanced control.
What it does:
- Offers more precise valve timing control
- Provides additional optimization points
- Enhances overall engine efficiency
- Helps achieve better performance balance
Benefits of VVT Solenoids
When functioning properly, VVT solenoids provide several key benefits:
- Improved fuel economy
- Better engine performance
- Reduced emissions
- Smoother engine operation
- Enhanced power output
Important Note:Regular maintenance and timely replacement of faulty VVT solenoids are essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and preventing potential engine damage.
Common Signs and Symptoms of VVT Solenoid Failure
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid: Signs of Failure & Maintenance
Common Signs of VVT Solenoid Failure
Check Engine Light
One of the first indicators of VVT solenoid issues is an illuminated check engine light, often accompanied by codes P0010 to P0014.
Poor Engine Performance
You may experience:
- Rough idling
- Decreased acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
- Engine stalling
- Difficulty starting the engine
Unusual Engine Noises
Listen for:
- Rattling sounds during cold starts
- Clicking or ticking noises from the engine
- Chain or belt noise due to improper timing
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection
Most manufacturers recommend inspecting VVT solenoids every 60,000 to 80,000 miles as part of routine maintenance.
Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are crucial for VVT solenoid health:
- Change oil every 5,000-7,500 miles
- Use manufacturer-recommended oil grade
- Clean oil helps prevent solenoid clogging
Preventive Maintenance
Consider these preventive measures:
- Clean VVT solenoids every 100,000 miles
- Replace if showing signs of wear or failure
- Inspect electrical connections during routine service
Note: Specific maintenance intervals may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your owner's manual for exact specifications.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
