Camshaft Variable Control Unit Repair Costs
BMW VANOS Unit Repair
Typical repair service: 4-5 hours labor ($500-625) plus parts ($200-300)
Total estimated cost: $700-925
Mercedes-Benz Camshaft Adjuster
Typical repair service: 3-4 hours labor ($375-500) plus parts ($250-350)
Total estimated cost: $625-850
Audi/VW Timing Chain Tensioner
Typical repair service: 5-6 hours labor ($625-750) plus parts ($300-400)
Total estimated cost: $925-1,150
Porsche VarioCam
Typical repair service: 6-7 hours labor ($750-875) plus parts ($400-500)
Total estimated cost: $1,150-1,375
Note: These are estimated costs based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle model, year, and specific repair requirements. Additional parts or repairs may be necessary upon inspection.
What's Included:
- Complete diagnostic assessment
- Removal and reinstallation of components
- Replacement of necessary parts
- System testing and verification
- 90-day warranty on labor
Common Camshaft Variable Control Unit Repair Procedures
BMW VANOS Unit
Repair Steps:
- Remove engine cover and necessary components to access VANOS unit
- Remove timing chain cover
- Lock crankshaft and camshafts in their service position
- Remove VANOS solenoids and sealing rings
- Extract VANOS unit from cylinder head
- Disassemble unit and replace worn components:
- Seals
- O-rings
- Piston rings
- Helical gears if worn
- Reassemble unit with new components
- Reinstall and time engine correctly
- Perform computer adaptation
Mercedes-Benz Camshaft Adjuster
Repair Steps:
- Remove timing chain cover
- Set engine to TDC position
- Remove camshaft position sensors
- Remove adjuster solenoid
- Extract camshaft adjuster assembly
- Replace internal components:
- Actuator seals
- Control valve
- Sprocket assembly if needed
- Reinstall with new timing chain if required
- Reset timing and verify proper operation
Audi/VW Variable Cam Timing Unit
Repair Steps:
- Remove timing belt/chain covers
- Lock engine at TDC
- Remove cam adjuster bolt
- Extract adjuster unit
- Replace components:
- Tensioner seals
- Solenoid valve
- Screen filter
- Clean oil passages thoroughly
- Reinstall with new timing components
- Perform ECU adaptation
Toyota VVT-i System
Repair Steps:
- Remove valve cover
- Lock engine timing
- Remove VVT controller
- Disassemble unit
- Replace worn components:
- Lock pin
- Springs
- Seals
- Filter screen
- Clean all oil passages
- Reassemble and reinstall
- Reset ECU parameters
Important Notes:
- All repairs require specialized tools and expertise
- Timing must be set precisely to avoid engine damage
- Oil quality and maintenance history affect unit longevity
- Computer diagnostics and adaptation usually required after repair
- Some manufacturers recommend complete unit replacement rather than repair
Disclaimer: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary by model and year. Professional repair is recommended due to the complexity and precision required.
Understanding Camshaft Variable Control Units

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Common Failure Symptoms of Camshaft Variable Control Unit (VVT Solenoid)
Signs of Camshaft Variable Control Unit Failure & Maintenance Guide
BMW VANOS System
Common Signs of Failure:
- Cold start rattle or rattling noise at idle
- Loss of power at low RPM
- Rough idle or stalling
- Check Engine Light with VANOS-related codes
- Poor fuel economy
Service Schedule: Inspection recommended every 60,000 miles or if symptoms occur. Seals typically need replacement between 70,000-120,000 miles.
Mercedes-Benz Camtronic
Common Signs of Failure:
- Engine misfire
- Decreased performance
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Unusual engine noise
Service Schedule: No specific service interval; repair/replace as needed. Inspection during regular service recommended.
Audi/VW Variable Cam Timing
Common Signs of Failure:
- Timing chain rattle on startup
- P0011 or P0021 error codes
- Poor acceleration
- Reduced fuel efficiency
Service Schedule: Inspection recommended at 80,000 miles. Timing chain tensioner update may be required on earlier models.
Toyota VVT-i System
Common Signs of Failure:
- Engine ticking noise
- Poor idle quality
- Reduced power output
- Oil pressure warning light
Service Schedule: Regular oil changes crucial for system health. Inspection recommended at 100,000 miles.
Honda VTEC System
Common Signs of Failure:
- VTEC not engaging
- Check Engine Light with VTEC-related codes
- Oil pressure switch failure
- Unusual noises during VTEC engagement
Service Schedule: Regular oil changes essential. VTEC solenoid cleaning recommended every 100,000 miles.
Note: All service intervals are approximate and may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle model, and manufacturer recommendations. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
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.