How long does variable valve timing (VVT) take?
A good car is no accident. For an engine to run smoothly, many different parts must work together. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) is largely dependent on how your vehicle idles and…
A good car is no accident. For an engine to run smoothly, many different parts must work together. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system depends a lot on how your car idles. This system has both a solenoid and a switch that help regulate the amount of pressure the system senses. Oil pressure in a car is very important, which is why there are so many different components designed to regulate it. The VVT switch senses the amount of oil supplied to the variable valve timing system and then sends this information back to the engine computer.
Like other sensors and switches in your vehicle, the VVT switch is designed to last a lifetime. Engine heat is what usually causes repair problems for this part of the car. Another common cause of damage to this switch is irregular oil changes. The presence of thick and slurry oil can seal this switch and make it nearly impossible to do the job it was designed to do. Making sure your car's oil is changed is also important to keep your engine running properly.
The first sign that this switch is failing is when the Check Engine light comes on. Once this light comes on, you will need to pick up your vehicle to perform a diagnostic check. The mechanics will have the equipment needed to extract the trouble code from your OBD system. This will help you determine what the problem is and make the appropriate repairs.
Below are some warning signs that your VVT switch is failing:
- Engine runs very rough
- Fuel economy starts to decline
- Vehicle will not idle without shutdown
Without this switch to help regulate the oil flow to the VVT system, it will be almost impossible to achieve the performance you expect from your engine. Have a certified mechanic replace the faulty camshaft switch to fix any further problems with your vehicle.
