This procedure covers the replacement of a single Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid on the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, typically the bank 1 intake solenoid which is most accessible.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• VVT solenoid (cam phaser solenoid) × 1 — Motorcraft CX2293 or equivalent
• VVT solenoid O-ring seal × 1 — Often included with solenoid

Fluids

• Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend — 0.25 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
3. Identify which VVT solenoid needs replacement using diagnostic trouble codes (P0011, P0012, P0021, P0022)
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on clips
5. Clean area around target VVT solenoid to prevent debris entry

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the VVT solenoid
   The VVT solenoid is mounted on the cylinder head near the front of the engine. For Bank 1 Intake (most common), locate the solenoid on the driver side front of the engine, mounted vertically into the cylinder head. It will have a single electrical connector and single mounting bolt.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press down on the connector lock tab while pulling the electrical connector straight away from the VVT solenoid. Do not pull on wires. If connector is difficult to remove, use a small flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the lock tab while pulling.
3. 3

   Remove VVT solenoid mounting bolt
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the single bolt securing the VVT solenoid to the cylinder head. Keep bolt for inspection and potential reuse if in good condition.
4. 4

   Extract VVT solenoid
   Firmly grasp the solenoid body and pull straight out from the cylinder head. Some twisting motion may help break the O-ring seal. Be prepared for a small amount of engine oil to drain from the mounting bore. Place oil drain pan beneath work area and catch any spillage with shop towels.
   ⚠Do not pry against cylinder head casting as this can cause damage
5. 5

   Inspect mounting bore
   Use a shop towel to clean the solenoid mounting bore in the cylinder head. Check for metal debris, sludge, or excessive contamination. Heavy contamination may indicate internal engine issues or extended oil change intervals. Remove old O-ring from cylinder head if it remained in the bore.
6. 6

   Prepare new VVT solenoid
   Remove new VVT solenoid from packaging. Verify new O-ring is properly seated in the groove on the solenoid body. Lightly coat the O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation. If O-ring was separate, install it into the groove on the new solenoid and lubricate with clean engine oil.
7. 7

   Install new VVT solenoid
   Carefully insert the new VVT solenoid straight into the cylinder head bore, ensuring proper alignment. Push firmly until the solenoid seats completely against the cylinder head face. The mounting bolt hole should align properly when fully seated.
   ⚠Do not force or cross-thread the solenoid. It should insert smoothly with only O-ring resistance
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting bolt
   Thread the mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper threading. Using a torque wrench, tighten the VVT solenoid mounting bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage the solenoid housing or strip threads in the aluminum cylinder head.
   Torque spec

   VVT Solenoid Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the VVT solenoid until you hear and feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the connector if desired for corrosion protection.
10. 10

    Check engine oil level
    Remove engine oil dipstick and check oil level. Add oil if needed to bring level to the full mark. Some oil loss during solenoid removal is normal. Use Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend oil only.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine cover by pressing firmly on mounting clips until seated
2. Reconnect negative battery cable and tighten securely
3. Clean any spilled oil from engine bay surfaces

Verification

• Start engine and verify no oil leaks around VVT solenoid installation
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and check for leaks again
• Use diagnostic scan tool to clear VVT-related trouble codes
• Test drive vehicle and verify smooth operation without rough idle or hesitation
• Re-scan for trouble codes after test drive to confirm repair was successful
• Monitor engine oil level over next few days to ensure no ongoing consumption

More procedures for this vehicle