VVT Solenoid - Single

This procedure covers the replacement of a single Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid on the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, typically the intake or exhaust cam phaser solenoid.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• VVT solenoid × 1 — Use OEM Ford VVT solenoid specific to bank and position
• VVT solenoid O-ring × 1 — Usually included with solenoid

Fluids

• Motorcraft 0W-20 Full Synthetic — 0.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to clear fault codes and prevent electrical issues
5. Identify which VVT solenoid needs replacement: Bank 1 or Bank 2, Intake or Exhaust position

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove engine cover
   Grasp the plastic engine cover firmly and pull upward to disengage the grommet mounts. The cover is held only by push-in grommets and does not require tools to remove. Set aside in a clean area.
2. 2

   Locate target VVT solenoid
   The VVT solenoids are located on the front of each cylinder head near the timing chain area. Bank 1 is on the passenger side, Bank 2 is on the driver side. Intake solenoids are typically positioned higher than exhaust solenoids. Use the diagnostic trouble code to confirm exact location if replacing due to a fault.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press the tab on the VVT solenoid electrical connector and pull straight away from the solenoid. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself. If the connector is difficult to access, it may be necessary to move aside nearby wiring harnesses or hoses for better access.
4. 4

   Remove VVT solenoid bolt
   Using an 8mm socket with appropriate extension, remove the single bolt securing the VVT solenoid to the cylinder head. Keep the bolt in a clean location for reinstallation or replacement.
   ℹ️The bolt may have thread-locking compound applied from the factory
   Torque spec

   VVT Solenoid Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Extract VVT solenoid
   Carefully pull the VVT solenoid straight out from the cylinder head bore. It may require a gentle twisting motion to break the O-ring seal. Avoid tilting or angling the solenoid during removal to prevent dropping the solenoid or debris into the open bore.
   ⚠Do not allow the solenoid to drop or fall into the engine compartment - internal components could detach
6. 6

   Inspect bore and clean area
   Immediately cover the open VVT solenoid bore with a clean shop rag to prevent debris entry. Inspect the bore opening for oil residue, debris, or damage. Clean the mounting surface on the cylinder head with a clean rag and brake cleaner if needed. Remove the protective rag only when ready to install the new solenoid.
   ⚠️Never allow dirt, rags, or any foreign material to enter the VVT solenoid bore - this connects directly to the camshaft oil passages
7. 7

   Prepare new VVT solenoid
   Remove the new VVT solenoid from packaging and verify it matches the old unit in appearance and connector orientation. Inspect the new O-ring on the solenoid body for damage. Lightly coat the O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation and prevent tearing.
8. 8

   Install new VVT solenoid
   Remove the protective rag from the cylinder head bore. Align the new VVT solenoid with the bore and insert it straight in without tilting. Push firmly until the solenoid is fully seated and the mounting surface contacts the cylinder head. The solenoid should slide in smoothly with light resistance from the O-ring.
9. 9

   Install and torque solenoid bolt
   Thread the VVT solenoid bolt by hand to ensure proper threading and prevent cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use a torque wrench and 8mm socket to tighten the bolt to specification. Do not over-tighten as this can damage the solenoid housing or strip the aluminum threads in the cylinder head.
   Torque spec

   VVT Solenoid Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the VVT solenoid until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged by gently pulling on the connector body (not the wires). Ensure the wiring harness is routed properly and not in contact with hot exhaust components or moving parts.
11. 11

    Reinstall engine cover
    Position the engine cover over the engine and align the grommets with their mounting posts. Press down firmly on each grommet location until the cover snaps into place and sits flush.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. If a scan tool is available, clear any stored VVT-related diagnostic trouble codes. This allows you to verify the new solenoid resolves the issue during the verification test.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify engine cover is properly installed on all mounting grommets
3. Check that no tools or materials were left in the engine compartment

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises from the valve train or timing chain area
• Allow engine to idle for 2-3 minutes and verify the check engine light does not return
• Monitor oil pressure gauge to ensure normal operation
• If possible, use a scan tool to verify VVT solenoid command and response data are within normal parameters
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal engine performance, smooth idle, and no warning lights
• Re-scan for codes after test drive to confirm fault has not returned

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