VVT Solenoid - Single

This procedure covers the replacement of the VVT (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid on the 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo engine, which controls oil flow to the VVT actuator for optimal engine performance.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• VVT solenoid (intake cam) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• VVT solenoid O-ring or gasket × 1 — Usually included with new solenoid

Fluids

• Honda Genuine 0W-20 Engine Oil — 0.25 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is completely cold before beginning work
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Open the hood and secure with the prop rod
4. Remove the engine cover by pulling upward on the front clips and lifting away
5. Have shop towels ready to catch residual oil

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the VVT solenoid
   The VVT solenoid is located on the front of the cylinder head, near the timing chain cover on the intake camshaft side. It has a single electrical connector and is secured by one bolt. On the 1.5L turbo, it is positioned on the passenger side of the engine bay.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press down on the locking tab of the electrical connector while pulling it straight away from the VVT solenoid. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Move the connector aside to provide clearance for solenoid removal.
3. 3

   Position oil catch container
   Place a small oil drain pan or shop towels directly beneath the VVT solenoid mounting location. Approximately 1-2 ounces of engine oil will drain from the solenoid port when removed.
4. 4

   Remove VVT solenoid mounting bolt
   Using a 10mm socket and ratchet, remove the single bolt securing the VVT solenoid to the cylinder head. Keep the bolt in a safe location for reinstallation. Be careful not to drop the bolt into the engine bay.
   Torque spec

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

   Extract VVT solenoid
   Grasp the solenoid body firmly and pull straight outward to remove it from the cylinder head. There may be slight resistance from the O-ring seal. Allow residual oil to drain into your catch container. Inspect the solenoid mounting hole for debris or metal particles.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean mounting surface
   Examine the solenoid mounting bore in the cylinder head for metal shavings, sludge, or debris. Clean the mounting surface and bore opening with a clean shop towel. If significant debris is present, use a small wire brush to clean the area. Check the condition of the old O-ring on the removed solenoid.
7. 7

   Prepare new VVT solenoid
   Remove the new VVT solenoid from its packaging and verify it matches the old unit. Inspect the new O-ring or gasket for any damage. Lightly coat the new O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation and ensure proper sealing.
8. 8

   Install new VVT solenoid
   Align the new VVT solenoid with the mounting hole in the cylinder head, ensuring the O-ring is properly seated. Push the solenoid firmly into place until it seats fully against the cylinder head. The electrical connector should face outward for easy access.
9. 9

   Install and torque mounting bolt
   Thread the VVT solenoid mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolt to the specified torque of 10 Nm (7 lb-ft). Do not overtighten, as this can damage the cylinder head threads or solenoid housing.
   Torque spec

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

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the VVT solenoid until you hear and feel a positive click, indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely attached.
11. 11

    Reinstall engine cover
    Position the engine cover over the engine, aligning the mounting clips with their receptacles. Press down firmly on all clip locations until the cover is fully seated and secure.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully engaged with positive locking confirmation
2. Verify the VVT solenoid bolt is torqued to specification and the solenoid is firmly seated
3. Clean up any spilled engine oil from the engine bay and components

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes, listening for unusual noises or rattles from the timing chain area
• Check for oil leaks around the VVT solenoid mounting location while the engine is running
• Verify no check engine light (MIL) is illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any VVT-related diagnostic trouble codes (P0010, P0011, P0012, P0014)
• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal engine performance, smooth idle, and proper acceleration response

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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