engine

VVT Solenoid - Single

for 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo · AWD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.5 h

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a single Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid on the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine.

Warnings

⚠Perform this work only on a cold engine. Hot oil and components can cause severe burns.

⚠The VVT solenoid is oil-pressurized. Expect residual oil drainage when removing.

ℹ️This engine has VVT solenoids on both intake and exhaust sides. Identify the failed solenoid before beginning work.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

Torque wrench (5-60 Nm range)Essential

Trim removal tools

Extension setEssential

Wire brush (non-metallic)

Brake cleaner or contact cleanerEssential

Shop towelsEssential

Oil catch container

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Parts

VVT Solenoid × 1 — Use OEM Maserati specification
VVT Solenoid O-ring seal × 1 — Usually included with solenoid

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Fluids

Selenia Racing 10W-60 — 0.25 qt

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 5 minutes
Remove engine cover by pulling upward on retention clips
Identify which VVT solenoid requires replacement (intake or exhaust, left or right bank)

Procedure

1
Remove ignition coil cover (if applicable)
Depending on which VVT solenoid is being replaced, you may need to remove the ignition coil cover for access. Remove the cover bolts and set the cover aside. The VVT solenoids are located on the front of each cylinder head near the timing chain area.
Torque spec
Cover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)
2
Disconnect VVT solenoid electrical connector
Locate the electrical connector on the VVT solenoid. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the solenoid. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion or damage.
3
Position oil catch container
Place a small container or shop towels beneath the VVT solenoid location. A small amount of engine oil will drain when the solenoid is removed.
4
Remove VVT solenoid mounting bolt
Using a 10mm socket, carefully remove the VVT solenoid mounting bolt. Keep the bolt clean and inspect threads for damage. The solenoid is now held only by its O-ring seal.
Torque spec
VVT Solenoid Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
5
Extract VVT solenoid
Carefully pull the VVT solenoid straight out from the cylinder head. Use a twisting motion if resistance is felt. Allow residual oil to drain into the catch container. Inspect the old solenoid for debris or metal particles in the screen filter.
6
Clean mounting bore and inspect
Use a clean shop towel and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the solenoid mounting bore in the cylinder head. Inspect for any debris, sludge, or metal particles. Check the O-ring sealing surface for scratches or damage. A non-metallic brush may be used carefully to remove stubborn deposits.
⚠Do not allow any debris to fall into the oil passages. Cover the opening if interrupting work.
7
Prepare new VVT solenoid
Remove the new VVT solenoid from packaging. Verify the new O-ring seal is properly seated in the solenoid groove. Lightly coat the O-ring with clean engine oil to aid installation and prevent damage.
8
Install new VVT solenoid
Carefully insert the new VVT solenoid straight into the cylinder head bore. Press firmly until the solenoid is fully seated and flush with the mounting surface. Do not twist excessively during installation to avoid damaging the O-ring.
9
Install and torque VVT solenoid bolt
Thread the mounting bolt by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Using a torque wrench, tighten the VVT solenoid bolt to specification in a single smooth motion without overtightening.
Torque spec
VVT Solenoid Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect electrical connector
Align the electrical connector with the solenoid terminals and press firmly until you hear a distinct click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is locked in place.
11
Reinstall ignition coil cover (if removed)
If the ignition coil cover was removed for access, reinstall it now and tighten the cover bolts to specification.
Torque spec
Cover Bolts18 Nm (13 lb-ft)
12
Reinstall engine cover and reconnect battery
Align the engine cover with its mounting clips and press down firmly until all clips engage. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Reassembly

Double-check that all electrical connectors are properly seated and locked
Verify all tools and materials have been removed from the engine compartment
Check engine oil level and top off if necessary with Selenia Racing 10W-60

Verification

Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2 minutes while monitoring for oil leaks around the VVT solenoid
Check for diagnostic trouble codes using a scan tool - the VVT-related code should be cleared
Listen for abnormal engine noises particularly during cold start when VVT is most active
Perform a test drive and verify smooth engine operation through the RPM range
Verify proper VVT operation by confirming improved idle quality and throttle response