This procedure covers the replacement of the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid on the intake camshaft of the 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• VVT solenoid valve (intake) × 1 — 15330-0W010 or equivalent OEM
• VVT solenoid O-ring seal × 1 — Usually included with solenoid

Fluids

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
2. Ensure engine is completely cold before beginning work.
3. Open hood and secure in upright position.
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal to clear any fault codes (optional but recommended).
5. Place oil drain pan beneath the front of the engine near the VVT solenoid location.

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the VVT solenoid
   The VVT solenoid is located on the front upper left side of the engine (driver's side when facing the vehicle), mounted to the cylinder head near the timing chain cover. It has a single electrical connector and one mounting bolt. The solenoid will have an electrical connector with a locking tab facing upward.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press down on the locking tab of the electrical connector while pulling the connector away from the VVT solenoid. You may need to wiggle it gently to release. Set the connector aside in a clean area where it won't contact engine oil.
3. 3

   Remove VVT solenoid mounting bolt
   Using a 10mm socket with extension, remove the single VVT solenoid mounting bolt. Keep track of this bolt carefully as it is small and easily lost. Place the bolt in a clean container immediately after removal.
   ⚠Use a magnetic socket or apply tape to the socket to prevent dropping the bolt into the engine compartment.
4. 4

   Remove VVT solenoid
   Grasp the VVT solenoid body firmly and pull straight out from the cylinder head. It may require a gentle twisting motion to break the O-ring seal. Expect a small amount of engine oil to drain from the solenoid mounting bore. Allow oil to drain into the catch pan positioned below.
   ℹ️Do not pry against the solenoid body or you may damage the mounting surface on the cylinder head.
5. 5

   Inspect mounting bore and clean surfaces
   Using a clean shop rag, wipe the mounting bore opening in the cylinder head. Inspect for any metal debris, sludge, or contamination. The bore should be clean with no visible scoring or damage. Remove any old O-ring material if it remained in the bore.
6. 6

   Prepare new VVT solenoid
   Remove the new VVT solenoid from packaging. Verify the new O-ring is properly seated in the groove on the solenoid body. Lightly coat the O-ring with fresh engine oil using your finger. This ensures proper sealing and easier installation.
7. 7

   Install new VVT solenoid
   Align the new VVT solenoid with the mounting bore. The solenoid will only fit in one orientation. Push the solenoid firmly into the bore until it is fully seated against the cylinder head mounting surface. The electrical connector terminal should face outward for easy access.
8. 8

   Install and torque mounting bolt
   Thread the VVT solenoid mounting bolt by hand until finger-tight to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench and 10mm socket, tighten the bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can strip the aluminum threads in the cylinder head.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the VVT solenoid terminal until you hear and feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked in place. The locking tab should be fully engaged.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and verify installation
    If the battery was disconnected, reconnect the negative terminal. Check that all tools have been removed from the engine compartment. Verify the electrical connector is secure and the solenoid is properly seated.

Reassembly

1. No additional reassembly required beyond installing the new VVT solenoid.
2. Ensure no tools or rags remain in the engine compartment before closing the hood.

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to idle. Listen for any unusual rattling or ticking noises from the timing chain area that might indicate VVT system issues.
• Check for oil leaks around the VVT solenoid mounting area after 30 seconds of running.
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no VVT-related fault codes are present (P0010, P0011, P0012 are common VVT codes).
• Take the vehicle for a short test drive and verify smooth acceleration and no check engine light illumination.
• Recheck oil level after test drive and top off if necessary, as a small amount may have been lost during solenoid removal.

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