How Do I Fix Code P0021 & P0026 (Bad Vvt Solenoid Symptoms)

Last updated on July 16th, 2023 at 02:59 pm

In the innovation of automotive, this happens to be among the noted breakthroughs. This is because it allows an adequate amount of oil supplies and makes the engine work and performs well. Note that bank 1 is known as the area of the engine with cylinder #1. But ensure you verify this according to the vehicle manufacturer’s spec. You can find the intake valve control solenoid inside the intake manifold side of the cylinder head.

Like every other part of the engine system, the components of a VVT or VVL system may over time fail. Whenever the intake valve control solenoid is not lubricated properly, it will cause lots of disruption and may cause damage to the timing chain and the gear.

So when these problems happen, there are lots of symptoms that may be the issues. The P0026 code is one of several diagnostic error codes that may show that a problem in the operation of these systems has occurred.

How Do I Fix Code P0021 & P0026 (Bad Vvt Solenoid Symptoms)

Bad vvt Solenoid Symptoms: What Happens When VVT Solenoid Goes Bad?

The VVT solenoid happens to be powered electrically as it is signaled by the ECU. So whenever it goes bad, it can cause the VVT solenoid to fail to operate. However, the solenoid itself can sometimes have an internal electrical malfunctioning and may start to operate intermittently or not work at all.

The check engine light will illuminate

Your vehicle engine control unit will warn immediately when it notices any deficiencies in the engine performance. This is because it monitors all the vehicle’s components. This means that if the VVT is failing, it is going to disrupt you all the time with the check engine light being illuminated.

Dirty engine oil

Having dirty engine oil is one of the things that would happen when the variable valve timing solenoid goes bad. The variable valve timing solenoid performs well with clean engine oil. Whenever the oil is dirty, the viscosity will be lost and when this occurs, the VVT solenoid is clogged which will also affect the gear and the chain.

Reduced fuel efficiency

The variable valve timing solenoid function is to control whenever the valves open to economically maximize fuel. So if you notice any malfunctioning, it could cause the engine’s performance to decrease and waste fuel. This means that whenever you notice a reduction in fuel economy, your VVT system is bad.

Rough engine idling

Whenever you observe the system isn’t working properly, there’s a possibility for more oil to pass to the VVT. When you have fluctuating RPM of the engine, it simply means you are experiencing a rough idling engine. You should never ignore this, this could prematurely wear out your vehicle’s engine.

How Do I Fix Code P0021 & P0026

The P0021 code is the OBD-II generic code that indicates your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) has found out that the bank 2 intake camshaft is more advanced than what the ECM has instructed it to be. However, this over-advanced operation could occur during retarding, or advancing of the camshaft timing.

To fix the P0021 code, follow the procedures below:

Method 1

The first is to visually examine for damaged wiring or connectors
Find out if the engine is sludge and if the engine has full clean engine oil with the right viscosity
Now scans and notes down the codes then view the freeze frame data to know when the code was set
You can now clear the OBD-II error codes and retest your car to see if the P0021 code comes back
You can then perform the manufacturer’s pinpoint tests for the P0021 code

Please note that the manufacturer’s pinpoint test will differ for different engine types and years of manufacturing.

Method 2

Clear the illuminated Check Engine Light codes and road testing to verify the code
You should change the oil and filter to the right oil viscosity for the engine specifications
Make sure to repair or replace the wiring to the camshaft oil control valve for bank 2 intake camshaft
Replace the camshaft oil control valve for bank 2 intake camshaft
Then check the timing chain and camshaft

Please note that the engine oil passages via the camshafts; this is because the oil control valves are of small size and need only the recommended manufacturer’s oil viscosity to be used. When the oil is sludge up or you put oil with a higher viscosity inside the engine, then this could cause the camshaft VVT not to work as desired.

How Do You Fix P0026?

The P0026 code happens to be the OBD-II generic code that indicates the engine control module (ECM) has noticed that the variable valve lift solenoid for the intake valves for bank 1 doesn’t engage or is taking too long to engage.

To get the P0026 code fixed, follow these procedures:

You need to first visually check the electrical connections and wire harness to the bank 1 intake valve solenoid.
Next is to clear codes and verify if the code will return before you do any further testing
Now installs the test intake valve control solenoid to be properly diagnosed and follows the pinpoint test to know if the valves will change during the testing
Make sure to command the test solenoid off and the intake valves should go to high lift
Next is to command the test solenoid and the intake valves should go to low lift
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s specific pinpoint tests for further diagnosis

Step 2

Clear the P0026 fault codes and perform a road test to try and verify failure
Next is to test the solenoid installed to see if the valves are working fine and replace the intake lift solenoid
Repair or replace the wiring or connection to the intake lift solenoid
Finally, repair the ECM connector or replace the ECM

What Happens When VVT Solenoid Goes Bad?

1. Check engine light will illuminate

2. Dirty engine oil

3. Reduced fuel efficiency

4. Rough engine idling

How Long Does It Take To Replace VVT Solenoid?

The variable valve timing solenoid can get faulty over time, and would need replacement. But how long does it take to replace the VVT solenoid? This could depend on some car models, sometimes you might end up taking half of the engine apart. However, replacement of the VVT solenoid can be done within 5 minutes.

Where Is The Variable Timing Solenoid Located?

The VVT, which is also known as Variable Valve Timing Solenoid is what controls the flow of oil to control what happens on the Sprocket, which shifts the position of the camshaft. However, you can locate the variable valve timing solenoid at the front of the engine. It is normally placed near the front of the valve cover.

Will Seafoam Clean VVT Solenoid?

Many modern VVT solenoid systems make use of engine oil (hydraulic) pressure and some type of an electronic solenoid to command changes in lift, valve timing, and/or duration. Low oil pressure or low engine oil level happens to be one of the most common issues you’ll find when diagnosing a VVT system that’s malfunctioning. So cleaning the VVT is vital.

So will seafoam clean VVT solenoid? The answer is yes. Cleaning VVT solenoid with Sea Foam will work perfectly, as it helps in dissolving and liquefying petroleum deposits that grow too big and sticky to drain.

Seafoam can be used in gas or diesel oil crankcases to safely clean and reduce noisy lifters, and actuators, clean chain tensioners, oil control rings, VVT solenoids, and cleans out oil passageways.

How Do I Know If My VCT Solenoid Is Bad?

There are various signs that can occur for you to know your vehicle’s VCT solenoid is wearing out or has broken completely. Note that these signs can even go as far as causing your engine to fail. So minimize the potential of these situations from causing damage to your vehicle completely, below are a few warning signs that you’ll see to know that your VCT solenoid is bad.

Check Engine Light

The vehicle’s engine control unit is what controls many modern cars that are available in today’s market, almost all engine component is monitored by the ECU. The engine control unit, which is also known as ECU is a type of electronic control module that helps in controlling a series of actuators on an internal combustion engine. This is what ensures the best engine performance and provides high-performance capabilities.

Whenever one of your engine components starts failing, the ECU will store a specific error code that will be able to scan the system and know what, where, why, and how that problem exists. When such an error code occurs, it will send a signal to the driver via the dashboard that something is wrong which will turn on a light via your dash. Though one of the most common lights that can be illuminated when a VCT solenoid is no longer working properly is the Check Engine Light.

However, the engine light normally has two different stages of displaying a signal to drivers. The first is steady light, which indicates just a minor issue, and the second is flashing, and this tells you to immediately stop driving or visit the nearest mechanic as soon as possible.

Whenever your Check Engine Light is turned on, it simply means that something has gone wrong with the vehicle. Though sometimes it can be as minor as having a loose gas cap after filling up your tank.

Dirty Engine Oil

When your engine oil is unclean and filled with debris, it could cause the VCT solenoid to have issues since this component works better when the engine oil is pure, clean, lost viscosity, or free of debris. Having clogged engine oil with debris can clog the passageway from the VCT solenoid to the chain and gear.

This means that if you don’t regularly change the engine oil and don’t go for regular maintenance, it could cause damage to the chain, the VCT Solenoid, and the gear drive at the same time. But how important is the engine oil?

The engine oil is what provides proper lubrication for the internal engine components susceptible to excess friction, overheating, and rubbing against each other while in operation. This lubrication helps in protecting the moving components and prevents them from excessive wear and tear. Note that without the engine oil, your vehicle’s metal-on-metal contact would cause damage to the engine to the extent that it won’t have the remedy, and this will lead to an expensive and extensive replacement.

Another reason why engine oil is important for your vehicle is that it helps to cool components due to overheating. A lot of the cooling needed is supplied by the coolant system, such as the radiator or the water pump. So how do I know when I have low or dirty engine oil? Signs of low or dirty engine oil:

Oil Warning Light – One of the common ways to know when there’s low engine oil is the flashing of an oil warning light on the dashboard. This is what indicates an issue that you need to take care of as soon as possible. This light informs you that you have low engine oil in your engine to run and power your car to drive on the road.
Knocking Noises – One other sign of low and dirty engine oil that you’ll notice is knocking noises and loud sounds coming from the engine. And because these noises will be noticeable to everyone in the cabin, it will easily be taken care of since it is easier to recognize before the issue gets worse.

Rough Engine Idle – Most times, the VCT Solenoid system does not turn on until the engine’s RPM starts operating at a higher and faster level, or when the engine is carrying a heavier load. This means that if your VCT Solenoid system isn’t working well at an optimal level, or it is malfunctioning, it can introduce additional engine strain and oil to the VCT gears.

Note that a malfunctioning VCT solenoid has the ability to cause the engine to start to idle rough, especially when the engine RPM begins to fluctuate as the system is starting. However, when this issue isn’t checked as soon as possible, more engine components can wear out prematurely and this could cause additional parts to break down quickly.

Reduced Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The main function of VCT is to ensure valves are opened and closed at the right moments. This is what helps in maximizing engine performance and minimizing unnecessary fuel consumption, increasing fuel efficiency and miles per gallon. So this means that whenever the VCT solenoid isn’t working perfectly, the entire car system would start working incorrectly. When this happens, it will result in intake and exhaust valves opening and closing at incorrect moments, which will cause the fuel economy to decline.

Conclusion

The variable valve timing, or VVT as it is commonly known, is one of the most significant innovations in automotive history. Modern cars have variable valve timing (VVT) systems. This is used to increase fuel economy and improve performance by changing the valve lift event. VVT allows for the correct oil supply. This allows the engine to deliver great fuel economy and performance.

The VVT solenoid can, as with all engine components, eventually fail. The intake valve control solenoid must be properly lubricated. If it isn’t, it can cause a lot of disruption, as well as damage to the timing chain or the gear. P0026 is one of many diagnostic error codes that can indicate a problem with the system’s operation.

You can fix the P0026 error code. I’ve been able to show you how to do it. If you’re unable to resolve the problem, you can call a professional for assistance.

Jeffery Ekweghi

Hi dear, my name is Jeffery Ekweghi, and I am a certified mechanic and autobody parts technician. I created this site to share my expertise and experience with car lovers looking to resolve their car-related issues. I am certified in private cars and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. I have worked as a mechanic since 2015 and have experience in vehicle brands like Subaru, Jeep, Toyota, TATA, BMW, Mazda, Honda, Nissan, Kia, TVs, and Others; however, I primarily specialize in Toyota vehicles.