Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
10-22-2015, 09:43 AM
#1
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Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Newbie to the forums. Have done some oil changes and replaced an alternator, that's about the extent of my experience with DIY auto. I have a 2000 Civic EX sedan and was just informed by my mechanic that the variable timing solenoid needs replaced. He says it's not available aftermarket and dealer price likely will be $350-400. Am wondering if this is something I could pull out of a salvage yard myself and if it would be worth the effort?
10-22-2015, 12:12 PM
#2
Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Your mechanic is an idiot. It's called a VTEC solenoid, and they are readily available, both OEM and aftermarket. It's also an extremely easy part to install yourself. What makes your mechanic think it needs to be replaced?
10-22-2015, 12:17 PM
#3
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Check engine light came on, and that was what they told me after running a diagnostic. Thanks, I kinda suspected as much.
10-22-2015, 12:19 PM
#4
Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
In the FAQ sticky, you'll find a how-to for pulling codes yourself. Follow that, and tell us what code it's throwing. Unless your mechanic actually told you the P code, in which case, give us that.
If your VTEC solenoid had failed, you would have more symptoms than just the CEL coming on.
If your VTEC solenoid had failed, you would have more symptoms than just the CEL coming on.
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10-23-2015, 10:51 AM
#10
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Almost...
VTEC -- Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control
The mechanic was correct
10-23-2015, 01:04 PM
#11
Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
He was technically correct, but if you search for a "Variable timing solenoid", you won't find ****. If you search for the correct terminology, "VTEC solenoid", you'll actually find what you need from multiple sources. It's one of those 99% correct vs 100% correct things.
OP, if your CEL isn't on, then don't worry about it. When it does come on, pull the code for yourself, or get the full P code from your mechanic.
OP, if your CEL isn't on, then don't worry about it. When it does come on, pull the code for yourself, or get the full P code from your mechanic.
10-23-2015, 03:27 PM
#13
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Listen, its the same technology but Honda has it different. VVT is freakin Toyota, Honda is Valve Timing Electronic Control. Just pointing that out so you won't look like a noob when you go ask a honda enthusiast.
10-23-2015, 07:35 PM
#14
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Yes Toyota and now every other brand has the same mechanical attributes, but Honda invented it in the early 80's. And the full operational title was the one I gave.
Honda Worldwide | History | The VTEC Engine / 1989
Yes, we all know what a vtec solenoid is and we all call it so, but the technician was correct in his wording.
10-23-2015, 08:12 PM
#15
Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Sorry to break it to ya, but Honda didn't invent it. Variable valve timing was being used on steam engines, before Honda even started making cars. The mechanic used the "catch all" name for the part. I've already covered why this isn't right, I don't know why I have to say it again.
10-26-2015, 09:07 AM
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
So, drove it around for a few days with no issues, then the light came back on this morning. Code is P1259. My oil level is fine, should I assume the solenoid needs to be replaced? i.e., the mechanic's original diagnosis was correct...?
10-26-2015, 09:51 AM
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Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
Not sure why you're cursing again over it😏 but as I said before they cleared the code and I wanted to see if it came on again. Thought maybe I had let the oil level get too low before. At any rate, it's back on.
10-26-2015, 12:08 PM
#21
Re: Variable timing solenoid on 2000 Civic EX
That particular code could mean a couple different things. Don't just blindly replace parts - do diagnostics. Unless someone beats me to it, I'll post the related FSM pages when I get home from work.
