I have a 2001 honda accord 4cyl vtec and just wondering when the vtec kicks in? I've searched around and i've gotten really varied answers, does anyone know?

thanks

 

I thought it varies?

if you really wanna know, make a vtec light lol

 

Somewhere around 3000 RPM, it varies based on oil quantity/pressure and cleanliness of the VTEC valve and screen.

 

Cleanliness of the VTEC solenoid and screen have nothing to do with it. The ECU will activate VTEC above either 20 or 25 mph (I don't remember) in first gear, which puts the rpms at 4-5k. Then it engages at 2300 in the other gears. The VTEC engagement rpm could/will be higher (rpm varies) if there's not much load on the engine.

 

Youre totally right. Using that guys logic, You can lower vtec rpm engagement by just adding oil!!!!!!!!!

 

Valve Timing Change Conditions:
• Engine Speed - 2,300 - 3,200 rpm (depending on manifold pressure)
• Vehicle Speed - 6.2 mph (10 km/h) or faster
• Engine Coolant Temperature - 50°F (10°C) or higher
• Engine Load - Judged by intake manifold negative pressure (vacuum)

Oil pressure only has to do with whether or not the locking pin will engage or not. If there is not enough oil pressure (dirty or low oil level) the pin will not move over to the locked position. Therefore VTEC will not engage. A check engine light will be displayed if this condition occurs.

I think the OP is experiencing the "My VTEC doesn't kick like a DOHC H22" issue. You have an F23 VTEC that was created for high way cruising & fuel economy. Not the high rpm screaming VTEC power of the DOHC Honda's.

 

Yeeaaaaaaaa, thats it, like I said, low oil pressure/quantity or a completely clogged screen, ya, thats it.

 

VTEC engagement is NOT determined by OIL LEVEL! VTEC engagement is determined by enable criteria. ECT, MAP, TPS, and RPM. NOT oil level or pressure.

 

You are correct that it's not determined by it. However, if there is a low oil or dirty screen/oil condition that exists, VTEC simply won't engage. I'm pretty sure that is what Duane is referring to.