How To Replace A Variable Valve Timing Solenoid

[stairmaster3001]

shouldnt  u torque that?

[canobd2]

Sure, to be safe.

[hp11208]

im getting code p1259 on my 2001 honda civic ex

[canobd2]

I would first check your engine oil level; if the oil level is low it can cause this code. If the oil level is ok then you should look into the variable valve timing solenoid and or the variable valve timing pressure switch.

[hp11208]

@canobd2 The oil was low and i top it off with 1 quart,but i find that the oil is burning up in a month or so no outer leaks.

[canobd2]

It is not uncommon for your car to burn some oil (this is especially true for higher mileage vehicles).

[CirrusLX]

ok..so i think mine is bad, when it get to about 5200 rpms i can feel a little boost of power but my vtec doesnt sound like it used to is that the solenoid?

[canobd2]

You can do a resistance test on that solenoid, you may also want to check the solenoid filter to see if it is clogged if so replace it. Good Luck!

[CirrusLX]

@canobd2 ok..so the guy at napa auto parts said if the solenoid was bad vtec wouldnt be firing at all....so 3 other mechanics told me that they think my car is out of time because i had my timing belt replaced a couple days ago...so havin it checked out 2mor...hopefully it is out of time and nothing else...im prayin thats what it is and nothin major.....my car when accelerating feels like its dying and is struggling to go...what do u think..out of time??

[canobd2]

This could defiantly be caused by your car being out of timing, I would start there first.

[CirrusLX]

@canobd2 so the mechanic today told me my hydraulic tensioner was bad...just so u know we are talking bout a 2001 honda prelude...would the hydraulic tensioner being bad cause the car to be very sluggish and not as powerful..because the belts are flopping around i guess..rightt?

[canobd2]

Yes this is also possible.

[WisconsinEric]

I strongly reccomend you replace that upper radiator hose with the OEM Yamashita hose. Show some respect for that Honda:) Honda OEM parts rule!

[MegaMarshal]

When you say lack of power do you mean the VTEC just doesn't work? Or does the vtec still work however the engine just lacks power?

Actually simpler.

If I here my VTEC kick in does that mean the soleniod is good? Or could it still be bad?

[canobd2]

If you have a bad solenoid your vtec will not engage and your car will lack power.

[MegaMarshal]

@canobd2

Could you please explain the symptoms further, I think mine may be bad. Is there a way to test it?

[canobd2]

Lack of power and or hesitaion.

[TimKGrimes]

Thanks for the lesson. What are the symptoms of a Var. Valve Timing Solenoid - besides a caution / warning light?

[hp11208]

easy