Category: Know-How

on
SHOP VARIABLE VALVE TIMING SOLENOIDS

What does the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System do?

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) systems are designed to reduce emissions and maximize engine performance and fuel economy. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) systems utilize oil pressurized solenoids and camshaft phasing sprockets to change the timing of a valve lift event throughout the engine RPM range.

Why would the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System fail?

Every Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system is slightly different, but there are general guidelines to follow to ensure proper performance: Regularly service the engine oil and filter and use the manufacturer’s required engine oil type. When oil change intervals are extended beyond the recommended manufacturer’s guidelines, engine oil sludge can clog critical oil passageways and create failure prone conditions. Material or electrical malfunctions from regular usage can also contribute towards Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System failure.

How to determine if the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System is malfunctioning?

The check engine light (CEL) will be activated when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects unordinary engine conditions. A poor performing or failed Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system will result in poor engine idle/stalling, increased engine noise and reduced power output. Engine codes can vary from year/make/model and can include the following:

Check Engine Light (CEL) OBDII CodesPotential Diagnosis
P0010Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 1
P0011Camshaft Position Timing Over-advanced or System Fault Bank 1
P0012Camshaft Position Timing Over-retarded Bank 1
P0013Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 1
P0014Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Fault Bank 1
P0015Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P0020Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 2
P0021Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Fault Bank 2
P0022Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2
P0023Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit Bank 2
P0024Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Fault Bank 2
P0025Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 2
P1349Variable Valve Timing System Malfunction Bank 1

 

Where are the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) System components located?

Inside the engine compartment the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) parts are found on or around the cylinder head block and timing chain/belt cover and may require the removal of electrical plugs and access to the engine camshaft timing system.

Advantages of using a NAPA OE Solutions Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Replacement Unit are:

  1. Complete control of the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product to ensure long-life.
  2. Engineered to meet or improve upon OE specifications which ensures optimal performance and installation.
  3. NAPA OE Solutions Variable Valve Timing (VVT) repair parts are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
  4. Broad applications coverage for most vehicles equipped with VVT systems.
  5. Value added components such as O-rings, seals, and hardware are included for a wide range of vehicle applications.

Read more about hydraulic systems, vvts and engine lubrication basics on our Know How Blog

on
SHOP MANIFOLD ABSOLUTE PRESSURE (MAP) SENSORS

What does a Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor do?

photo of manifold absolute pressure or map sensor, NAPA Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor CRB227024

The MAP sensor converts engine vacuum or manifold pressure to an electrical signal so the powertrain control module (PCM) knows how much load the engine is under. This data is the basis for fuel delivery and timing control.

Will a malfunctioning Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor affect vehicle operation?

Yes, a failing sensor can illuminate the check engine light or malfunction indicator lamp, and may cause the engine to have a rich or lean fuel mixture condition which will commonly affect engine performance.

What are the common causes of Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor failure?

Typically these sensors fail due to moisture entering the sensor when the engine is off and due to normal wear of the sensor element.

How to determine if the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor is malfunctioning?

The Diagnostic Monitor tests for voltages outside of the normal range. The powertrain control module (PCM) also compares actual MAP output to calculated values to determine sensor performance deterioration. The calculated values are based on throttle position and various engine load factors.

Check Engine Light (CEL) OBDII CodesPotential Diagnosis
P0105MAP/Barometric Pressure Circuit
P0106MAP/Baro Pressure out of range
P0107MAP/Baro Pressure Low Input
P0108MAP/Baro Pressure High Input
P0109MAP/Baro Pressure Circuit Intermittent

 

Advantages of using a NAPA Echlin Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Replacement Unit are:

  1. Complete control of the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product to ensure long-life.
  2. Engineered to OE specifications and fitment to ensure a precise PCM signal and easy installation.
  3. NAPA ECHLIN MAP sensors are backed by a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.

Read more about map sensors on our Know How Blog

on
SHOP ANTI LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) SENSORS

What does an Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) System do?

anti lock brake system sensor at NAPA Auto Parts

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) uses a sensor to monitor the wheel speed and send this information to the ABS computer. The ABS computer uses this information to prevent the brakes from locking during an emergency stop. If wheel speeds are not equal, the computer modulates the anti-lock feature until the speeds are equalized.

Will a malfunctioning Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Sensor affect vehicle operation?

Yes, a failing sensor can illuminate the malfunction indicator or ABS warning lamps, and may cause failure of the anti-lock braking system to operate safely and properly.

What are the common causes of Anti-Lock Brake Sensor (ABS) Sensor failure?

Typically these sensors will fail as a result of clogging from metallic debris, brake dust or dirt due to exposure to the harsh elements.

How to determine if the Anti-Lock Brake Sensor (ABS) is malfunctioning?

An ABS sensor can be visually inspected and the wire winding and sensor harness can be tested for opens, shorts and proper factory specified resistance with an ohmmeter.

Advantages of using a NAPA BRAKES Echlin Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Sensor Replacement Unit are:

  1. Complete control of the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product to ensure long-life.
  2. Engineered to OE specifications and fitment to ensure a precise ABS signal and easy installation.
  3. NAPA BRAKES ECHLIN ABS sensors are backed by a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.

on

How to Check Oil and Other Fluids

Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 5-10 minutes
How often: See each case below

SHOP TOWELS

To keep your vehicle running smoothly, it’s important to check fluid levels regularly. Checking fluids only takes a few minutes. Learn how to check oil and other fluids by following the steps below. If you have any questions, please contact your nearest NAPA AutoCare Center.

CHECKING OIL

Under normal driving conditions, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Consult your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specific needs.

Step 1

Park your car on level ground, turn the engine off and remove the keys.

Step 2

Open the hood of your car and secure it with the prop rod. Locate the dipstick; it’s usually labeled “Oil”.

Step 3

Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Return the dipstick to the tube, then remove it again and check the level of motor oil on the stick. If the level is below the minimum indicator, you need to add oil to your car.

Step 4

Check the color of the oil on the dipstick. Motor oil is usually a light clear fluid but will darken under normal conditions. If the oil is black, it should be changed along with the oil filter. If the oil is light brown and milky, this could indicate a coolant leak into the crank case.

Step 5

Feel the oil on the dipstick. If the oil feels gritty, change the oil.

Step 6

Smell the dipstick. If the oil has an odor of gas, it could indicate that the engine, fuel system or ignition system needs to be serviced.

 

More from Team Valvoline:
What is Motor Oil and Why do You Need It?
Why Is There More Than One Type of Motor Oil?

CHECKING TRANSMISSION FLUID

Step 1

Pull out the transmission fluid dipstick located at the back of the engine near the firewall. Wipe it off, replace it and pull it out again. Check the level against the markings at the bottom of the dipstick. A low level should be addressed immediately with a transmission specialist.

Step 2

Check the color of the fluid; it should be clear pink. Any darkness means it’s time for a fluid and filter change.

Some vehicles no longer have a transmission dipstick and need to be checked by an automotive professional. Check your owner’s manual for details. Manual transmissions’ oil levels should be checked by a NAPA AutoCare Center when the engine oil is changed.

 

More from Team Valvoline:
The Ins and Outs of the Automatic Transmission and the Fluid That Keeps It Going
Choosing the Right ATF for Your Vehicle

IMPORTANT TRANSMISSION FLUID TIPS:

  • Your car should be running when you check the transmission fluid level. Set the emergency brake and put the car in park when checking under the hood.
  • If you prefer, bring your car to your local NAPA AutoCare Center. Your professional service technician can check your fluid levels and perform any necessary fluid and filter changes.
  • Always be sure you are using the correct transmission fluid. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage the unit. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specifications.

CHECKING BRAKE FLUID

Check your owner’s manual to determine how often you should check your brake fluid. Checking brake fluid once a year is usually sufficient.

Step 1

Find the vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir. They are normally located on top of the engine and are labeled.

Step 2

Clean the area around the cap with an approved aerosol cleaner before removing the cap. Any particles of dirt that fall in the fluid may result in a costly service.

Step 3

Open the cap and check the fluid level on the dipstick that is attached to the underside of the cap. If the fluid level is low, have the car serviced at a NAPA AutoCare Center soon. Otherwise, it could lead to a larger problem. Never used old steering or brake fluids. Once opened and exposed to air and moisture, these fluids cannot perform the required functions and can harm the system.

Note: In some older vehicles, you need to check the master cylinder to check the fluid level. The master cylinder is a small metal box with a removable lid.

CHECKING COOLANT

Coolant should be changed every 30,000 miles or every two years as a general rule. Check your owner’s manual to see what is recommended for your vehicle.

Step 1

Locate the coolant reservoir under the hood of the car. See your owner’s manual for the exact location. Some cars only have an exposed cap.

Step 2

Check the fluid level. On the side of the reservoir, there are markings that show fluid levels. If the level of the liquid is low, add more of the proper coolant mix.

 

More from Team Valvoline:
What is Coolant and Why do I Need It?
How Does Coolant Actually Work?

IMPORTANT TRANSMISSION FLUID TIPS:

  • Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine. Allow it to cool for 15 to 20 minutes before opening.
  • If you prefer, bring your car to your local NAPA AutoCare Center. Your professional service technician can check your fluid levels and perform any necessary fluid and filter changes.

CHECKING BATTERY LEVEL

Most batteries have a three-to-five-year life span, but they can last longer with maintenance, including checking their fluid level.

Step 1

Look for the battery’s condition indicator, a visible window on the top of the battery that changes color.

Green/blue: Good
Red: Add distilled water
White: Needs charge

Check your owner’s manual or label on the battery for further information. The condition indicator should not be the only test done to determine if the battery is serviceable.

Step 2

If the battery needs more fluid, pour in a little at a time until the level reaches the top of the battery grids. Do not overfill. Always use distilled water, not tap or filtered water, to avoid contamination.

 

More from Team Valvoline:
How Do Batteries Work?
A Breakdown of Automotive Batteries

IMPORTANT BATTERY FLUID TIPS:

  • Certain batteries (maintenance-free) are sealed, and it is not possible to add fluid to them.
  • Not all batteries are in the same place. Some batteries are located under the rear seat, in the trunk or in the front inner fender.
  • Any time a battery is serviced, safety gloves, eye protection and fender protection should be used to prevent injury and damage to paint.