SureTrack Real Fix: VV Timing is Everything

When the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid is malfunctioning, the entire system can be compromised, which may result in intake and exhaust valves opening and closing at the wrong time. In the case of this Real Fix, a 2012 Nissan Qashqai got brought into the workshop with a check engine light illuminated and a quick turnaround was managed with a series of multimeter tests.

Vehicle
2012 Nissan Qashqai 2.0 Petrol

Title
P0011, Replaced Variable Valve Timing Control Solenoid

Complaint
The customer states the check engine light is on.

Cause
Connected a scan tool and found code P0011 – A Camshaft Position – Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1). Inspected the engine oil level and condition and found it was at the proper level and was clean. Used the scan tool to monitor the live data, increased the engine speed to 2,500 RPM and observed the intake camshaft position did not move from 0 degrees. Disconnected the variable valve timing control solenoid harness connector, inspected the terminals and found no concerns. Connected a multi-meter across the variable valve timing control solenoid harness connector, used the scan tool to actuate the variable valve timing control solenoid and found battery voltage and ground were present. Removed the variable valve timing control solenoid for a visual inspection and found no faults. Used the multi-meter to test the solenoid’s resistance and found the measured resistance was above the specification. The results of these tests verified the variable valve timing control solenoid was faulty.

Correction
Replaced the variable valve timing control solenoid and verified the vehicle operated properly. The customer’s concern did not return.