In essence, the VTEC system blends high-RPM performance with low-RPM fuel efficiency and stability. Additionally, the changeover happens smoothly, enabling consistent performance across the entire powerband. The engine computer manages the switching process between the two cam lobes.
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The meaning of Honda VTEC
Honda created the VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control) technology to increase a four-stroke internal combustion engine’s volumetric efficiency, which leads to better performance at high RPM and less fuel usage at low RPM. The VTEC system alternates between two (or three) camshaft profiles using hydraulic pressure. Ikuo Kajitani, a Honda engineer, created it. [1][2] It differs significantly from conventional VVT (variable valve timing) systems, which just alter the valve timings and make no adjustments to the camshaft profile or valve lift.
Is the Honda VTEC a reliable motor?
Depending on how you drive, yes and no. The majority of drivers won’t notice their VTEC kicking in, but Honda automobiles with VTEC technology tend to be more efficient throughout a wider rpm range than many comparable vehicles, and they’re a lot of fun to drive in the appropriate circumstances. It only becomes operational when the engine is working at relatively high revs, which is uncommon under regular driving circumstances, especially if your vehicle has an automatic transmission. However, if you prefer driving on winding roads and you can adjust your own gears, VTEC makes a big difference.
Why does a VTEC valve exist?
Some Honda engines use a mechanical and electronic system called VTEC, which stands for variable valve timing and lift electronic control. This technology effectively gives the engine several camshafts.
The engine’s computer can activate different camshaft lobes at different rpm ranges to modify the timing of the cam. By doing this, the engine can benefit from both the greatest qualities of low-speed and high-speed camshafts.
Some Honda engines have a mechanical and electronic mechanism called VTEC that basically gives the engine several camshafts.
To open and close valves, the camshaft uses rotating lobes that push against the valves.
VTEC or turbo: which is superior?
While VTEC is more focused on extracting the maximum amount of horsepower from the engine because torque on VTEC cars can only be felt on the VTEC range, which is anyplace after 5,500RPMs, the torque produced by a turbo is still negligible in comparison.
VTEC – similar to a turbo?
The term “analog” describes turbochargers. They offer varying degrees of boost, from none to full boost. When exhaust gases are passing through a turbocharger, which happens whenever an engine is operating, the turbocharger is always active. According to the position of the wastegate and the rate at which exhaust gases are passing through it, it produces boost linearly. In contrast to VTEC, a turbocharger delivers varied quantities of boost across a large RPM range rather than abruptly “kicking in” at a specific RPM.
A “digital” device is VTEC. At the engagement point, there is a sharp transition and change in engine performance and sound because it is either on or off. Depending on the model and if the intake and exhaust systems have been adjusted, the degree of VTEC engagement can be felt or heard varies. If I’m paying careful attention, I can feel and hear it engage at 5,500 RPM in my standard Ridgeline.
Imagine turbochargers as a lamp with a dimmer control; the light can be anywhere from off to full brightness.
Consider VTEC as a light that has a straightforward on/off switch. The light has only two settings: off and full brightness.
Honda stopped utilizing VTEC when?
The 2017 Honda Civic Si will include a turbocharged engine, which is a first for the trim, and will go on sale next month for around $20,000. The 1.5-liter engine has the same 205 horsepower as the old 2.4-liter four with naturally aspirated gas. However, compared to the normally aspirated engine, torque is up 18 lb-ft to 192. The Civic Si should be enjoyable to drive because it has more power accessible lower in the rpm range and a standard six-speed manual transmission.
A sport-tuned suspension with firmer springs and antiroll bars helps to improve car control. Honda claims the new Si is substantially lighter than the previous version (without providing details). A two-mode adaptive damper system (sport and normal), a limited-slip differential, and larger 12.3-inch front brake rotors are all included as standard equipment.
The coupe and sedan both feature subdued design (at least compared to the Type R). The Si gets wider side vents at the back, black trim on the front fascia, 18-inch, 10-spoke wheels, and center-exit exhaust. No flashy body kits or extraneous wings are present.
It will be interesting to see how the 2017 Civic Si stacks up against rivals like the Ford Focus ST, Subaru Impreza WRX, and Volkswagen Golf GTI. With starting costs in the mid-$20,000 range and greater power than the Si, the competition may damage Honda’s new Si. Alternately, the Si could triumph despite lacking VTEC. As soon as we can get behind the wheel, we’ll let you know.
Does VTEC exist on every Honda engine?
If you have any interest in high-performance vehicles, particularly those made in Japan, you’ve probably heard of Honda’s powerful VTEC engine. The primary source of Honda’s renown is this. Although VTEC has continued on turbocharged Honda engines like the current Type R Civic, it is their four (and six) cylinder normally aspirated engines’ ace in the hole. VTEC has the ability to improve performance, boost economy, and cut emissions. Honda has successfully employed it for all three of these objectives over the years. Are all Hondas VTEC, though? You’ll get the solution to that question in this article.
VTEC has also influenced the development of the “VTEC Just Kicked In Yo” meme genre on the Internet:
But what precisely is VTEC? How is better performance achieved? Does every Honda have VTEC, too? These questions and more will be addressed in this installment of Car Facts.
VTEC is almost universally found in modern Honda models, but it wasn’t always this way. Not a single Honda vehicle had it a little over 30 years ago. Honda gradually integrated it across its whole lineup after first keeping it for performance vehicles. To discover more about what VTEC does, which Hondas have it, and why, let’s take a closer look at how it functions.
VTEC: Does it use more fuel?
When Honda’s R&D team reached the first milestone with the REV (Revolution-modulated valve control) valve stopping mechanism, the enormous effort of creating a smarter engine officially began. The system was designed to be able to shut down several valves at once in order to maximize airflow, provide stable idling, and improve smoothness for low- to medium-powered engine operation. The Honda CBR400F motorcycle used this brand-new advancement for the first time in 1983. Honda then set out to innovate the four-wheel drive after greatly improving the 2-wheelers.
Honda created the DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) VTEC system for autos from the REV used in motorcycle engines. A four-stroke internal combustion engine’s volumetric efficiency was increased by the DOHC VTEC, leading to stronger performance at high RPM and decreased fuel consumption at low RPM. The VTEC technology has completely altered the way the world views engines since it was originally introduced in 1989.
The VTEC engine made its debut in India in 2000 and has since established a legacy. The VTEC system had numerous upgrades over the years, with i-VTEC being the most significant (where “i stood for intelligent). The VTC (Variable Timing Control) and VTEC processes were combined in this technology to offer a very effective and excellent performance.
Which of Honda’s engines is best?
The 2001-vintage K is frequently seen in Honda’s sportier models, such as the Honda Civic Type R and Honda Accord Sport. This two-liter four-cylinder engine can currently produce 306 horsepower and 296 lb.-ft. of torque in the Civic Type R thanks to VTEC and a turbocharger. The Honda Accord Hybrid’s “Earth Dreams K24W” engine was named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2017.
The Civic Type R’s VTEC engine is the most potent street-legal Honda to ever make it to America, producing 153 hp/L.
The K series engine continues to have excellent Honda engine reliability, as is frequently the case. Common problems include oil leakage from the front crankshaft seals, camshaft galling on older engines, and excessive vibrations from worn engine mounts.
Why does VTEC malfunction?
If there’s a problem with your VTEC solenoid, it’s likely to result in your car running in limp mode with less power than usual and perhaps even unable to exceed 3,000 rpm.
Despite the fact that some drivers may be concerned that they would certainly face a big repair fee, this is luckily not the case.
While a leaking gasket may occasionally be the source of the problem, we’ve heard of numerous owners who took the time and trouble to disassemble the solenoid and replace the gaskets only to have the solenoid malfunction shortly after.
We would personally advise choosing a straight swap with a new unit because of this and the small price difference between the two.
The rarer VTEC solenoid used in these models is significantly more expensive than those normally found in vehicles like the Civic, Accord, and CR-V, thus owners of Honda S2000s are likely to feel the sting a little more.
In this situation, it could be worth trying the gasket kit first to see whether it fixes the leaky solenoid issue with the evident gasket issue, but be ready to put in extra work and possibly replace the solenoid soon after.
We always advise that you use extra caution while removing the bolts and make sure that both of the mating surfaces are clear of impurities and debris when it comes to re-fitting, regardless of whether you choose to replace the gasket or the solenoid fully.
We always strongly advise keeping up with your regular oil changes after you’ve replaced your solenoid or gasket to ensure optimal life from your engine and VVT solenoid.
In addition to numerous other problems, neglecting routine maintenance frequently results in clogged oil containing debris that might eventually clog the passageway to the solenoid.
Although it isn’t always the case, infrequent oil changes and letting the oil level drop too low are frequent reasons for VTEC solenoid failure, thus we think routine maintenance and inspections are essential to guarantee a healthy engine and VTEC.
Thank you for reading our VTEC solenoid guide.
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