Honda refers to their variable displacement technology, also known as variable cylinder management (VCM), as variable displacement. This technology reduces fuel consumption by utilizing the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders as necessary, such as when traveling on the highway. The 2008–12 Accords went one step further by enabling the engine to reduce in size as the computer saw fit, from 6 to 4, then to 3 cylinders.
Honda’s VCM employs overhead cams as opposed to the pushrod methods utilized by DaimlerChrysler’s Multi-Displacement System and General Motors’ Active Fuel Management. The cam followers on one bank are released from their respective rockers by a solenoid, allowing the cam follower to float freely while the valve springs maintain the closed position of the valves. By regulating the flow of hydraulic engine oil pressure to locking mechanisms in the cam followers, the system operates. Drive by wire throttle technology in some automobiles enables the engine management computer to smooth down the engine’s power delivery, making the system almost undetectable. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) pumps an opposite-phase sound via the audio speakers to reduce cabin noise, Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) systems reduce vibration, and the dashboard displays a “ECO” indicator when the VCM system disables cylinders.
The hydraulic circuit control on the original VCM (2005–2006 Odyssey) was by default open, which meant that the engine needed to build up enough oil pressure upon initial restart in order to start running the back bank of cylinders. Activating a single solenoid on the rear camshaft reduces oil pressure, which unlocks the cam followers and closes the valves. In principle, a “air spring” effect results from closing all rear bank valves. However, it has been claimed that when the valves are closed, the revolving action of the piston creates a vacuum that allows oil to be drawn past the piston rings and into the cylinder. The engine misfires if the VCM disengages and the engine has to remove the oil from the cylinder. Spark plugs, catalytic converters, engine mounts, pistons/rings, and cylinder walls have all seen early failure as a result of this unusual form of oil consumption. Although more recent versions of VCM have been created to increase system stability, users still report issues.
Owners of vehicles with VCM typically experience vibration issues as a result of engine motor mount issues when ECO mode is activated.
[1] Owners frequently bypass the VCM with a bypass mechanism, such as an in-line resistor-based temperature override module, rather than replacing the motor mounts. The result is that the vehicle computer thinks the engine temperature is insufficient to enable the VCM. When this cannot guarantee that VCM will be inhibited (due to, for example, varying climatic circumstances or load settings), it can typically prevent VCM from activating while driving normally.
In This Article...
Can the Honda VCM be turned off?
When installed and configured properly in accordance with the user handbook, the vehicle’s operating temperature remains constant, and all data is within OBD-II limits as expected for routine operation. At this time, Honda does not officially support any technique for disabling the VCM.
Honda pilots who have VCM, what year?
A 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine with Honda’s VCM (Variable Cylinder Management), which was now available on both FWD and 4WD variants, provided the Pilot with its power in 2009. There were four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, which was a new addition to the lineup.
How can I tell whether the Honda I own has a VCM?
VCM is undoubtedly a distinctive feature! A Honda engine with variable cylinder management (VCM) is made to deactivate a specific number of cylinders while driving in order to save fuel.
Check the engine cover to see if your Honda has a VCM. It will be identified as having VCM if such is the case.
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Variable Cylinder Management
According to the driving conditions, fuel-saving technology called VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) automatically deactivates 1/3 or 1/2 of the cylinders. This reduces pollution and saves fuel.
Is there vibration from VCM?
According to the Acura representative from ACC, the vibration is normal because the VCM is a non-repairable problem because it generates an imbalance in the cylinders when it drops the three cylinders.
Which Honda Pilot year is the best?
The second-generation Pilot was produced from 2009 to 2015 and featured a number of extremely significant contemporary conveniences. The latter models had more streamlined and contemporary body lines even if the overall size and shape were similar to that of the first generation. 2015 is regarded as the Honda Pilot’s best year.
Second-generation automobiles still come with the 3.5-liter engine. To increase fuel efficiency, Honda, on the other hand, used cylinder deactivation technology. Depending on how much power is needed, the engine shuts down two or three cylinders at cruising speeds. Reducing the number of cylinders in use increases fuel savings. Because of this technology, the second-generation Pilot boasts much better EPA fuel-efficiency ratings.
Both the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions score 20 mpg overall. On the interstate, all-wheel-drive cars earn 24 mpg, while front-wheel-drive models get 25 mpg. Given that second-generation vehicles continue to produce 250 horsepower, this represents a significant improvement over first-generation models.
Like the first-generation Pilot, the second-generation Pilot has experienced many airbag recalls during its entire production run. Early models up to 2011’s seat belt stitching has been recalled owing to faulty or inadequate stitching, which might lead to the seatbelt disengaging from the chassis in the event of an accident.
Due to loose nuts on the front suspension parts, which could result in steering loss, other early models are recalled. Premature piston wear in some Honda Pilot models from the 2013 model year may cause engine failure.
Honda Pilot’s Second-Generation Gets An Offroad Design
Honda was spot on with the second-generation Pilots’ use of current technology, just as it was with the first-generation models. Voice controls and satellite navigation have been added to The Pilot’s GPS game. Beginning with the 2013 model year, all Pilots were required to have a backup camera as standard equipment. Some second-generation vehicles included an XM radio, and the rear-seat DVD system was still available.
Family-friendly features have also become more prevalent. Twelve cupholders in total are included with the second-generation Pilot. The number of 12-volt power outlets was reduced to three due to the loss of one of the original three. However, a 115-volt power outlet with a standard household socket soon became accessible, enabling the family to bring along gadgets like phone chargers and portable game systems. The second-generation Pilots could tow up to 4,500 pounds, much like the first.
The second-generation Pilots may be obtained in earlier versions for less than $10,000, but if you want one with all the bells and whistles, expect to pay more over $10,000. The most appealing models in terms of technology are those from 2013 and later. If you can do without a primary backup camera and make a few other minor changes, buying a model made before 2013 can save you a ton of money. Overall, you can obtain a superb second-generation Pilot for $15,000 or less.
How long do the transmissions on Honda Pilots last?
According to estimations, a Honda Pilot will cost $542 on average per year to maintain. In contrast, the typical midsize SUV has annual maintenance expenditures of about $573.
How Long Do the Brakes Last?
Your driving habits have the most impact on how long your Honda Pilot brakes last. Your brakes will deteriorate more quickly if you frequently drive through urban areas with a lot of stop-and-go traffic or in regions with mountainous roads.
As an alternative, your brakes will last longer if you frequently drive in a rural area or on a highway.
The brakes on your Honda Pilot should last 30,000 to 70,000 miles on average.
How Long Do the Tires Last?
A Honda Pilot’s original equipment tires have a 30,000–50,000 mile lifespan. The longevity of your tires will be greatly influenced by how often you drive.
Check out our post on Goodyear Tires if you’re looking for high-quality tires for your car.
How Long Do the Transmissions Last?
With the right maintenance, the transmissions in many Honda vehicles can last up to 120,000 miles. We advise routinely checking the tranny for indicators of difficulty because certain earlier models experienced premature transmission failure.
How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?
Spark plugs made of iridium or platinum in your Honda Pilot should last up to 100,000 kilometers. But if they start to fail at an early stage, you should change them immediately.
What About Insurance Cost?
The fact that the Honda Pilot is reasonably priced to insure will thrill families. A Honda Pilot’s insurance runs roughly $1,644 annually or $137 monthly.
When did Honda Pilot experience transmission issues?
We don’t expect you to go out into the wilderness and try to buy an automobile that is over 20 years old. However, you might find one if you’re looking for a cheap used Honda Pilot. We’re here to advise you not to purchase it under any circumstances. This is by far the worst model year Pilot has ever produced. Users of the NHTSA and Car Complaints have encountered a lot of issues since 2003.
Users have specifically reported issues with the drivetrain, electrical, engine, and airbags. There are a lot more difficulties mentioned, but these are the biggest and most expensive. For instance, the NHTSA received reports of 105 gearbox issues, 123 electrical issues, and 112 drivetrain issues. It’s far simpler to avoid this paradigm given how frequently serious, expensive to fix problems like this occur. If you see a 2003 Pilot laying around, do not purchase it.
Furthermore, same issues reappeared for the 2005 model year a few years later. This one is still best to avoid even though they don’t happen as frequently as the 2003 model did. Even if this is a different model year, we wouldn’t anticipate anyone to be purchasing at the moment.
Honda still using VCM?
There is no right or incorrect response to this query. It depends on your needs and personal preferences. Disabling the VCM can assist you in troubleshooting or diagnosing problems with your car.
The electronic systems in your car will all be turned off as a result, so keep that in mind. Therefore, we advise leaving the VCM active if you do not need to address any issues.
What Year Did Honda Get VCM?
In 2006, Honda began utilizing VCM in their automobiles. However, over the years, they have made several changes to the system. The most recent modification is the addition of a switch that enables you to turn off the VCM.
Where Can I Buy A VCM Disabler?
A VCM disabler is available for purchase in numerous locations. But we advise getting one from a trusted repair or dealer. This will guarantee that you receive a high-quality item that is covered by a warranty.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Disabling VCM?
Disabling VCM has a few disadvantages. It will firstly reduce the fuel efficiency of your car. It will also make engines vibrate and make more noise. Last but not least, it may also reduce the engine’s lifespan.
Having said that, it’s crucial to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of turning off VCM before making a choice.
How Do I Enable VCM Again?
All you need to do to re-enable VCM is the opposite of what you just did. However, we advise having a qualified mechanic or dealer work on your vehicle.