Most cars have one Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid per camshaft. A standard 4-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams (DOHC) typically uses two solenoids. However, the exact number depends entirely on the engine's design, its age, and the sophistication of its VVT system. Some older or simpler engines might have just one, while modern performance engines with systems like Honda's VTEC or BMW's VANOS can have multiple solenoids per camshaft for more precise control.
VVT solenoids are electro-hydraulic components that control oil flow to the VVT actuator, which physically adjusts the camshaft timing. This optimizes engine performance for both power and efficiency. The number of solenoids is directly tied to how many camshafts the system controls and whether it adjusts intake, exhaust, or both.
Here’s a look at common configurations across different engine types:
| Engine Configuration | Typical VVT Solenoid Count | Common Example Models | VVT Type Controlled |
|---|
| Inline-4 (SOHC) | 1 | Older Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla | Intake Camshaft |
| Inline-4 (DOHC) | 2 | Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra | Intake & Exhaust Camshafts |
| V6 (DOHC) | 4 | Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Camry V6 | Intake & Exhaust on each bank |
| High-Performance I4 (DOHC) | 2-4 | Honda Civic Si (i-VTEC), VW GTI | Intake, Exhaust, and Lift Control |
| V8 (DOHC) | 4 | Ford Mustang GT, Chevrolet Corvette | Intake & Exhaust on each bank |
If you're experiencing a check engine light related to VVT (e.g., codes P0010-P0014), it's crucial to identify how many solenoids your specific engine has. The best resource is your vehicle's service manual or a reliable automotive database. Replacing a faulty solenoid is a common repair, but diagnosing the correct one is the key first step.
