What Causes Damage to the Engine Intake Solenoid Valve?
2 Answers
Engine intake solenoid valve damage can occur due to several reasons: no current passing through the solenoid valve's circuit, poor contact at the solenoid valve's connector, or inherent damage to the solenoid valve itself. Below is a detailed introduction to automotive solenoid valves: Symptoms of solenoid valve damage: Occupants may notice a strong gasoline smell, abnormal engine operation, or reduced engine power; the engine may idle roughly, and in severe cases, it may become difficult to start the vehicle. Function of the solenoid valve: Its primary role is to switch between opening and closing. The valve core is attracted by the electromagnetic force generated by the current in the coil, and it comes in normally open and normally closed types. Due to the very small clearance between the valve core and the sliding sleeve in the solenoid valve, if there is insufficient lubrication or mechanical impurities from poor friction fall in, it can easily get stuck. If stuck, the solenoid valve must be removed and cleaned to restore normal operation.
Last time my car's engine made strange noises, and after inspection, it turned out the intake solenoid valve was faulty, which is quite common. The solenoid valve controls the intake airflow, and if it malfunctions, it could be due to internal coil short circuits, oxidized contacts, or a stuck valve causing slow response. Causes include voltage instability burning it out, dust accumulation causing blockages, or aging and deterioration. The symptoms are obvious: difficulty starting the engine, frequent shaking, weak acceleration, and a significant increase in fuel consumption. I think if you smell gasoline or the engine light comes on while driving, you should pay attention. For prevention, regularly cleaning the intake system and checking electrical connections can extend its lifespan. Once it's broken, it's best not to drive with it and go to a professional shop to replace the new valve immediately. DIY carries high risks, and if you mess up the wiring, the damage could be worse. I've seen many car owners delay until the engine needs major repairs, costing even more money.
