Cam Phaser Failure: Top Causes & Solutions for The Problem

At times, it is seen that drivers aren’t aware of many parts in their car that play a stellar role in supporting the critical components of the vehicle in their smooth operation. The cam phaser also known by different names like the camshaft actuator or variable valve timing (VVT) is one such component.

The cam phaser plays an important role in adjusting the camshaft as per the crankshaft of the vehicle and this adjustment is termed as "phasing" which helps in the efficient functioning of the engine. In this article, we will discuss the top causes behind cam phaser failure & ways to deal with the problems.

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

The timing chain tensioner is one of the most crucial components under the hood of your car that is responsible for keeping the timing chain tight and perfectly aligned which helps in the functioning of the camshaft and crankshaft. Over the years the timing chain tensioner might suffer from wear & tear that can cause it to slack and become loose.

This is when it affects the functioning of a host of components including the cam phaser in your car. The loose timing chain tensioner adversely affects the valve timing of your car and this leads to the failure of the cam phaser. One of the best ways to stay clear of the problem is by inspecting the timing chain & tensioner on a regular basis.

Upon inspection, if you find that the timing chain & the tensioner are completely worn out or damaged then they must be replaced immediately with new ones to prevent damage to the other components of your vehicle including the cam phaser.

Electrical Problems

Often it is noted that issues with the functioning of the electrical systems in cars are also a leading factor behind the failure of the cam phaser in vehicles. The cam phasers are dependent on the electrical signals from the engine control unit (ECU) as the signals are then used to adjust the timing perfectly.

Most of the time it is observed that the development of corrosion in electrical connections and loose wiring are prominent reasons behind the malfunctioning of the cam phaser in cars. That is why you must start by inspecting the wiring harness connected to the system and the ECU for any signs of damage and corrosion.

At times, the problem also lies with the engine control unit (ECU) of the car and if the ECU is the culprit behind the malfunctioning cam phaser in your car, then you need to reprogram it or replace it if the reprogramming fails to restore the functioning of the cam phaser in your car.

Inadequate Oil Pressure

The engine is a very sophisticated part of your car and it requires pressurized deliverance of oil for its efficient functioning. Often it is found that inadequate levels of oil pressure also cause disruptions in the functioning of the cam phaser as the phasers are reliant on proper oil flow for functioning.

The adjustment of timing is done by the cam phaser when the hydraulic pressure is just about perfect in your car. However, inadequate levels of oil pressure will affect the functioning of the cam phaser and it is going to fail subsequently.

Dealing with inadequate levels of oil pressure in your car is fairly simple and you can easily prevent the problem from affecting your vehicle by staying on top of the regular oil change schedule as per the owner’s manual of your car. Besides that, you must also make sure that the oil pump is functioning normally & there are no signs of any leaks in the engine of your car.

Bad Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid

The VVT solenoid in your car helps in controlling the flow of oil to the cam phasers and this lets them adjust the valve timing. However, if the VVT solenoid has gone bad in your vehicle then it can hamper the oil flow and this plays spoilsport with the functioning of the cam phasers.

Now, you must keep an eye on the functioning of the VVT solenoid on a regular basis as it helps in catching any underlying issues before it takes a turn for the worse.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the leading causes behind the failure of the cam phasers in cars and it can take a toll on the functioning of the engine significantly. If you ever come across anything suspicious in your vehicle then get in touch with a professional mechanic immediately to sort out the problem.

Louden motorcars have been providing car service and repair only to the owners of BMW, MINI, Mercedes and Porsche for the last 40 years in and around Dallas. We are rated among the top 10 shops in the U.S.