So i understand that vcm kicks in during sustained hwy runs.. but i want to know what happens in stop n go traffic? when you're just sitting idle...does it shut down a few cyls to prevent unnecessary fuel burn during those idle/slow crawls?

 

Good question...and that is something that is not explained in depth to that detail. I would ask the head Cert. Tech. at the Acura dealer. He/she has been trained on that engine...and should know??.....and MAYBE a few real sharp Serv. Mgr's. Also, the Regional Serv. Rep. would know the answer...or again...should...and that question can be left with the Serv. Mgr. to ask when that person makes their periodic stop.

That's how I would get the answer. But, is that answer available on the net?? Possibly. I might search to see....but, I'd rather hear it from a "service type person" that has been in the engine classes and was taught about that engine's VCM operation.

 

I'm not a service guy, but i don't think VCM works at idle - or even at low speeds. According to Acura's descriptions, it deactivates cylinders while underway and at light engine loads. Light loads would suggest that the vehicle is moving and not accelerating or climbing an incline.

I do find that it is often activated in normal in-town driving, though - maybe at speeds of 20-30mph and more.

 

Well, Mike, I did learn this....when the engine is cold all 6 cyl. are functioning at idle. Now is it possible that when it's warmed up that it drops cylinders?? Again...we need "in depth" knowledge from a Tech. that has thorough knowledge of our engine. I wouldn't even speculate any more than I have.

We all probably should stop guessing at this point and see if we can find the real answers from a reliable source and then report it here....for those that are interested in this sort of thing. I'm sure many are not....but, some are curious...like us!!! LOL!!!

 

the 'sales' guy mentioned it would de-activate cylinders when there is no load/light load on the engine.. but its coming from a 'sales' guy. ...and he didnt' explicitly say it would do that while in stop n go traffic.

Someone has got to know lol....and it would make sense for it to do this.

 

Well, I've been around a TON of "sales guys" and I wouldn't believe them one little bit. I've owned over 60 cars...and many years ago, when times were tough...I sold cars at new car dealers. I learned from being around them that many didn't care about the vehicle so much...just to get someone to sign on the dotted line.

Many told me...they never sold cars before....some sold refrigerators! They said a salesman can sell anything. This doesn't cover ALL of them....but, they are just not into the technical side for sure...most of them. I did find a few....very few exceptions. And even then...they wouldn't know or cared to know the internal workings of an engine...let alone how the VCM might work, etc. Again....some rare exceptions here and there.

For me...not the person to ask for such a detailed hi tech question.

I'll work on it and try to find the answer....from and engine trained tech or higher.