VTEC System Malfunction

Old Jul 21, 2010 | 11:45 AM
  #1  
imistahimstahi's Avatar
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Lightbulb VTEC System Malfunction

I got a 2003 tl type s and the Vtec System malfunction light came on, does anyone know the proble or the reason why it comes on? need some troubleshooting tips
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Old Jul 22, 2010 | 06:44 PM
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Dirty oil, and/or sludge are the most common problems. Try seafoam or some other crankcase cleaner followed by an oil & filter change. Use 5w20 or 5w30 and a decent filter. [oe filters are fine, just no cheapie off brand crap]
Next step would be to remove the vtec solenoid, and clean it and the screen. [brake or carb cleaner work well for this] Beyond this you're probably better off with professional help. [my opinion]
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Old Jul 22, 2010 | 07:39 PM
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I agree here- how does the dipstick look? how are you about oil changes? way overdue?
If its sludge prob in the system seafoam will get rid of it,
Seafoam- 1/2 can to 5 qts oil in engine, install a new filter, cheapie ok
the new filter is because it will get a LOT of stuff loose and sent to the filter,,old one may become full and not catch any more..new should get it all

drive at least 30 minutes straight time, no stopping of engine, make some heat in the system and let the cleaner do its job
Do some accelleration in a lower gear from 4000 to 5000 so vtec is working and its parts get cleaner thru them
ok to drive several days--200 miles-- then change oil and filter
MUST have 15 minute warm up drive right before oil change so sludge gets liquidy and will drain from the pan
the vtec system runs on oil pressure and oil pressure changes with rpm

or the power wire to the selenoid fell off/left off after some work done on the car?
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Old Jul 22, 2010 | 07:40 PM
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take it to a parts store for a code reading and report back
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Old Jul 22, 2010 | 09:08 PM
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we have a vtec malfunction light?? Since when? Mine doesnt

Last edited by fsttyms1; Jul 23, 2010 at 05:17 PM.
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