How to Deal With a Variable Valve Timing Failure in Your Volvo

How to Deal With a Variable Valve Timing Failure in Your Volvo

For nearly one hundred years, Volvo has made vehicles renowned for their quality and safety. Having been pioneers in creating such safety features as the three point safety belt (now standard in all cars) and some of the first rear-facing car seats, the company’s reputation is beyond reproof. Although they are some of the most reliable on the road, there is still routine maintenance that needs to be done, and some issues may arise that require professional attention.

The variable valve timing system is a series of parts within the engine that kick in to assist when extra strain is put on the car, requiring more power output. None of this should cause problems on a day to day basis. In fact, being able to produce additional power when needed is what alleviates excess strain on the engine so the many other parts involved do not wear out prematurely. The difficulty is in monitoring that the variable valve timing is working as it should, and getting proper help at the first signs of a problem.

This is a specialized part that may need attention before your next regularly-scheduled maintenance. This requires extra vigilance on the part of the owner to be able to recognize a problem and know when to bring your Volvo to a qualified service center.

This is a complex system, and it is not recommended you attempt troubleshooting the variable valve timing system at home. With any luxury vehicle, your car will take care of you as long as you take care of your car. At the first notice of any of these problems, it is worth coming in for an inspection.

Common Signs of Valve Timing Unit Failure

There are some commons signs that it is time to bring in your Volvo to see if the timing valve system needs repair:

• Check engine light: This may sound silly, but all too often drivers ignore this warning light, thinking a tire is just a little low on air or they can get by until the next scheduled maintenance. If the engine is not getting the boost it should be because the timing system is malfunctioning, it will quickly put strain on other parts and go from a small problem to a big one.
• Engine oil/fuel economy: Maintaining clean oil is always the first step in keeping an engine running well. If you notice dirty oil when checking or changing your oil, this is a good first sign that the timing system may be experiencing issues as well. When pulling oil through the system, dirty oil equates directly to additional strain and potential damage on the parts involved. The timing belt, solenoid, and gears within the engine should have clean oil. In the same way a sudden decrease in fuel economy is an early warning sign of damage or parts not operating properly.
• Change in sound when idling: Much like fuel economy and motor oil, the sound your car makes is a way to spot issues before they become complete engine failure. Because the valve system truly kicks in at higher rotations per minute, it is actually easier to hear that something has changed when the car is idling and therefore operating at a lower RPM. With many moving parts, a change in the sounds being made is an early warning to bring your car in and swap a damaged part before it strains others.

Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. is Here for Your Volvo

It’s important to remember that regular maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs down the road. Having your Volvo serviced by a certified technician will give you peace of mind and save money in the long run.

Scherer’s Sales and Service, Inc. specializes in European makes and models. We offer all the amenities you need to keep living your life while your car is in the shop including loaner vehicles and a 36 month/36,000 mile warranty. Our factory-scheduled maintenance and safety & emission testing will ensure you are prepared for the unpredictable. Call or stop by one of our Allentown, Bethlehem, and Macungie, PA locations to see how we can help you today!