Engine & Performance
Camshaft Adjusters & Solenoids
Variable valve timing depends on clean oil reaching a small solenoid at exactly the right moment. When it does not, the engine loses power and sets a code.
Signs you need this
- Brief rattle from the front of the engine on start-up
- Loss of power above a certain rpm
- Camshaft actuator or timing over-advanced codes
- Rough idle that improves once the engine is warm
How we approach it
Camshaft adjuster magnets clog with varnish from extended oil intervals; the adjusters themselves wear and lose their ability to hold position. Symptoms range from a brief start-up rattle to a hard misfire under load. The magnets are an affordable part and a straightforward job; the adjusters are deeper. We test solenoid resistance and command them through Xentry to see which are actually failing, so you replace what is broken rather than the whole set on principle.
What the job includes
- 01Solenoid resistance testing and Xentry actuator commands
- 02Camshaft adjuster magnet replacement and seal renewal
- 03Camshaft adjuster (phaser) replacement where worn
- 04Oil supply passage and screen inspection
- 05Oil and filter change with correct MB-approved specification
- 06Live timing verification on road test
Common questions
Could this be caused by the oil I use?
It can. These engines need an MB 229.5 or 229.51-approved oil changed on schedule. Cheap oil and 15,000-mile intervals are the fastest route to clogged adjusters.
Do I need all four adjusters replaced?
Rarely. We test each one and replace what fails. Shops that quote the full set without testing are guessing with your money.
Let us take a look at it.
Call and describe what the car is doing. We will give you an honest assessment before any work begins.
7492 Slater Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 · Mon–Fri 8:00am–5:00pm
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