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A failing Variable Valve Timing (VVT) control solenoid usually shows up as a rough idle, a drop in fuel mileage, or a check engine light that won’t go away. The part itself is small, but it controls the oil pressure that moves your camshafts, so when it sticks, your engine’s timing goes off and drivability suffers. This guide breaks down the best replacements by fitment, value, and reliability so you can get your engine running smoothly again without overpaying.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind GoCarLife. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
If your engine’s check-engine light is on and you suspect the variable valve timing control solenoid (the part that adjusts valve timing for better fuel economy and power) is failing, this roundup covers dependable aftermarket and genuine options for Chevy trucks, Ford V8s, BMWs, and Honda V6s.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Variable Valve Timing Control Solenoid
The right VVT solenoid is determined by your vehicle’s specific engine code and the original part number stamped on your old unit. A solenoid built for a 5.4L Ford V8 will not fit a 3.5L Honda V6, so the first step is always confirming the exact application for your year, make, and model.
Match the part number, not just the brand
Manufacturers list multiple cross-reference numbers (like 12633613 or 11367585425) to show compatibility. Compare the number on your current part to the replacement’s reference list before ordering. If you are unsure, use the VIN check tools or contact the seller with your VIN to verify fitment.
Decide between budget, mid-range, and premium
Budget-friendly solenoids get the job done but may have mixed longevity reports. Mid-range parts from established aftermarket brands offer a strong balance of price and performance. Premium or Genuine OEM parts cost more but are designed and validated by the manufacturer for a precise fit and calibration.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Weight | Material | Unit Count | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dorman 917-010★ Best Overall | Chevy/GMC Trucks | 6.4 oz | Aluminum | 1 | Amazon |
| NOVAPARTS 19419980Premium Pick | Chevy Malibu/Impala | 1 lb | Stainless Steel | 1 | Amazon |
| GM Genuine 12636175Top Performer | GM OEM Replacement | 5.28 oz | Metal | 1 | Amazon |
| A-Premium 2-PC | Ford 4.6L/5.4L | 15.1 oz | Stainless Steel | 2 | Amazon |
| HiSport VANOS | BMW 2.0-3.0L | — | Aluminum | 2 | Amazon |
| FAERSI 2 PCS | BMW VANOS Engines | — | Stainless Steel | 2 | Amazon |
| Dasbecan 19419980 | Chevy Malibu/Impala | — | Stainless Steel | 1 | Amazon |
| Baxzl VVT Solenoid | Honda/Acura V6 | — | Aluminum | 1 | Amazon |
| Dorman 918-056 | Honda/Acura Spool Valve | 15.36 oz | Metal | 1 | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Dorman 917-010 Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 700+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The Chevy truck fix that lifts fuel economy and smooths the idle.
Buyers report a 17-to-20 MPG jump on a 2007 Chevy Colorado, plus smoother idle and starts after install. That kind of real-world gain is why this part earns the top spot for GM trucks, and at 6.4 ounces it is featherlight yet built from quality aluminum.
The install is famously quick, with most owners finishing in under five minutes on the Colorado and Canyon. It also cleared a 2002 GMC Envoy’s rough idle and power codes, restoring timing control on 4- and 5-cyl engines.
The one mixed note is the check engine light, which goes away for most but has returned for a few.
Why owners pick it
- Under-five-minute install on most Chevy trucks
- Reported MPG jump from 17 to 20
- Aluminum build with limited lifetime warranty
The honest trade-offs
- Check engine light can return in some cases
- Idle stability is good but may need a code reset to fully clear
The crowd favorite: the go-to replacement for Chevy Colorado, Canyon, Trailblazer, and Envoy owners who want verified fit and a solid MPG recovery.
Think twice if: you need this for a Ford or BMW — match the part number to your engine before ordering.
2. NOVAPARTS 19419980 Engine Intake Variable Timing Oil Control Valve VVT Solenoid
The Malibu and Impala fix that has owners passing inspection in 45 minutes.
For 2014-2015 Chevy Malibu and Impala 2.5L engines, this solenoid delivers a direct bolt-on replacement that has cured check engine lights on the first try. Owners mention the light went off immediately after install, with one DIYer finishing the swap in about 45 minutes.
What stands out is the thoughtful packaging — the rubber grommets come pre-installed in the solenoid instead of on the bolt, which makes the install cleaner and avoids the common frustration of dropped parts. The kit includes 1 valve, 1 gasket, and 3 bolts, so you have everything you need.
At just 1 pound, it is heavier than many competitors, which speaks to the solid stainless steel construction and corrosion resistance. The threaded oil port design ensures a secure seal against leaks.
What wins owners over
- Complete kit with gasket and bolts included
- Rubber grommets pre-installed for easy fitting
- Check engine light goes off after install
Watch out for
- Packaging can be rough during shipping
- Free replacement covers 6 months only
Best for: Chevy Malibu and Impala owners who want a complete, ready-to-fit kit with a strong warranty and an easy DIY afternoon.
Consider others if: your vehicle is not a 2.5L GM — this is a single-application part.
3. GM Genuine Parts 12636175 Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid
The OEM-standard solenoid that solved a stubborn P0023 code on a 2012 Enclave.
When aftermarket sensors failed to fix a Buick Enclave’s ongoing check engine light, this genuine GM part was the one that finally resolved the P0023 code. GM Genuine Parts are engineered and tested by General Motors for Chevy, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac fitment.
The painted metal coating resists corrosion in the hot, oily engine bay. Weighing just 5.28 ounces, it is lighter than the Dorman 917-010 at 6.4 ounces, yet customers note it feels durable and OEM-quality.
At 24 months with unlimited mileage, the warranty is stronger than most aftermarket options. The trade-off is that this is a single piece, so you will pay a bit more per unit than you would for a budget multi-pack.
OEM confidence: this genuine GM solenoid bolts on without modification and installs easily, and the 2-year unlimited-mileage warranty gives you coverage that most aftermarket parts do not offer.
Fit note: this matches the original equipment calibration, so check your engine code — it may require more disassembly than simpler swaps.
4. A-Premium 2-PC Engine Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid
The two-piece Ford set that cleared misfire codes and saved a quarter of the OEM price.
On a 2006 Ford Expedition 5.4 3V, this pair fixed misfire, lean, and retarded timing codes that had the engine running rough. The old solenoids were rattling from spring failure, and after 150 miles of testing, the new ones had restored full engine performance.
The stainless steel exterior and 15.1-ounce weight make it the heaviest pick here — compare that to the Dorman at just 6.4 ounces — which reflects the substantial build of the two complete solenoids. You get 2 VCT solenoids, 2 mounting screws, and 2 camshaft seals in the box.
Fitment covers a broad range of Ford F-150, Super Duty, Expedition, Explorer, Mustang, and Lincoln Navigator models with 4.6L and 5.4L 3V engines. One honest caveat: the mounting screw is not secured to the solenoid like the OEM, so be careful not to drop it into the valve cover during install.
Why it earns a top pick
- Includes 2 solenoids, screws, and camshaft seals
- Fixed misfire and timing codes on Ford 5.4L
- Roughly a quarter of the OEM price
Keep in mind
- Mounting screw can drop into the valve cover if you are not careful
- Mixed feedback on long-term reliability
Reach for this if: you own a Ford 4.6L or 5.4L 3V and want both solenoids replaced in one affordable kit.
Look elsewhere if: you prefer the security of an OEM-secured screw or need a single-unit replacement for a Chevy.
5. HiSport Engine Variable Valve Timing VANOS Solenoid VVT 11367585425
The BMW VANOS pair that brought a 2007 E70 X5 back to life after 15 years.
After 15 years of service, the original VANOS solenoids on a 2007 E70 X5 were replaced with this HiSport set, and reviewers point out it “works like a charm” a year later. For BMW owners chasing codes like 2A87, 2A82, 2A9A, or P0016, this pair targets the exact source of the problem.
Aluminum bodies are precision-machined to factory specs with viton oil seals for leak-free installs. At 6.1 x 2.17 x 2.17 inches, it is only about 5% more compact than the Dorman 917-010’s 6.4 x 2 x 2.6-inch footprint, so it fits in the same tight engine bay spaces.
This is a 2-piece set with a lifetime warranty, making it a strong value for BMW N51, N52, and N54 engines. The caveat is reliability is mixed — most get perfect fit and function, but an occasional unit has failed within a month, causing rough idle and stalls.
The strong points
- Lifetime warranty and friendly customer service
- Viton oil seals for leak-free install
- Precision-machined to factory specifications
Be aware
- Occasional unit fails within a month
- Longevity unverified in early reviews
Best for BMW DIYers: who want a two-piece VANOS set with a safety-net lifetime warranty at a mid-range price.
Who this is not for: anyone without a BMW 2.0L-3.0L engine — the fit is specific to N-series powerplants.
6. Dorman 918-056 Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Compatible with Select Acura / Honda Models (OE FIX)
The smart half-replacement kit that stops Honda oil leaks from killing your alternator.
This Dorman OE Fix is a clever approach: instead of replacing the whole spool valve assembly, it lets you swap just the top half and the failed gasket. That saves money and simplifies the repair on specified Honda and Acura vehicles, and it comes complete with 2 gaskets, 3 mounting bolts, and an oil pressure sensor.
Owners of 2010 and 2015 Honda Pilots report the oil leak into the alternator stops completely after install, and one reviewer notes the part “lasted as long as the car did.” At 15.36 ounces, it is the heaviest pick in this guide, which reflects the solid metal construction of the full top-half assembly.
Install is famously quick — about 3 minutes for some owners — and the price undercuts dealer alternatives. The mixed truth is reliability: most get a lasting fix, but a few report running issues, so treat the included parts carefully.
Why it is worth it
- Replaces just the top half, saving money
- Includes gaskets, bolts, and oil pressure sensor
- Stops oil leaks that destroy alternators
The fine print
- Mixed reports on long-term running reliability
- Fitment must be verified for your exact model
Pick this if: your Honda or Acura spool valve is leaking oil and you want a cheaper, complete top-half fix with an oil pressure sensor included.
skip it if: you need a full assembly replacement rather than the top-half OE fix.
7. Dasbecan Engine Variable Timing Oil Control Valve VVT Solenoid 19419980
The budget-friendly GM 2.5L fix that has owners driving 100+ trouble-free miles.
For the 2014-2015 Chevy Malibu and Impala 2.5L, this Dasbecan solenoid delivers a straightforward fix at an entry-level price. Shoppers say driving over 100 miles after install with no check engine light, and the kit includes the gasket and 3 bolts for a complete swap.
Stainless steel resists corrosion and deformation, matching the original fit. What wins people over is the reliability — it is the most-discussed positive aspect of this part, followed closely by its low cost.
But the budget tier shows its limits in the durability notes. A few owners have seen failures after three weeks, and multiple reports mention oil leakage from the top of the valve, so this one is best for a quick, temporary fix rather than a forever part.
What you get
- Complete kit with gasket and bolts
- No check engine light after 100+ miles for most
- Stainless steel, anti-corrosion build
Know the risks
- Some units fail after three weeks
- Oil leakage reported from the top of the valve
Best for: budget-conscious Malibu and Impala owners who need a working solenoid today and can accept the durability risk.
Reconsider if: you want a long-term fix — the leakage and early-failure reports favor the NOVAPARTS alternative.
8. FAERSI 2 PCS Engine Variable Timing Oil Control Valve Solenoid VVT
The code-clearing BMW pair that pulled a 335i out of limp mode.
A 335i throwing camshaft and crankshaft codes, misfiring on all six cylinders, and stuck in limp mode got a full recovery after installing this FAERSI pair. Symptoms vanished, and the owner confirms the car is running perfectly — a compelling result for a part at this price.
The stainless steel exterior covers a multi-metal core of alloy steel, aluminum, brass, carbon steel, and cast iron. That material range explains why owners praise the value — it is significantly cheaper than buying genuine BMW VANOS solenoids.
Codes P0010, P0013, P0011, and P0014 are the usual targets, and this set is designed to turn off the check engine light and improve fuel economy. The catch: one reviewer noted a missing gasket in the box, so check all components before you start the install.
The value move: a two-piece VANOS set that has restored full drivability to misfiring BMWs at a fraction of the dealer price.
Check before install: verify the gaskets are included in your box — one owner noted a missing component.
9. VVT Solenoid Variable Valve Timing Solenoid for Honda Odyssey 2008-2017
The Honda V6 leak-stopper that has Odyssey owners smiling at a third of the price.
For Honda Odyssey, Pilot, Accord, and Crosstour 3.5L V6 engines, this solenoid is a direct-fit replacement that fixes the infamous VVT solenoid oil leak. The 2008 Accord V6 owner who took a chance on it despite skeptical reviews found the part fit perfectly and stopped the leak completely.
The aluminum body and flanged connector match the original specs, and included everything needed for the swap. It also fixes the check engine light, which is the most common reason owners land on this page, and it comes at about a third of the price of some alternatives.
Reliability is the standout positive, with a 2014 Odyssey owner reporting two months of perfect operation. The mixed note is oil leak control — most see it solved, but a few report the issue persisting, and one owner had the valve stick after a few months.
Why Honda owners like it
- Finishes the VVT solenoid leak on 3.5L V6s
- Fixes the check engine light
- Costs about one-third of dealer alternatives
Consider this
- Some buyers report the leak persisting
- One valve stuck after a few months of use
Reach for this if: you drive a Honda 3.5L V6 and want a proven fix for the oil leak and check engine light without dealer pricing.
Be cautious if: your priority is absolute long-term reliability — a minority report early sticking issues.
Understanding the Specs
OEM part number cross-reference
Every solenoid lists multiple reference numbers (like 12633613 or 11367585425) that map to the original factory part. Match the number on your current part to the replacement’s list before ordering to guarantee a correct fit.
Material and construction
Aluminum and stainless steel bodies resist corrosion in the hot, oily engine environment. A heavier part often signals more substantial metal, but weight alone does not determine quality — the seal design and internal spring matter more.
FAQ
What does a VVT solenoid do and why does it fail?
How do I know if my VVT solenoid is bad?
Can I replace a VVT solenoid myself?
Will a VVT solenoid fix my check engine light?
Is an OEM solenoid worth the higher price?
What is the difference between VVT, VCT, and VANOS solenoids?
Can a leaking VVT solenoid damage my engine?
How long does a VVT solenoid replacement last?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For the majority of shoppers, the best variable valve timing control solenoid winner is the Dorman 917-010 because it delivers proven MPG gains and a five-minute install on common Chevy trucks. If you want a genuine factory part, grab the GM Genuine 12636175. And for an affordable two-solenoid Ford fix, the A-Premium 2-PC set is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, GoCarLife earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.