The cam phaser is a mechanical device that adjusts the timing of the camshaft in response to changing engine conditions, such as RPM, to optimize valve timing for better engine efficiency, performance, and emissions control. It helps to adjust the timing of the camshaft’s position relative to the crankshaft.
When a cam phaser malfunctions, it can harm your engine’s VCT solenoid, which regulates the timing of the engine valves by allowing oil to flow through it at a specific pressure. The check engine light will also come on due to the ECU unit. Numerous issues, such as knocking and difficult idling, might affect the engine.
In this reading, we’ll explore what a cam phaser is, its function, diagram, and how it works. We’ll also learn what causes the cam phaser to go bad and its signs of failure.
Let’s get started!
What Is A Cam Phaser?
A cam phaser is a device that modifies the timing of the camshaft, which controls the engine’s valve timing, to improve engine performance, smoothness, and efficiency. The cam phaser regulates the camshaft, which opens and closes the cylinder’s intake and exhaust valves. The camshaft is linked to the cam phaser. Typically, it is a hydraulic type that modifies the engine’s valve timing using oil. In this way, a cam phaser controls emissions, horsepower, and engine efficiency.
A computer-controlled servo is used to calibrate a cam phaser, which is a sprocket that moves an engine’s camshaft in proportion to its crankshaft. Engine intake and exhaust valve timing, which is controlled by camshafts, determine how aggressively an engine performs.
Functions
A cam phaser is primarily used to adjust the position of the engine’s camshaft. It is a component of the VVT system that aids in adjusting the camshaft position to get the ideal valve timing for the motor’s best performance. The phasers are computer- and hydraulically-controlled. One is located at the end of each engine camshaft.
Diagram Of A Cam Phaser
How A Cam Phaser Works
The cam phaser is a component of the VVT (variable valve timing) system that aids in adjusting the camshaft position to get the ideal valve timing for the motor’s best performance. The phasers are computer- and hydraulically-controlled. One is located at the end of each engine camshaft.
The VVT solenoid, also referred to as the oil control solenoid, turns each one on. This solenoid regulates the oil pressure applied to the cam phaser. Each will have its own solenoid in it. Some automobiles come equipped with phasers for the intake and exhaust camshafts.
There are other variants, though, that have just one phaser. This one phaser may be located on the intake or exhaust camshaft, depending on the vehicle model you drive. Cam phasers are responsible for the camshaft’s rotation. When necessary, this action aids in closing and opening the valves.
The phasers open the valves at precise moments while the engine is running at lower RPMs to boost performance and increase throttle responsiveness. The valves are timed differently at higher RPMs to increase fuel efficiency and decrease hazardous emissions.
Related: What Is A Camshaft? Its Parts and How It Works
Causes Of a Cam Phaser Failure
A cam phaser problems can also result in broken or bent camshafts, fractured heads, damaged valve lifters, damaged rocker arms, etc. As a result, your engine won’t rev up to its maximum capacity. You’ll hear that your engine doesn’t seem to be revving up. Additionally, the engine will seem slow and have poor acceleration. Here’s a breakdown:
Low Oil Pressure and Engine Wear
Wear in the engine is a sign that the phaser isn’t receiving enough oil flow. More oil is lost through the crank, engine rod, and cam bearings as the engine ages. The cam phasers receive insufficient oil delivery because they are the final component to receive oil. Consequently, the cam phaser shakes back and forth.
The 5.4L V8 engine experiences the most cam phaser problems as a result of low oil pressure. The Ford 5.4L engine experienced issues when the ECU was unable to control the variable cam timing phasers due to phaser wear or low oil pressure. Ford switched to the 411-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 in 2010 to replace the 5.4 V-8 for this reason.
Internal Cam Phaser Wear
Typically, the excessive cam phaser noise and cam phaser failure are the results of a mixture of both forms of wear. If the cam phaser is worn out, the ECU cannot regulate the variable cam timing, and the oil flow cannot be sufficiently observed.
Problems with the Engine’s Electrical Control Unit
The engine control module controls the engine’s actuators. Your cam phaser could stop working if the computer loses control of it.
Sludge And Debris
To ensure that the oil lubricates the camshaft correctly, it must pass through each component. The oil flow will be hampered if there is debris in the oil, which will prevent the oil from adequately lubricating the engine’s parts. As a result, the cam phaser will experience higher engine wear.
Flawed ECU
The ECU is in charge of regulating the cam phasers. The phaser could malfunction if a bug prevents the computer from doing its function. These ECU issues can be promptly identified with the best code scanner. You may make sure the phasers continue to operate as intended by fixing them.
No Oil Changes Are Made
Oil changes are required after a particular number of miles have been logged on the car. Oil pressure drops as a result of the oil being drier over time from the heat of the engine. Additionally, the oil gets contaminated, which has an impact on how well the engine’s components perform. miles.
Gear/Sprocket damage
Additionally, motor oil aids in lubricating the gears and sprockets. These expensive components will prematurely break if there is too much friction, which will cause issues with the cam phaser. You can always add friction modifiers for less wear if you are concerned about proper lubrication. The best oil producers of today, however, offer everything required to maintain the engine operating smoothly.
Symptoms of Bad Cam Phaser
Reduced engine performance and a dashboard check engine light are the two most typical symptoms of a bad cam phaser. The engine may also sound noisier than usual, which is a sign that you need to inspect and fix it right away. Here’s a breakdown:
Rattling Noises
When the engine is running at its base idle, the cam phaser should lock into place. However, it might not be able to lock in place if the phaser has failed. A knocking or rattling sound is the end outcome. It should be audible coming from the motor’s top. When the engine is idling or after it has warmed up, it is simpler to hear.
A Decrease In Engine Performance
To make sure the engine performs as planned, the valve timing needs to be optimized. Timing will be advanced or delayed if the cam phaser isn’t working properly. The engine’s performance will suffer as a result of either of these difficulties. You might experience difficulties with acceleration, a rough idle, or obtaining all of the power it often produces.
Check Engine Light
Anytime a system malfunctions, the auto-computer will alert you. With the help of the powertrain control module (PCM), sensors continuously monitor the camshaft’s position. The Check Engine Light will come on if the module receives a subpar reading from the sensors. Although there may be other causes for this placement issue, the cam phaser is frequently the culprit. You should be able to pinpoint the issue more precisely by using your expert scanner to examine the diagnostic trouble codes.
Cam Phaser Replacement Cost
Cam phasers typically cost between $750 and $2,500 to replace. This is not an easy task, and most beginners won’t do it on their own. However, the overall cost varies depending on the kind of automobile you drive and the shop you use to fix the car. Doing the repair yourself will save you some money. But if you don’t know what you’re doing or don’t have the necessary instruments, you might do more harm than good. Instead, leave this sophisticated repair to the experts.