I am having a code show up repeatedly in my 2001 XC70. The code is P1332. My mechanic said it is related to the variable valve timing, possibly a sticky solenoid? It sounded expensive to get into. But the check engine light keeps coming on. Car runs like a champ though...

Maybe I could try replacing the oil with transmission fluid for a couple hundred miles to clean out the solenoid (anyone heard of that trick?)... Or could it help to switch to a fully synthetic oil?

 

I believe these can be removed and cleaned if your talking about the reset valve on the top.

I have heard of this trick with only a quart added to oil already in there, not fully. Probably will not work, do not recommend it.

 

Thanks. Does the transmission fluid trick risk damaging the engine?

 

Probably not, but really does not do much if you change the oil like you should and synthetic helps a lot.

 

Hi,
1- see first the wiring/connector of the VVT unit. Sometimes people pinch the wiring when they install the plastic cover.
2- see the lubrication system for low oil pressure or poor oil quality
3- see timing belt marks

 

Thanks for the info! Where exactly do I look for these pinched wires? I assume somewhere in the vicinity of the timing belt cover on the left side of the engine?

 

Remove both plastic covers from the top of the engine. You will see the ignition coils and the VVT unit that I think in your engine is installed in the exhaust camshaft. Make sure that the connector is clean and the wires are not damaged…. If everything looks OK than you better have a closer look at the engine lubrication system. Sludge build up will prevent the oil to reach a certain pressure and the VVT will not work properly.
Also cleaning of the VVT unit my help. This is a simple procedure. You’ll need a gasket and some cleaner.

 

Again, thanks for the very helpful reply. I am new to working on my 2001 XC and have one more question before delving into this project.

Is it necessary to remove the turbo pipe over the engine in order to remove the plastic covers on the top of the engine? Some instructions I have found say yes, others say it is not necessary...

 

Here is a picture of the pipe from the last post.

 

NO NO NO, it has to be loosened, (2) t-25 screws. The rest on the cover are t-30, just move the pipe out of the way when you get to the two under it.

 

Just to update. This has been an ongoing problem. I did find crimped parts of the wiring and replaced a portion of the wire. Still getting the code, usually within 20 miles of resetting the check engine light.

Next step I will remove the VVT unit, clean it as best I can with WD40, and see if that helps.

I also may replace the plastic connector, which is the one electrical connection I am not sure of.

Alex

 

Hi. I ended up replacing the VVT unit with a new one from the dealership. No codes for 80 miles or so, but this morning it threw P1655. Any ideas??

Alex

 

For anyone following this thread it seems that the new code is due to camshaft position sensor. I guess I'll replace that too when I can find it.