Levorg Engine Issues: Bad VANOS Solenoid Symptoms

I had a similar issue with my 2019 Subaru WRX. As someone with moderate experience working on cars, I initially noticed the same symptoms, the check engine light, increased fuel consumption, and sluggish acceleration. The variable timing system was indeed the culprit. After scanning the engine codes, it showed the VANOS solenoid was malfunctioning. The workshop found that one of the camshaft solenoid valves had accumulated oil sludge, affecting the variable timing control. The repair took about 3 hours and cost 250€, including parts and labor. The mechanic cleaned the entire VANOS system and replaced the faulty solenoid. After the fix, the engine misfire issues disappeared completely, and fuel consumption returned to normal. Before you proceed with repairs, could you share: Have you scanned for error codes? Does the engine make any unusual noises during cold starts? How many miles/kilometers are on the engine? When was your last oil change? This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced and could save you time at the workshop.

Thank you for following up. My vehicle is fairly new with 121612 KM, and the last major service was just done 2 months ago with an oil change. I did scan for codes using a basic OBD reader which showed P0011, indicating a timing over-advanced condition. The engine does make a slight rattling noise during cold starts that goes away after warming up. The variable timing issues youre describing sound very similar to what Im experiencing. The low power and rough idle are particularly noticeable. Did cleaning the VANOS system completely resolve your timing chain noise during startup?

Thanks for providing those details. Yes, my situation was nearly identical, I also got the P0011 code and had that same cold start rattle that would disappear after warm-up. Cleaning the VANOS solenoid fixed about 80% of the timing chain noise, but I discovered the timing chain tensioner also needed attention. The workshop found it wasnt maintaining proper tension, contributing to the startup rattle. They recommended replacing both components since they work together in the variable timing system. The total repair ended up at 450€ with the additional tensioner work, but it completely eliminated the cold start noise and restored proper engine performance. The check engine light never came back, and fuel consumption dropped back to normal levels. Your mileage and maintenance history suggest this is likely the same issue. The low power symptoms and rough idle are classic signs of VANOS system problems. Since youve already confirmed the P0011 code, I would recommend having both the solenoid and tensioner checked rather than just cleaning the VANOS system alone. The hardest part was finding a workshop familiar with these variable timing systems. Make sure to ask if they have experience specifically with Subaru VANOS repairs.

Thanks for the detailed response about the timing chain tensioner and VANOS system issues. That additional insight about checking both components makes a lot of sense, especially given the cold start symptoms Im experiencing. I called a few workshops and found one that specializes in Subaru engines and has extensive experience with inlet camshaft and VANOS repairs. They quoted me 500€ for a complete diagnosis and repair of both the solenoid and tensioner, which seems reasonable based on your experience. Ive scheduled the repair for next week. Will definitely have them check the complete variable timing system and look for any oil sludge buildup that might be affecting the VANOS operation. Really hoping this resolves both the performance issues and that annoying cold start rattle. Thanks again for helping me narrow down the problem. Its reassuring to know someone else has successfully dealt with similar symptoms and got their vehicle running properly again.