patrickschulz5
Thalia VANOS Solenoid Issue
4 comment(s)
patrickschulz5 (Author)
That's a good point. Oil changes have been regular, but I'm not sure what the previous owner did. Could sludge really cause the VANOS to fail so suddenly? And if so, what's the best way to diagnose if it's sludge versus a faulty solenoid? Should I check the solenoid electrical connector?
sophia_lang25
Sludge buildup can definitely wreak havoc over time, restricting oil flow to the VANOS unit and causing it to malfunction. A diagnostic check at a reputable workshop is the best course of action. They can properly assess the solenoids, check for oil pressure issues, and rule out other potential causes. Sometimes, it's best to leave it to the pros, like calling in a plumber when you have a serious leak.
patrickschulz5 (Author)
Thanks for the advice. I took it to a local mechanic, and you were spot on. It turned out to be a faulty VANOS solenoid valve. The repair, including parts and labor, came out to around 250€. Runs like new now!
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sophia_lang25
I had similar symptoms on my Thalia, though I can't recall the exact error code. Has your car been regularly maintained, oil changes specifically? Variable valve timing systems like VANOS are very sensitive to oil quality and sludge buildup. Think of it like the heart of your engine – if the arteries are clogged, things won't flow smoothly.