Hello, we have a Honda fit that makes a revving sound about 1 every 5 times we start it. Any ideas?

Link to video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PLEFFuaYiNYvu3s-yTRZkbyfd-d-90rC/view?usp=drivesdk

 

YES. Our 2020 EX makes the same noise. I don't have a diagnosis, just saying you're not alone.

Unrelated: If you're sure your tire pressures are okay (you've checked them), use the buttons on the bottom right of the steering wheel to go into Settings > Calibrate TPMS to make that message go away.

 

All GK5 models 2015 and onward suffer from a weak return spring in the (OEM) VTC actuator.

The weak spring causes direct contact with the timing chain at startup before oil has a chance to get into that area. This could be the noise you're hearing.

My GK5 (2016 LX) did this at startup starting around 60K. It was worse after sitting cold overnight.

The bad news is that timing chain wear only gets worse. It can eventually stretch the timing chain, and if the chain slips, goodbye engine.

The spring is a $24 part. The problem is the labor to get there.

https://spring-start.com/shop/ols/pr...pre-order-sale

 

The problem was supposed to be fixed with a redesigned actuator for the last few model years and any older cars that had been serviced for the issue. Is this what the original VTC actuator problem sounds like? I seem to recall hearing something else when I went looking for VTC actuator videos. Aqualset's video captures the sound very well IMO.

 

Yep, that's the VTEC actuator.
Many state that it's "only cosmetic" when in fact it slowly stretches the timing chain.
Leave it long enough and you'll be replacing valves, pistons etc.
The main culprit is extended oil change intervals (recommended by the oil life monitor).

I had the same issue on my 2016 (when I purchased it in 2020).
Luckily the car was still under warranty and Honda paid to fix it properly.
Some state that there's an "improved" actuator, when in fact it's just the same part as before.

Fast forward 6 years and I still haven't heard the noise return.
I attribute it to my stringent oil change intervals of every 6 months (or 3k miles).
It's a tiny sump, and that direct injected system dumps a lot of fuel into the oil, especially in city driving.

 

VTEC is different from VTC, though they can be combined on the same engine (the case on the L15B1).

VTEC lets the ECM switch which camshaft lobes a given set of valves is following. Such as having the intake valves follow a low-lift profile that's good for torque and efficiency at low to mid RPMs, then a high-lift profile that maximizes peak power at high RPM. Or the previously-known-as-VTEC-E setup where one intake valve effectively stays closed at low RPM, which causes combustion-stabilizing swirl in the cylinder - useful for lean-burn operation.

VTC is variable cam timing, which Honda sometimes calls iVTEC. It lets the ECM change the timing of one or both camshafts. The camshafts still turn at half the speed of the crankshaft, but the exact alignment of the cam and crank can be varied, similar to how the ECM varies ignition timing according to engine speed and load.

It's possible to bake cam timing change into VTEC cam profiles, but VTEC is an on/off mechanism. VTEC cam timing changes would also have to be on/off all-or-nothing changes. VTC lets the ECM adjust the timing anywhere within a range of values, to match the exact situation.

 

That's incorrect.
According to the Honda service receipt, it specifically states:
"09-010 1101Z9 Replace the VTC actuator"
1 x 14310-5R1-013

 

What's incorrect? Your first post? You can edit it.

 

My posts are consistant.

If you have a problem with Honda's naming scheme for their parts, please take it up with them.
I'm only here to assist those with accurate information as it relates to my experience with the product.

 

Sigh.
Again, VTEC and VTC are two different things. The "VTC actuator" is built into the intake cam gear. The closest thing you get to a part named "VTEC actuator" is the valve rockers. The rockers have oil-pressure-driven / spring-return pins in them that lock multiple rockers together. VTEC = switching cam lobe shape. VTC = variable cam phasing (twist).

VTEC is controlled by 15810-5R0-003 Valve Assy., Spool (ROCKER ARM OIL CONTROL VALVE).
VTC is controlled by 15830-5R7-A03 Valve Assy., VTC Oil Control (VTC OIL CONTROL SOLENOID VALVE)

Two different systems doing different things, both in the cylinder head, both related to the camshafts.

 

You Honda Fit all knowing dealer hating "Einstiens" should open your own Honda Fit repair shop. So us mere mortal Honda Fit owners can get our Honda Fits maintained and serviced from your all knowing knowledge. 🧎‍♂️🧎‍♂️🧎‍♂️

 

Resistance is futile. You will be educated.

Aww. The forum won't let you post in all-caps.

 

Typical male feminist.

Tone policing.

It's not what is said.

​​​​​​​It's how it's said.

 

You need to replace the spring with that one mentioned above from Spring Start + the timing chain tensioner.