I thought semi-synthetic was An option. I use only Honda oil.

 

It's not specifically mentioned in my owners manual, so yes, acceptable but I don't know why anyone would use semi when full synthetic is so readily available.

 

My understanding is no. There is even a popular YouTube mechanic, , who says there technically is not a problem with a bad VTC actuator.

 

I have a 2018 Honda Fit Sport with 6speed manual, my VTC actuator was changed by Honda at 32k miles. Previous owner complained about a noise during startup.

 

Sorry for reviving a potentially dead thread but I recently had the dealership tell me that failure to repair this could result in catastrophic engine and drivetrain failure over text. They wanted $1800 to fix it, I pointed out this thread and they lowered it to $1300... I declined and submitted these screenshots to the NHTSA here: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls

Highly encourage others to do the same if they are suffering the same situation. Dealership wouldn't fix it without a recall.

Dealership confirmation of catastrophic failure risk due to VTC

 

From memory, recalls are almost exclusively focused on safety issues. I'm not sure that this qualifies for that. The dealer may have expressed doom and gloom and the end of the universe to pry your wallet out of your pocket, but I suspect that if NHTSA asks Honda about this their answer will be along the lines "Oh no, it's just a trivial matter which results in a bit of irritable noise. If there is a subsequent mechanical failure in the car then it must certainly be because the owner failed to properly maintain it."

 

Currently in the same situation. The dealer BLAMED me for not having the oil changed frequently enough. I followed the maintenance minder that THEY put in the car. I'll get it changed more often though.

Question: What exactly did you submit to NHTSA? I already had the injectors replaced under that extended TSB warrant. Now the system entry warning light is on and there was a 9-year extension for the stop start button to be replaced but sadly I missed the date.

If and when I do decide to replace the actuator/guides, chain etc. I'm going to give my money to a private garage that specializes in Hondas if they are willing to do the work.

 

I purchased a 2015 Fit a few months ago. I have verified that the VTA rattles on cold startup. Being a DIY'er all my life, I'm looking into the price of parts and studying the service manual before attempting this repair. Any have any experience doing this? If so, what did you pay for all the parts required?

 

Not a job for any novice mechanic. There are multiple videos on youtube on the replacement. After watching them I'll gladly decided to spend the money to have Honda do it. With a warranty on their work. It really wasn't that expensive for the overall work that was done to the car.

 

how did you know how to get in touch with American Honda, just googled it? I have a 2015 fit at 59k miles and it makes this sound occasionally….

 

Mine happens occasionally.

My Honda Tech Advisor says not to worry about it.

 

422,577 miles as of asking this question. Car has only been dealer serviced, has had the annoying rattle for over 225 K. should I even think about worrying about it ? Car is all original except the alternator that wad replaced at 325K.

 

The VTC actuator problem is caused by a weak spring.

You can replace the spring for $24 if you feel like tearing down half the engine.

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