I put in a new vvt solenoid a few days ago and the check engine light came back on. I was getting a p0013 code and a p0014 code. I was getting a code for the maf air flow sensor that I found was unplugged. I plugged that back in and that code went away. What could have made the P0011 CODE pop up if I replaced the solenoid?

 

P0013 and P0014 are the exhaust VVT solenoid valve. P0011 is the intake VVT solenoid valve.

 

For my convenience, to keep ‘em straight,

P0011 = Intake Camshaft Position System Performance
P0013 = Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Control Circuit
P0014 = Exhaust Camshaft Position System Performance

The sequence of events is not entirely clear in your OP.

Which solenoid valve did you replace? Safe to say the exhaust? Was there any sign of sludge or debris on the screen? What do you know about the oil change history on this engine?

With P0011 or P0014 I like to replace both solenoid valves. If it’s only a problem with the solenoid section of a solenoid valve assembly, P0010/13, replacing both is pointless, as solenoids don’t have a predictable life. Also, the wiring and connectors should be inspected first.

If you have a P0011, you probably just need to replace the intake solenoid valve.

The problem with the MAF sensor is of course a red herring and has nothing to do with the VVT system.

 

Which vvt did you change?

 

I replaced both. The codes cleared.

 

I replaced both solenoids. They did have sludge on the screens. I was wondering if theses can be cleaned and reinstalled.
?

 

I’ve tried that and still had to replace them . Changing the oil and filter every 3,000 miles has made a difference.

 

To help get sludge out of your engine…,I put 4 quarts of 10w-40 plain cheaper oil and 1 quart transmission fluid when I changed oil. I ran the engine till it got warm and shut it off….several times over about a month, then drained it all out before I replaced all timing chain stuff. And then put dexos 5w-30 synthetic as should be. If your daily driving it….I wouldnt put lot of miles on it with that in it. Transmission fluid has a lot of detergent in it that will clean lot of it out of there.