thanks for this. I’m going to take the car to Midas later for an estimate. I’m a disabled veteran with shaky hands so I don’t think this is something I could easily do.

 

If you can replace the air filter you can replace the VVT valves. Just 2 more bolts.
Save an hour labor flat rate is .6 hour for both. .5 hours each. My experience with Midas is they will charge 2.6 hours because they will look at the wrong part. And 100% markup on the parts from the most expensive vendor. The most the valves should cost about $50 each from a GM dealer.

There are:
Variable Timing Control Actuators (on the cam shafts) 2.6 hours
Variable Valve Timing Solenoids (under the air box) ( VVT valves) 0.6 hours

 

thanks. You have any recommendations for specific vavlves?

 

Some people swear by Genuine GM valves. I shop for cheapest starting at $23 for both on ebay.

 

The hardest part is getting the electrical connector disconnected. There are some helpful suggestions in the thread I linked to.

 

You will need a 3/8 drive 10 mm socket , a 6” extension and ratchet. Use a pair of pliers to twist and get the solenoids out. The are colour specific for intake and exhaust.
I recommend GM parts

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...actuator,12910

 

Changing the VVT solenoid valves is easier than changing the spark plugs.

I've heard too many stories of generics for this application failing instantly to use anything but AC Delco. They're not that expensive.

I'd invite you to go back a re-read my post 14 above, and reiterate that there's no guaranty that this is the problem, but it definately is a very good bet.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/prob...e2/#post941658

BTW, would love to see a pic of the old solenoid valves.

 

so I took the car into Jiffy Lube this morning and they Scanned the car and got the codes for the VVT solenoids. They replaced them. Car ran great from the shop to my office about 20 minutes away. Then on the way home it stated doing the rough idling again, although not as bad as before. I am not currently getting any codes. Is it possible that they didn’t properly secure the solenoids when they replaced them today?

 

Or they forgot to reconnect the MAF sensor. Take it back to them it’s their problem.

 

Or it's a different problem. Like maybe the AC compressor or the tensioner is dragging the idle speed down.