Problems replacing exhaust actuator solenoid
07-19-2015, 08:55 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Join Date: 02-15-2014
Location: Washington
Posts: 6
Problems replacing exhaust actuator solenoid
My 06 HHR 2.4 started the T/C light with hard shifting and then the CEL light.
Had it scanned and said to replace the intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. Ordered it and on installation noted that engine oil was present (duh - of course). Unfortunately, I received the exhaust valve so I removed the exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. When I removed the exhaust it had what appeared to be tranny fluid, not engine oil. Looks like RED tranny oil and smells like it too. I am surprised to find this. Anyone have a clue about this?
Had it scanned and said to replace the intake Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. Ordered it and on installation noted that engine oil was present (duh - of course). Unfortunately, I received the exhaust valve so I removed the exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve. When I removed the exhaust it had what appeared to be tranny fluid, not engine oil. Looks like RED tranny oil and smells like it too. I am surprised to find this. Anyone have a clue about this?
07-20-2015, 05:06 AM
#3
Platinum Member
Join Date: 12-06-2009
Location: Alabama
Posts: 11,111
X2 on whoppers post above.
You should pull the oil dipstick and see what's in the crankcase.
Any chance your last oil change was at one of those quick lube joints ? They could have replaced the engine oil with the wrong fluid.
Hope not, but mistakes do happen.
You should pull the oil dipstick and see what's in the crankcase.
Any chance your last oil change was at one of those quick lube joints ? They could have replaced the engine oil with the wrong fluid.
Hope not, but mistakes do happen.
07-20-2015, 09:30 AM
#5
Senior Member
Join Date: 09-16-2013
Location: Tampa, Florida
Posts: 1,408
I agree with this . I replaced both solenoids in Summer '14 due to the classic T/C light and hard shifting and when I changed them there was minimal oil on them and definitely motor oil NOT red mystery fluid. I would drain that engine pronto and refill with regular oil.
07-20-2015, 09:41 AM
#6
Thread Starter
Join Date: 02-15-2014
Location: Washington
Posts: 6
Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Replacement
Nope, I do not use Quick Change Oil Pits. I changed the oil and filter 553 miles ago and used Valvoline 5-20 conventional engine oil. I checked the crankcase and the oil there also has is RED but not quite the heavy red tent as that at the solenoid. The Valvoline is almost clear amber in the jug so, now I am really confused. One way or the other I will do another filter and oil change before I put it back on the road.The really confusing thing is Amber in the intake and red in the exhaust, out of the same gallery. Yes, I agree that it is not possible but is true.
07-20-2015, 09:54 AM
#7
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Join Date: 09-16-2013
Location: Tampa, Florida
Posts: 1,408
Nope, I do not use Quick Change Oil Pits. I changed the oil and filter 553 miles ago and used Valvoline 5-20 conventional engine oil. I checked the crankcase and the oil there also has is RED but not quite the heavy red tent as that at the solenoid. The Valvoline is almost clear amber in the jug so, now I am really confused. One way or the other I will do another filter and oil change before I put it back on the road.The really confusing thing is Amber in the intake and red in the exhaust, out of the same gallery. Yes, I agree that it is not possible but is true.
07-20-2015, 01:57 PM
#8
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Join Date: 01-23-2009
Location: Fredericksburg,VA
Posts: 24,740
Looking at the oil display in a store, I notice Valvoline oil jars look just like Valvoline ATF jars. (MaxLife branded anyway, only diff is ATF where 5w30 is).
Just saying misteaks happen.
Just saying misteaks happen.
Last edited by donbrew; 07-20-2015 at 06:11 PM.
07-20-2015, 05:18 PM
#9
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Join Date: 09-16-2013
Location: Tampa, Florida
Posts: 1,408
