Carheart

2002 es 300 102k. I got a p1350 code, variable valve timing. I replaced the VVT solenoid and check engine light is still on. Any suggestions? Cam Position sensor?

Oro

100k is VERY early for a solenoid failure. Did you clean the screens on each feed line?

what type of oil changed last when?

Carheart

Changed the cam position sensor and vvt solenoid...lights still on. Changed oil about month and a half ago. Went to mobile full synthetic. I've heard of sludge build up in these 02's. ???

HomerJay

Please confirm- You erased the error code after the repair and it came back on?

Oro

ANY engine will form sludge if you don't change the oil frequently enough. The 02 engine is NOT known for being overly susceptible to that, so unless maintenance was very bad at some point, that should not be an issue.

I would repeat the initial two questions: Did you check and/or clean the feed line screens? What type of oil (weight)?

Carheart

The screens were cleaned out yesterday and weren't very dirty. 5w30 mobile full synthetic. BUT I had gotten the cam position sensor from autozone...no good. Tried one from O'riellys...no bueno. I ordered a genuine lexus oem cam sensor, put it on and the check engine light went off. Factory part did the job so far. I've only driven about 25 miles so I'll keep my fingers crossed. Thanks for all the help. I'll re-post if it comes back on.

Carheart

Thanks Oro

Oro

Glad you got it sorted. So frustrating when a new part fails from the get-go. I was asking my question as very thick or very thin oils can mess with this, but not what you are using by any stretch.

If you are in western WA, and already using M1, consider trying the M1 10w-30 HM. I have had tremendous success w/this oil over the years and miles. Fine for starting down to below 0F, and less additives and more "oil" in it than any 0w or 5w oil.