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MINIs are exciting to drive and have powerful engines, but if not properly maintained, their machinery and electronic systems may suffer damage and deterioration. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system is one MINI component that is particularly susceptible to failure.
Although the VVT in your MINI is probably something you don’t think about very often, it is an important aspect of the engine, and problems with it can have huge implications on your MINI. Let us dive deeper into it.
How the VVT System in your Mini Works
The VVT is a newer technology to automobiles that has been implemented into Mini automobiles. It is found in the car engine and acts to reduce pollutants, allowing you to save money on gas while also improving the efficiency of your MINI. The VVT can raise the maximum engine speed, resulting in increased peak power and improved vehicle handling.
In technical terms, VVT works with the valve lift systems to optimize ignition. They work together to align the valve timing with the engine’s operating conditions. This increases your engine’s efficiency, resulting in a better running system, lower gas emissions, and fuel usage.
Symptoms of Mini Cooper VVT Issues
Engine Light Illumination
This feature is provided in your Mini fundamentally to notify you of danger, defect, or failure of any of your car parts, particularly those related to the engine. The VVT is found in the engine and on the computer board of your vehicle, near the “check engine” light. This indicates that if there is an issue with the VVT, the check engine light will most certainly illuminate.
However, since the “check engine” light is designed to alert you to faults in several places that affect the engine, you may not realize there is a problem with the VVT until it becomes late. As a result, you must seek the assistance of a qualified specialist as soon as possible.
Dirty Oil
When the VVT starts to malfunction, it’s usually due to contaminated engine oil. So, because the VVT works directly with engine oil, having clean, clog-free oil circulating through your engine always should not be overlooked. Debris and other impurities can cause your VVT to malfunction. By changing your oil on a regular basis, you can keep this portion of your car in top condition.
Fluctuations in the Engine
When the VVT begins to fail, you will notice that your gears start to function poorly. The engine will stall and fluctuate as a result, resulting in erratic driving performance. This shift in performance has the potential to become a dangerous distraction and should be addressed with immediate effect.
Reduced Gas Mileage
Because the VVT works alongside gas in the car, any damage to this part will have a significant impact on how your automobile manages fuel. If you observe a significant change in how your car transports fuel, you may have a VVT issue. Having a technician examine your variable valve timing sensor is one method to find out. If this part is damaged, your VVT as a whole will most likely need to be replaced.
How to Deal with VVT Failure
One of the most effective methods of dealing with VVT issues is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be performed by maintaining your MINI on a regular basis. Changing your vehicle’s oil on a constant basis and taking your MINI to routine service checkups are two excellent strategies to maintain your vehicle’s VVT in good working order and minimize any damage to the engine.
When a VVT is already deteriorating, it is recommended that it should be replaced as soon as possible. The best course of action is to hire Mini-trained specialists who will be familiar with the VVT’s location in your vehicle and will know how to access and repair it appropriately without causing damage to your engine or its surrounding components.
Corpus Auto Service Will Help!
If your MINI’s VVT isn’t working properly, you 
should take it to a reputable mechanic. At Corpus Auto Service, we provide quality repairs for Mini’s. In managing MINI engines, we have experienced and capable technicians, expert mechanics, and factory qualified master mechanics.
We have built a reputation for offering dependable and high-quality Mini engine-related repair services in Corpus Christi and the neighboring locations, such as Portland, Rockport, Aransas Pass, and Calallen, TX. Please call us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. We are excited to work with and for you!
* Blue Mini Cooper Car image credit goes to: Luca Piccini Basile.