Honda variable cylinder management problems. He has taken care of our Hondas and those of our friends.

Honda variable cylinder management problems. 5 V6 , the J35Y. Honda VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) - Everything you need to know. Apr 30, 2024 · Honda engines have a legendary reputation across the globe for their performance and reliability. From what I’ve heard Honda’s VCM doesn’t have any long standing problems, it’s just that it’s not really effective in saving a meaningful amount of fuel. Jun 1, 2025 · Honda cylinder deactivation, officially called Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), is a fuel-saving technology that temporarily shuts down some engine cylinders when full power isn’t needed. I know they clog up and The J35Z came with Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology, which is intended to increase efficiency by shutting down three of the six cylinders at low engine loads. This 3. Apr 6, 2025 · Among these, Honda has carved a niche for itself with its innovative approach to engine technology. This issue is typically caused by problems within the VCM system, such as a faulty oil pressure switch, inadequate engine oil, or electrical issues. Jan 26, 2023 · Honda can do all they want to try to minimize the effects of VCM, whether it's only run deactivated cylinders for a certain amount of time, tune it to activate less, whatever. Mar 11, 2025 · Explore common Honda engine management system problems, their symptoms, and consequences for optimal vehicle performance. The VCM Eliminator can improve engine performance, engine vibration, possible motor mount failure and excessive oil consumption. Honda calls their system and probably Honda, like in the domestic lineup, the most aggressive automobile manufacturer General Motors, especially in two thousand nineteen with their dynamic fuel Aug 12, 2024 · The oil consumption in the yester years voice with the honda Odyssey seems more less resolved. Please post your success stories and reasons why here. 8. Jun 1, 2025 · Having trouble with your S-VCM controller? You're not the first Honda owner to face these issues. Those V6 engines are perfection except for the VCM. When cruising on the highway or under light acceleration, VCM shuts down 2-3 cylinders to save fuel and reduce emissions. 11K miles. Without it, they'd be hit by penalties that would add up quickly given the large amount of vehicles that they sell. Feb 17, 2021 · VCM causes various problems in different Honda vehicles. 5 V6 Engine Problems A few of the most common issues with the Honda J35 engine include: Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) Timing belt Carbon build-up We’ll discuss these problems in-depth in the rest of this article. Does this model have VCM? I cannot find any reference to it in the owners manual. Read on to find out all symptoms and ways to solve the issues. Thanks in advance. However, the downsides would be vibration, intake/exhaust flow management, and who knows what else. I will not discuss rationale or methodology used to arrive at the decision to disable the VCM system. However, some drivers find that VCM can cause a rough idle, hesitation, and a less engaging driving experience. If I leave the ground wire, on the aftermarket device, disconnectedI'm using all 6 cylinders all of the time and I lose 3 - 4 MPG on long 600 mile Interstate trips. Apr 12, 2025 · I keep seeing on most video reviews claiming the PP has Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) and claim its bad. S. Aug 4, 2024 · Which cylinders does Honda VCM deactivate? Intro to Variable Cylinder Management Technology The 2005-2007 Honda 3. Aug 14, 2024 · The Honda Odyssey is a top choice for families, praised for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and overall reliability. 5 VCM problems, including causes, owner feedback, and recall information to stay informed about your vehicle. He is an experienced, certified, Honda mechanic who opened his own shop a few years ago. No codes at all. They're using VCM because it gets them CAFE credits from the EPA if they can maximize MPG on their vehicles. Mar 31, 2016 · VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) is a feature on Honda and Acura vehicles whereby cylinders are deactivated during light load cruising conditions to increase fuel economy numbers. yet on their 2022 Passport Trailsports? Would love to hear tips and/or experiences you had installling and tuning it after. Please also post your experiences of how VCM disabling adversely affected your V6 Honda. The system has been implemented in various V6 engines since 2005, but certain models and years face more issues than others: Apr 15, 2025 · Explore common Honda VCM engine problems, their symptoms, and potential consequences for vehicle performance and reliability. You may know of the infamous Active Fuel Management (AFM) system found on GM engines, and this is basically the same thing. In 2005 for the Odyssey, only the EX-L and Touring trims came with VCM engines. 5-liter V6 powerplant. purchasers and lessees of 2008-12 Accord, 2008-13 Odyssey, 2009-13 Pilot, 2010-11 Accord Crosstour and 2012 Crosstour vehicles equipped with six-cylinder engines that have variable cylinder management. How bad is it now on newer Hondas? Overall, It sounds like a good idea but in reality it appears it's a stupid design that Honda need to drop as it only saves a minimal amount of fuel. Jun 24, 2025 · Thinking about disabling the Variable Cylinder Management system on your Honda Pilot? You’re not wrong to consider it. The second version of VCM (VCM-2) took this a step further, allowing the engine to go from 6 cylinders, down to 4, and further down to 3 as the computer sees 21 votes, 29 comments. Oct 24, 2013 · Variable Cylinder Management is Honda’s proprietary variable displacement technology that disables engine cylinders under certain driving conditions to save fuel and reduce vehicle emissions. This engine was designed to enhance fuel efficiency by allowing the engine to operate on fewer cylinders Aug 29, 2022 · What's going on here? 7: If VCM is so bad, why does Honda still use it? Will Honda help me with my VCM related problems? 8: Okay. What Is VCM and Why Does It Cause Problems? Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management technology was designed with good intentions—to improve fuel economy by shutting down cylinders when you don’t need full engine power. Thx. Light on the gas pedal, it turns your V6 into a V3. Tell me Oct 5, 2022 · There's no doubt that Honda's are some of the most fuel efficient vehicles on the road. As Dec 6, 2022 · Has there been any problems with the cylinder deactivation system. This feature is known as “cylinder deactivation management” and is implemented in the vehicle to improve fuel efficiency and achieve better EPA numbers. After 3 years of use I saw ECO activating randomly and it turns out the SVCM was having problems. I think all end up with the problem sooner or later. Driveability Corner To continue the discussion on Honda’s variable cylinder management (VCM) system, let’s set a baseline for air and fuel delivery. He said he know how to fix the issue was caused by the Variable Cylinder Management system. I test drove a 2015 and 2018 Toyota Sienna recently and noticed ECO mode light, which I'm guessing has a similar function to the Odyssey. It uses a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, allowing it to run as a 3, 4 or 6 cylinder, based on load. Feb 21, 2005 · My husband and I spoke to our Honda mechanic today. It is a variable displacement system where a specific number of cylinders can be cut off when necessary. When conditions are optimal for light engine load, the VCM system has the capability to deactivate a subset of the engine’s cylinders, effectively transforming a V6 engine, for example, into a fuel-sipping four or even three-cylinder powerplant. trueI got an S-VCM for my 2011 and it was very easy to install. Aug 27, 2022 · I have a 2021 RTL-E with no discernable problems. One notable fuel-saving innovation is Variable Cylinder Management, or VCM. Apr 15, 2025 · Honda V6 VCM Engine Overview Honda has long been recognized for its engineering prowess and commitment to innovation in the automotive industry. While VCM is designed to improve fuel efficiency, it can sometimes lead to performance issues that leave you frustrated. 5-liter V6 with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) equipped vehicles. What is Honda VCM engine problems? When VCM disengages, the engine then misfires if needing to clear the cylinder of oil. I have not noticed any change in engine operation so far. May 24, 2025 · If you own a Honda Pilot, you might’ve noticed the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system kicking in during your drives. While this may work for some, for others it could mean an engine rebuild. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I’ve never liked the idea of cylinders shutting down on anything. The problem is that like any electromechanical system, the more you turn it on and off, the more likely it's Jul 7, 2014 · Our brother-in-law has a 2022 Honda Ridgeline. The 2005-2007 Honda 3. Mar 31, 2016 · VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) is a feature on Honda and Acura vehicles whereby cylinders are deactivated during light load cruising conditions in order to increase fuel economy numbers. While Honda designed VCM to improve fuel economy, many owners have encountered problems ranging from excessive oil consumption to engine misfires. There are four different versions of Honda's cylinder deactivation system (VCM). I don't want to feel the clunking and think that something is wrong with my transmission, when the Honda Variable Cylinder Management System is doing its thing. For example, driving up a hill requires more work from all 6 cylinders. If you search the forum, you'll find many discussions and opinions on it. 5L V6 is a VCM-1 engine and only does cylinder deactivation on cylinders 1-3 instead of 1-4 like the VCM-2 engine. So, what is VCM on a Honda? VCM stands for Variable Cylinder Management. It shuts off some cylinders in the V6 in situations where the full power of all cylinders is not needed in order to save fuel. By installing the s-vcm controller, you can prevent vcm from engaging and improve the overall performance of your honda odyssey. Mar 23, 2022 · Some folks have the VCMTUNER/VCMTUNER II installed on their engine to negate Honda's cylinder deactivation technology. So the second generation has been around for over 5 years now, has there been any proof what so ever that there is a need to disable it? My 2017 had Sep 24, 2020 · Honda and Acura designed their engines with a feature called VCM which stands for Variable Cylinder Management. Aug 25, 2025 · What Is Variable Cylinder Management in the Honda Odyssey? Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management is an engine technology that selectively deactivates cylinders when full power isn’t needed. 5L V6 engine was equipped with Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) - 3-cylinder override system, which saves fuel by using the VTEC system to disable one cylinder bank. Understanding whether your Honda is equipped with VCM is crucial for optimizing its performance and maintenance. In my Odyssey, you Apr 25, 2025 · VCM stands for Variable Cylinder Management. 5 but now with a 10-speed automatic. VCM is Variable Cylinder Management. Can you turn off a Honda VCM? Position 40,50,60 (Disable VCM) is tunable between different climates. Apr 24, 2023 · Today, we’ll tell you more about the 3. Mar 19, 2014 · This has come up in a couple forum threads regarding Honda vehicles with the V-6 engine, since Honda starting using the VCM (variable cylinder management) technology in these engines. Our 2010 Honda Odyssey EX-L with VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) has had oil consumption and piston ring issues relating to VCM. Their conclusion was this: The van is behaving like it was designed when the VCM engages, going from from 6 cylinders to 3 May 17, 2020 · Besides the clunking that you feel, after you leave Interstate (driving) and travel in City traffic, does the Variable Cylinder Management system over-work some pistons/rings/cylinder walls more than those, which become disabled? Oct 6, 2024 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is Honda 's term for its variable displacement technology, which saves fuel by using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders during specific driving conditions—for example, highway driving. However, we feel its important to add a few quick notes to add some clarity. The VCM Eliminator is a cost effective method that can save you costly engine repairs to your Acura or Honda with select 3. Aug 31, 2014 · The purpose of this thread is to provide a detailed DIY procedure on how to disable the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system on 2008-2010 Honda Odyssey’s equipped with VCM engines. I was looking at buying a 2013 Honda Pilot with 103,000 miles nearly bought but then decided not to after reading into the massive VCM issues and them settling a lawsuit over it. P3497 quick overview It might be from the VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) which is a complicated system to save a little gas. The cylinder deactivation system in the Ridgeline is designed to shut down one bank of cylinders when the engine is under light load. I decided to install it after seeing the cost of active mounts $$$$$$. I had a 2009 Pilot and that engine failed around 120K it was bought new and maintained meticulously. Aug 17, 2023 · To disable vcm on the honda odyssey, you can use the s-vcm controller. 5-10 minute installation. But what's their secret? John opens our brand new weekly segment, Q&A Wednesday, with answers to that very Jul 31, 2024 · Variable Cylinder Management. The 2022 Honda Ridgeline is powered by a 3. Aug 20, 2025 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is a technology used by Honda to improve fuel efficiency by dynamically switching between different numbers of active cylinders. At least Honda doesn’t seem to have mechanical failures (lifters) that can still arise even if VCM is disabled. This technology, known as Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), allows the engine to operate on a reduced number of cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency. Before I upgrade, I'm wondering what common issues I can expect in the fourth generation Nov 3, 2017 · I've had my Odyssey for about 4 years now, with it's J35 that's being phased out with the 2. Among its notable achievements is the development of the V6 Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) engine, which was introduced in the early 2000s. At a given load and rpm, an engine needs X amount of fuel and air to sustain that load. The i-VTEC system combines with Active Control engine Mounts (ACM) to allow the VCM system to operate with just three cylinders in a wide range of situations to maximize fuel efficiency and lower May 17, 2021 · Common Honda 3. Apr 25, 2024 · Which cylinders does Honda VCM deactivate? Intro to Variable Cylinder Management Technology The 2005-2007 Honda 3. Jun 27, 2018 · VCM Operation To help improve the fuel efficiency of the Ridgeline engine, a new variation of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is used. According to Honda, VCM is a fuel-saving feature available on some Honda vehicles. However, a frequent query among Odyssey owners and prospective buyers revolves around a specific technology: Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). Honda’s VCT is designed to shut off one bank (side) of the engine, effectively turning a V6 into an I3. While these devices are designed to disable your vehicle's Variable Cylinder Management system, they can sometimes cause unexpected headaches. Enough background. By deactivating the variable cylinder management system, you can prevent potential problems and achieve a more consistent and smoother driving experience. 5L V6. Honda did the VCM to meet regulations on gas usage and anticipated that most buyers don’t keep their cars for the long haul so what does it matter (planned obsolescence). Nov 23, 2023 · VCT Related Issues The main issue with the Honda J engines comes from the variable cylinder management (VCT) system. Does the 2025 Honda Pilot have cylinder deactivation? Yes, the 2025 Honda Pilot is equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). 0t, but it's seen across several different vehicles (or the Accord). Aug 1, 2018 · A Clever Variable Cylinder Management Fix As quiet as the drive may be, this technology has turned into big headache for both the manufacturer and the vehicle owner. This solution allows you to bypass the vcm system without any permanent modifications to your Apr 15, 2024 · Yes, the Honda Ridgeline does have cylinder deactivation. I believe it still runs the venerable DOHC 3. I think this is where the VCM hate comes from. Most common problems for current gen Pilots are slipping torque convertor and broken engine mounts. 5 i-VTEC VCM Engine: Common Problems Explained Published by Engineer on 12/02/2025 Honda 3. Oct 23, 2013 · The settlement concerns all U. Apart from the Honda Pilot, the VCM technology is found in Honda Odyssey and a few other models as well. Honda Variable Cylinder Management Problems Excessive oil consumption is a common issue in the 2008 accord. The J35Z1 replaced the J35A9. Those Mar 29, 2024 · Honda vehicles are equipped with a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) that helps improve fuel economy. A new two-wheel-drive model received Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®), Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC), Honda's Active Control Engine Mount (ACM) system and the new i-VTEC® valvetrain system. Jul 17, 2019 · This question may have been asked, but I just joined and couldn't find it. Sep 9, 2019 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is Honda 's term for its variable displacement technology, which saves fuel by using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders during specific driving conditions—for example, highway driving. Everyone in the van agreed there is a noticable hesitation/surge when the VCM engages, with spedometer and RPM gauges both surging up about 5 points. Apr 25, 2025 · How To Disable VCM On Honda Odyssey Disabling Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) on a Honda Odyssey can help prevent engine problems. The VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system, commonly found in Honda and Acura V6 Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is Honda 's term for its variable displacement technology, which saves fuel by using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinder s during specific driving conditions—for example, highway driving. Jul 16, 2022 · Honda Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) problems and solutions are described in the article. Works on Honda Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, Accord & Acura RDX/TLX. This system is known to have the potential for misfires, high oil consumption fouling the plugs, repeated failure of the motor mounts and damage to the torque converter. Sep 21, 2023 · Over the course of one evening of research I come to find out this engine (J35Y8 I guess) has (1) Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), generically known as cylinder deactivation, (2) Idle Stop, often referred to generically as a stop-and-go feature and (3) a timing belt instead of chain. Jun 1, 2025 · VCM problems aren’t universal across all Honda vehicles. How do I disable it? 9: How do these disable devices work? 10: Are there differences between the disable devices? 11: Which VCM disable device should I Jun 5, 2025 · Keep reading to discover what causes these problems and, more importantly, what you can do about them right now. However, some owners have encountered an issue known as Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which can lead to unwanted vibrations and noise. I've heard a lot about premature engine problems due to the VCM (Honda's variable-displacement system that shuts down one bank of cylinders Honda's vehicles with V6 engines equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) are able to deactivate engine cylinders to improve fuel economy. Mar 9, 2022 · 2. I am fairly certain it is something electrical because if the car hasn’t been driven for awhile it will go 3-4 miles just fine before it gets kicked into vcm mode. The system works by shutting down one bank of cylinders (usually three out of six) during light-load conditions like highway cruising. This system is designed to switch between six and three cylinders based on driving conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency. Basically, it is a system on Honda/Acura products that deactivates banks of cylinder in order to save on fuel. It is a technology introduced in 2005 that is present in many Honda V6 engines. Aug 25, 2025 · What Is Honda VCM and Why Does It Exist? Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management is a fuel-saving technology introduced in 2005 for their 3. That’s what Acura’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) does for you, and much faster than you could do it on your own. 5 i-VTEC VCM engine, including symptoms, causes, and potential consequences. I like There is one more version based on J35A6 - it is a J35A7 engine. Feb 12, 2025 · Honda 3. Accord vehicles with four-cylinder engines are excluded from the settlement. The J35Z series was used in 2006-2014 Honda and Acura models. VCM is designed to enhance fuel efficiency by deactivating some of the engine’s cylinders during light-load conditions. It's been misfiring off and on for the last 2 years saying cylinders 1 through 3 have are misfiring as well as a random misfire. - YouTube My 2016 was giving me problems and I was having to replace the number 2 spark plug often. That’s what Variable Cylinder Management is for. He has taken care of our Hondas and those of our friends. Apr 8, 2023 · VCM stands for Variable Cylinder Management which is a technology developed by Honda to increase fuel economy. What is Variable Cylinder Management? If you could turn off a few cylinders to save on fuel, that would come in handy at times. Symptoms: car is missing really bad until around 3300 RPM (VTec kick in) and then runs like a champ. Those engines can go 500k without the VCM mucking them up (with proper standard maintenance). Feb 12, 2025 · Explore common problems with the Honda 3. When VCM is active, 3-cylinders are running which causes engine vibrations. May 17, 2016 · Such a variable cylinder size design would give a much larger number of cylinder deactivation choices than the present 2 or 3. The majority of J35Y engines also incorporate direct fuel injection, enhancing performance, reducing emissions, and improving fuel efficiency. Jun 25, 2025 · Variable cylinder management (VCM) Jump to Latest 818 views 12 replies 9 participants last post by BeshmoHandes Jun 26, 2025 S May 18, 2024 · The Honda Pilot, a renowned SUV, has earned its reputation for providing a comfortable and capable driving experience. 5L V6 engine in the new Honda Pilot and will also outline its main advantages and drawbacks to take into consideration. Mar 7, 2022 · I have a 2010 Honda Odyssey EXL RES. Jul 12, 2022 · For members who like VCM and have never had a single issue caused by VCM, and want to keep it working. Honda Lawsuit Intro to Variable Cylinder Management Technology The 2005-2007 Honda 3. It's Honda's version of cylinder deactivation technology, which several manufacturers have/had, and while the tech may be better now, it was not without growing pains. The 2012 Honda Pilot we’re discussing is at 70 mph and 2000 rpm. Apr 11, 2025 · Honda’s VCM system is designed to save fuel. Apr 17, 2019 · Has the activation of Variable Cylinder Management been noticeable to you? 2022 Passport Elite AWD | Radiant Red Metallic / Black Interior - (finally Honda offers a bright red color!) 2019 Passport Touring AWD | Crystal Black Pearl / Black Interior - (traded-in for 2022 Elite) Jun 25, 2022 · Here's a look at old and new Honda V6 engine options and the most common problems with the brand's 3. Sep 10, 2024 · While the Honda Ridgeline is equipped with several fuel-saving technologies, such as an intelligent variable-cylinder system (i-VTEC) and an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT), it does not offer cylinder deactivation. Feb 24, 2022 · The check engine light reads variable cylinder management system stuck on. 5-liter, aluminum-alloy, single-overhead camshaft, 24-valve i-VTEC engine featuring VCM, which allows the engine to deactivate one bank of cylinders depending upon the torque requirements to maintain cruising speed Fits all vehicles using the Honda V6 cylinder 3. During VCM, the valves to deactivated cylinders are disabled, along with the spark and fuel Aug 29, 2023 · Overview of V6 In 2013, Honda introduced the latest version of its 3. Nov 5, 2014 · Several V6 engines in the Honda lineup come with a tech called Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). 5L SOHC engine with variable cylinder management Honda and Acura trucks, minivans and cars of new and older years models: Honda Odyssey, 2005 and later Honda Pilot, 2006 and later Honda Ridgeline, 2017 and later (fits G2+ Ridgelines with staged charging regulation) Honda Accord Crosstour, 2010 and Feb 11, 2023 · Is there any way to conclusively determine if my specific vehicle has this feature? If it is a 2021 Honda Ridgeline, it has cylinder deactivation. Sep 14, 2024 · 80k to 120k is typically where the VCM problems show up. The system can be easily defeated by installing a device that tells the engine computer that the coolant temp is too low to activate VCM (the system only turns on when the car is warmed up). LX and EX were non-VCM. The company replaced it free of charge after discarding it was not deactivated by engine overheating. Complicated systems usually decreases reliability. The VCM system in the Odyssey is designed to deactivate 1/3 or 1/2 of the cylinders, depending on driving conditions, to save fuel and lower emissions. Apr 23, 2024 · How Honda Odyssey Cylinder Deactivation Works The Honda Odyssey’s cylinder deactivation, also known as Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), is a fuel-saving technology that automatically deactivates a portion of the engine’s cylinders based on driving conditions. It was because of the VCM so I bought a bypass switch off eBay for $15. However, it seems that the activation of the Does Honda have the same problems with their variable cylinder management system as GMs active fuel management? Apr 13, 2024 · Does the Honda Ridgeline have VCM? Yes, the Honda Ridgeline is equipped with Honda’s advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. It's a very nice truck. However, one of its standout features, the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), has raised some concerns Jun 26, 2021 · Coming from another forum? This one right here is the original! What is VCM? VCM stands for Variable Cylinder Management. This What is VCM? Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is Honda's term for its variable displacement technology, which saves fuel by using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders during specific driving conditions—for example, highway driving. Mar 22, 2015 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is a technology introduced by Honda on its V6 engines to improve EPA fuel efficiency numbers. In this video, I would show you which version is in which Honda-Acura model Disable VCM/ECO on your 2005-2017 Honda 3. Aug 25, 2023 · 2023-2024 Pilot are there still VCM issues? What common issues are people experiencing? I have an older Pilot with the Subframe rust issue (Honda TSB 21-019) and an older Odyssey with the VCM issue. 5 L V6 engine was equipped with Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) – 3-cylinder bypass system, which saves fuel by using the VTEC system to disable one cylinder bank. I had never heard of it until just a couple of days ago, so would welcome any insight into this. Of course that was after spending several hundred dollars to have stupid mechanic replace all of the coils and plugs and hundreds more to have Hondato a diagnostics test to tell me that the engine was shot. Sep 23, 2021 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) developed by Honda to make their V6 engines more efficient by cutting fuel to 3-cylinders under certain conditions like coasting (under 70 mph?) and possibly braking. Apr 25, 2025 · Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is an advanced technology used by Honda to enhance fuel efficiency without compromising engine performance. May 4, 2024 · The decision to disable the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system in Honda vehicles is a matter of personal preference and depends on individual experiences and priorities. Jul 31, 2021 · Will Honda help me with my VCM related problems? Honda would not spend the time and money to develop VCM unnecessarily. This guide covers everything you need to know about VCM disable methods, the pros and cons, and how to choose the right solution Oct 28, 2020 · What is Honda Variable Cylinder Management? What is Honda Variable Cylinder Management? Get answers to this question and learn more about Honda's class-leading performance values at Allan Nott Honda. Recently I replaced the Sep 11, 2024 · The Honda Pilot, known for its spacious cabin and fuel-efficient V6 engine, has a feature called Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) that aims to improve fuel economy. Sep 22, 2014 · 2006 Hona Odyessey touring V6 with the variable Cylinder management system. Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is Honda 's term for its variable displacement technology, which saves fuel by deactivating the rear bank of 3 cylinders during specific driving conditions—for example, highway driving. Dec 7, 2006 · The problem, as stated in the letter, reads: "On certain Honda vehicles equipped with V6 engines with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM-2) , the cycling of the cylinders under certain drive conditions allows for spark plug cooling, which may result in carbon fouling of the spark plugs. Heavy on the pedal, and it fires up those additional three cylinders for more power. Mar 21, 2025 · Explore Honda 3. In would only be concerned with VCM for the Honda's pilots/ ridgelines with the 6 speed auto The torque converter + transmission isn't as robust in the VCM transition leading to accelerated fluid deterioration which will cause problems later on. Aug 9, 2023 · P3400 Honda Odyssey: This code indicates that there is an issue with the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which is responsible Jan 14, 2023 · the engine is equipped with the VCM system (Variable Cylinder Management) and it can turn cylinders on and off when needed for the sake of fuel economy; the only possible transmission that comes with this engine in the Honda Passport is the 9-speed automatic transmission made by ZF company (9HP); Apr 3, 2025 · The Honda Odyssey, a stalwart of the minivan segment, is renowned for its reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The muzzles work. We asked him about the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)and what he There is one more version based on J35A6 – it is a J35A7 engine. One particular system, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), has been a subject of much discussion, especially regarding its presence in Honda’s pickup truck, the Ridgeline. Mar 27, 2025 · Understanding VCM Issues in Your Honda Accord If you own a Honda Accord equipped with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), you might have heard whispers about potential problems lurking beneath the hood. Apr 25, 2020 · Honda Lawsuit Intro to Variable Cylinder Management Technology The 2005-2007 Honda 3. Fuel mileage could be an issue with Honda engines, but Honda fights the problem with its proprietary VCM technology. It involves using the PCM to shut down cylinders at cruising conditions. Jul 4, 2024 · Honda V-6 and Cylinder Deactivation Yes, Honda V-6 engines have a cylinder deactivation feature. Jan 10, 2011 · VCM is mostly availible on Hondas with the J35Z engine. Mar 12, 2021 · The variable cylinder management (VCM) shuts down and reactivates cylinders inside the engine as needed. In this video, we walk you through the step-by-step process of installing a VCM Muzzler on a Honda V6 engine. Jul 24, 2024 · VCM is "Variable Cylinder Management" where the system will shut down 3-4 cylinders to lower MPG under certain driving conditions. It is put on all their cars as a means to save gas by using the i-VTEC system to disable one bank of cylinders during specific driving conditions such as highway driving. In this video, we tear down a Honda J-series V6 engine with variable cylinder management (VCM) technology to see how the engine is able to turn off those cylinders and stop the intake and exhaust Honda V6 Engine with VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) shown in the 2010 Odyssey Ex-L Honda V6 (J35A7) burns oil, at least 1 quart every 1500 miles VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) is the May 28, 2024 · Honda still uses the VCM system as you all know. I do know that the radios in vehicles with VCM will pump in white noise to try to drown out the strange Feb 28, 2015 · Any Honda VCM disabling knowledgeable people here? Likely buying a new Honda w/ v6 and VCM. 5L V6 engines. Here’s how we can do it: Tools Needed VCM Disabler/Muzzler Basic Tool Kit Instructions Manual Step-by-Step Guide Locate the OBD-II Port It’s usually on the driver’s side, under the dashboard. The 2009-2015 Pilot had a J35Z4 VCM engine, and the 2011-2017 Odyssey had J35Z8, and I know from experience that VCM screws up both of those engines. 5 i-VTEC VCM Engine Overview History and Development The Honda 3. Justification for this install includes wanting access to the full 6 cylinders at all time, elimination of engine hesitancy and prevention of damage to engine mounts. He said he was familiar with such issues on Ridgeline and Pilots. Started unplugging all the coil packs one at a time and found van pretty much starts really rough Jul 8, 2025 · Honda has been making highly innovative and reliable powertrains for decades. . Mar 19, 2023 · Anyone installed the VCMTUNER - Disable VCM / ECO for Honda Odyssey, Pilot, Accord & More. With this system, drivers are treated to optimum performance on all six cylinders while accelerating. The only 4 cylinder that has it is the one in the newer hybrid Civics. 5L V6 shows misfire and oil consumption issues at higher mileages in most cases because Apr 30, 2024 · Yes, the Honda Odyssey does have Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The technology improves fuel efficiency by deactivating one-third or half of the cylinders based on your driving conditions. But now I see the Pilot also comes with ACM (active control engine mounts), VTM4 (variable torque management), a 10-speed automatic transmission (not 6 speed like mine), and other unnecessary (IMHO) electronic features: ECO Assist, ANC, Idle Stop/Start, & remote engine start. Because the engine runs "rough" when it is not in balance, there are specialized motor mounts to dampen vibration that can cost 1500 to replace. It is a device that effectively disables the variable cylinder management system in your vehicle. Nov 30, 2021 · Everytime new Ridgeline owners come around and start talking about modifications, sooner or later someone brings up disabling the 'Dreaded' VCM. If you Nov 4, 2023 · The code P3497: “VPS Stuck Off Bank 2” indicates a malfunction in the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, specifically related to the deactivation of cylinders on the second bank of the engine. When in cruise between 30 and 70 mph, the vehicle will shift to three- or four-cylinder mode to save fuel, while still delivering premium Dec 29, 2023 · Common Honda J35 engine problems include problems with the VCM, camshaft wear, timing belt tensioner failure, and carbon buildup. After reading this, I don't want VCM enabled on my vehicle. 5 i-VTEC VCM engine, known for its innovative Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology, has been a significant player in Honda’s lineup since its introduction in the early 2000s. I'm hoping the Dec 8, 2008 · VCM problems-dealers findings Yesterday my husband drove with the service mgr and the Honda district representative. When the VCM kicks on and the engine switches between 4 and 6 cylinders, the electronic engine mounts have to compensate, but some issue during the switch causes added vibration. Jul 19, 2016 · VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) is a feature on Honda and Acura vehicles whereby cylinders are deactivated during light load cruising conditions in order to increase fuel economy numbers. In this guide, we will explore the steps and methods for disabling VCM on your Honda Odyssey, allowing you to make an informed decision about enhancing your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Trade it in for a toyota. It allows Sep 7, 2018 · However, looking back old posts on the Internet, there were many complaints about Honda V6 engine VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) function and a lawsuit about it. Here’s how it works: VCM Technology: – VCM automatically deactivates 1/3 or 1/2 of the cylinders, depending on driving Nov 9, 2015 · Have owners of the 2013 and newer V6 EX-L sedans seen better results from the new Variable Cylinder Management system in the Earth Dreams engine? I was looking at 2012s but decided against one because of the oil burn, fouled plugs and ring replacement issues on the gen. Usually I have to replace the spark plugs sometimes a coil pack and it works for like another 6 months. I’m just thinking long term problems with this. This engine, except for the manual transmission variant in the Honda Accord, comes with Variable Cylinder Management. dfltb aesveni qkcu umnh vuqkeb jxm etkk enuq idhp qrl