Honda OEM VTC Oil Control Valve - K20A2/K20A3 Engines
Getting sluggish throttle response, rough idle, or a P2646 code on your RSX or Civic Si? Your VTC oil control valve's probably stuck or worn out. This is the genuine Honda VTC solenoid for K20A2 and K20A3 engines. It regulates oil flow to the camshaft timing gear so your ECU can adjust valve timing based on engine speed and load. When it fails, your cam timing gets sloppy and you'll notice poor acceleration, worse fuel economy, and often a check engine light. Part number 15830-PNC-003.
Why the VTC Solenoid Fails
The VTC solenoid sits in oil all day and uses a small internal screen to filter contaminants before they reach the cam phaser. If you've been running extended oil changes or the engine's got a lot of miles on it, sludge clogs the screen and the solenoid can't regulate oil pressure properly. Once it's clogged or worn, valve timing doesn't respond the way the ECU expects and you get sluggish performance and codes.
Replace It Before It Gets Worse
A failing VTC solenoid usually shows up as a P2646 code (VTC oil pressure switch circuit low voltage) or rough running when the engine's trying to advance cam timing. If you catch it early and replace the solenoid, you're good. If you ignore it, the cam phaser itself can wear out from improper oil pressure, and that's a way more expensive repair.
Fits Your Car
- 2002-2004 Acura RSX Base (K20A3)
- 2002-2004 Acura RSX Type-S (K20A2)
- 2002-2005 Honda Civic Si (K20A3)
- 2002-2004 Honda CR-V (K24A1)
Compatible Engines
- K20A2 (RSX Type-S)
- K20A3 (RSX Base, Civic Si EP3)
- K24A1 (CR-V)
Specifications
- Honda part number: 15830-PNC-003
- Genuine Honda OEM replacement
- VTC oil control valve (VTEC timing solenoid)
- Regulates oil flow to camshaft timing gear
Note: If you're replacing this for a P2646 code, also check your oil level and condition. Low oil or sludgy oil causes VTC solenoid issues even when the solenoid itself is fine. Always use the correct weight oil and keep up with oil changes.
