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Home >> Acura >> 2017 >> ILX >> Repair and Diagnosis (Single Page) >> Engine Performance >> Engine Control Systems >> Engine Control System / Engine Mechanical - Service, Testing And Troubleshooting (Except Hybrid) >> System Description >> VTEC/VTC System Description - Overview(K24Z7/K24V7)
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VTEC/VTC System Description - Overview(K24Z7/K24V7)

The i-VTEC has a VTC (variable valve timing control) mechanism on the intake camshaft in addition to the usual VTEC. This mechanism improves fuel efficiency and reduces exhaust emissions at all levels of engine speed, vehicle speed, and engine load. The VTEC mechanism changes the valve lift and timing by using more than one cam profile. The VTC changes the phase of the intake camshaft via oil pressure. It changes the intake valve timing continuously.

VTEC 

The VTEC system changes the cam profile to correspond to the engine speed. It maximizes torque at low engine speed and output at high engine speed. The low lift cam is used at low engine speeds, and the high lift cam is used at high engine speeds.

GHH468850Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.

VTC 

The VTC system makes continuous intake valve timing changes based on operating conditions. Intake valve timing is optimized to allow the engine to produce maximum power. Cam angle is advanced to obtain the EGR effect and reduce pumping loss. The intake valve is closed quickly to reduce the entry of the air/fuel mixture into the intake port and improve the charging effect. The system reduces the cam advance at idle, stabilizes combustion, and reduces engine speed. If a malfunction occurs, the VTC system control is disabled, and the valve timing is fixed at the fully retarded position.

GHH468851Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.
GHH468852Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.
Driving Condition VTC Control Description
Light-load Base Position Cam angle is retarded to reduce the entry of exhaust gas into the intake port.
Medium/high-load Advance Control To reduce pumping loss, the intake valve is closed quickly to help reduce the entry of air/fuel mixture into the intake port and improve the charging effect.
High speed Advance-Base Position Cam phase angle is controlled for optimum valve timing and maximum engine power.