[HerrXRDS]

I have a 09 Accord V6. It started having this grinding/slipping noise when cold started long time ago, 40.000 maybe 50.000 miles ago. It only lasts for a second or two. Recently, with the cold weather, seems to be getting louder so it got me concerned. I've looked into it and seems to be the VTC Actuator, haven't taken it to the dealership yet for a diagnostic though.
Talked to Honda and they said this is a common problem and there is no need to replace it, the car will run as normal and it won't cause any damage. They said that even if they replace the actuator, there is a high chance for the new one to have the same noise. I do have some third party warranty which will cover the replacement of this part, car is almost 90k now and only has a few days left on the warranty. Should I replace the actuator or can this cause more issue down the line and I'm better off leaving it alone?

 

[daflo]

The VTC Actuator makes a "Rattling" noise for about 2-3 seconds on start-up. Wasn't a real problem with the V6's mainly the I4's...yours could be the starter? Either way, whatever it is, if you have a warrany get it fixed.

 

[slickj35z]

Honda can't do squat about it , because the service bulletin is under review by AHM itself. It's a total failure to be honest. There are returning customers who complain about the same thing even after the supposedly fix.

 

[greg24]

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[HerrXRDS]

After watching a few Youtube videos, the problem might not be the VTC actuator, it sounds a little different. I have an appointment next week, the dealership asked for $100 to diagnose the VTC actuator. I found this video with the exact noise my engine makes, from the comments it seems to be the starter.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thYfMxUAsa8

 

[slickj35z]

After watching a few Youtube videos, the problem might not be the VTC actuator, it sounds a little different. I have an appointment next week, the dealership asked for $100 to diagnose the VTC actuator. I found this video with the exact noise my engine makes, from the comments it seems to be the starter.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thYfMxUAsa8

My V6 does that too. Was wondering what the hell it was.. Now I know.

 

[Edaccord08]

V6 Doesn't have a VTC, you would need double cams for it as it alters cam timing .
Cars that have it have it on intake or both intake and exhaust cam .
SO Honda V6 is single OHC engine and doesn't have cam timing.

Your issue is something else from a VTC actuator.

BTW, on that what happens is the locking pin breaks letting the cam move till actuator fills with oil .