HONDA ERROR CODE P2646 - VTEC 2.4L (EASY FIX AND LESS THAN $5)

Learn how to fix ERROR CODE P2646 on your HONDA with the 2.4L engine.
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Dorman 917-176 Variable Timing Solenoid Gasket
- Amazon: amzn.to/2kh4Fly
- Oreilly’s: bit.ly/2lxhZm1
The engine model number is 2.4L - K24A1 and covers Honda CRVs from 2001 to 2011.
It may also cover the other Honda vehicles with this same engine; See en.wikipedia.o...
Engine: K24A1 | Honda CRV | 2001-2011
I originally posted this video in October 2019. It is now October 2020. My brother bought this car from me a couple months ago, and He has thoroughly enjoyed it. Even though I only replaced the O-ring, instead of the entire assembly, we’ve had no trouble with it.
Disclaimer
Due to factors beyond the control of (myself) JPW, we do not guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of the information shared in this channel. JPW assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video.
Please use this information at your own risk.
JPW recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of JPW, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not JPW.

[@richardd8352]

Id change out the oil when doing this, I did mine today - roll back 3 days prior- i got check engine and code. Removed solenoid - cleaned gasket filter and solenoid with brake cleaner. So i thought today id change the oil and put in a new solenoid gasket. Well after only 3 days the gasket i cleaned was full of crap. So prior to fresh oil, i used engine flush. If your getting a blocked filter on your vtec solenoid its a clear sign to change filter and oil. Absolutely NO point changing gasket without changing oil also. So today i had fresh oil in a flushed engine with a new gasket. Definitely good practice to do this. Also going forward im going to change out oil every 8 thousand miles.

[@paward4]

Thanks for the comments! I've put about 5,000 miles on this CRV since changing the O-ring/screen. I've had no error codes, and no leaks.

[@TheMondomingo]

4 yrs later and this video is still helping. Great camera work my guy!!!

[@peterkleiner9114]

Pro tip: leave that first small bolt on - it only holds the heat shield to the solenoid chassis. Just remove the three lower bolts and then you can easily remove it after you disconnect the wires and remove the whole thing. Really, I think you could just leave the heat shield on for this, though I didn't. Thanks for the video!

[@richardd8352]

Yeah I left heat shield on

[@jimtownsend7899]

I just changed that filter assembly two days ago. Don't bother taking the heat shield off. Just undo the three bolts. I didn't even disconnect the plugs. I swung the spool valve onto the exhaust manifold, cleaned up both mounting surfaces with brake cleaner and a towel, then replaced the filter assembly (gasket with screen) and put it back on. Do not use any sealer of RTB, and do not overtighten! The bolts are supposed to be torqued to 8 ft.lbs., which is basically hand tight and about a half turn. If you tighten it too much, that's what flattens the gasket, and it will leak.

[@ciscokid1223]

Great tip that's exactly what I did and I had a leak.

[@dorianlord6576]

By far the best and most efficient fix on this issue! Thank you very much! You make it approachable and easy to understand. Great job!

[@tjellis1479]

There is another OIL SCREEN up front by the power steering pump....

[@enerilove1]

Thank you for filming this somewhat easy fix. I feel very comfortable in doing this to my new element.

[@paward4]

I’m curious, how the fix went on your Honda Element. What was difficult? Was there anything I could have described better?

[@wagm1413]

Gracias mi amigo. Tu vídeo me ayudó mucho con mi CRV 2008. Lo hice yo mismo y fue un éxito. Mi mecánico me pedía cambiar toda la parte y con solo cambiar el empaque fue suficiente. Me ahorré mucho dinero. En mi país estos repuestos son muy costosos. Saludos desde Costa Rica 🇨🇷👍👍👍

[@JesseExplores]

I've watched a few of these and this is definitely the best. Thanks!

[@paward4]

Thank you Jesse. I’ve been offline for a while getting the wife through optometry school. But she’s finished now. I’ll be doing more videos here shortly, on my S10, Passat, Trailblazer, and etc.

[@TheoatStudio]

going to attempt this job soon, i got all the tools except torque wrench, so im goin to do a gentle torque as in this video. Thanks its one of the best videos out there for VTEC solenoid work.

[@paward4]

Thanks! I’ve been a bit on the QT for a while bill be doing more content again here in the very near future

[@bsilverking80]

I'm about to replace the whole thing, only because I have big hands and not wanting to do this again any time soon. Great video man

[@paward4]

Thanks!! I enjoy making stuff stuff that helps!

[@juanmaperera]

haha I laugh a lot when you dropped the screw! I have to do this job tomorrow and I'm a bit terrified right now! Thanks for filming it

[@Clintaso]

I think what you did with replacing it is definitely the best option. If you’re going to take the time to take it out you might as well change it as opposed to just cleaning the screen. As far as diagnosing, there’s a step I’d take before even taking it out. When I got this code I figured it was the dirty screen as that seems to be the most common issue, but as with a lot of error codes, it could’ve been something else. To confirm it myself I just added some sea foam to my oil in an attempt to liquify any deposits on the (presumably) dirty screen and after idling for a couple minutes I was able to drive and get my RPMs up to normal highway conditions without issue...after only 30 miles the code cleared. Now when I go to change the gasket, I’ll have some peace of mind knowing that’s the true issue.

[@paward4]

Excellent info. Thank you!

[@jestep9]

Thanks for the great diy video. I really like that you got up close with good views of the whole process. This is one of the better videos I’ve seen.

[@ssippishark]

Thanks man. I had one bolt stripped, and had to order a new one, and a bolt extractor socket set before I could tackle the job. I think someone had over torqued them. I have read 7 to 10 foot pounds is correct.

[@paward4]

Good Info and reminder. Thanks!!

[@chelseywashington6158]

Which extractor set did u use

[@ssippishark]

@@chelseywashington6158 I bought a cheapo set from Harbor Freight. Pittsburg was the brand.

[@richardmorse5307]

Well done and informative. Thanks for posting!

[@zeppkfw]

Fixed my problem. My gasket was all brittle and bulging into the passageway for the oil. Also seen cracked rubber parts on the screen. Replaced it, cleared the codes, and so far after driving around for a day it seems to be fixed.

[@paward4]

Excellent! Glad it helped!!

[@angelisone]

ATG recommends to replace the whole assy rather than the gasket screen. Not fun climbing on the engine. Nice camera angles.

[@paward4]

angelisone thank you for the comment. Replacing the whole assembly is a good idea. For a car this old it may not be worth replacing the part for $60 unless I’m keeping the car for another 13+ years. I may not keep it this long so I opted to only change the screen. Climbing on a hot engine is not pleasant for sure.

[@PumpkinKingXXIII]

This video may have just saved my Christmas! Thanks!

[@paward4]

That’s what I like to hear! I love giving Christmas presents!!

[@bigE35094]

Unhook the ground only on the batt

[@brandonmyerhoffable]

If you're changing your oil you have a wide open shot at the 3 bolts from under the car.

[@octaviobourdon7287]

My brother only 8 foot pounds if you do 10 foot-pounds it is too much pressure on the gasket and it will start leaking after about 10000 to 20000 miles to get longevity after gasket it is recommended to only do eight foot pounds and try to have a torque wrench and it is best for you not to remove the heat shield lots of times the bolt 🔩 on the heat shield snaps, just trying to give you a heads up my brother. Very nice video I like it thank you very much

[@kimoclyde]

Unless you don't care, go exclusively with factory parts. I've seen videos where they compare aftermarket parts like these to factory once and the aftermarket ones have fitment issues (too small etc)

[@bcoulbourn]

Hell yeah!!! Thank you!

[@davidrosales271]

That intro bro, got me. God bless!

[@paward4]

Thanks David, I appreciate it!

[@MadMonk67]

If you've got a reader to get the code, it will likely also be able to clear that code. No need to unhook the battery and lock your radio.

[@kd1366]

I have the same code I can’t do the work due to tools,but I will take it to mechanics so what do you think he will charge me.waiting for your reply. Thank you very much for video and wish you all the best.

[@EmilioShack1982emilioRoman]

I did this, still same code. I replaced the whole solenoid new with new oil pressure switch fresh oil with new oil filter, still same code. Idk what to do next.

[@tjellis1479]

there is another oil screen up front near power steering pump....

[@gogisingh5111]

Thanks a lot

[@Dio0o0o]

do you recommend using replacement gaskets or OEM gaskets?

[@paward4]

From my experience, with this gasket, there hasn’t been a quantifiable difference between dealer and aftermarket gaskets. If you’re doing anything on the throttle body gasket, I recommend getting it from the dealer. I had negative experience with my 2007 CRV throttle body non dealer gasket.

[@darkhelmet4279]

Always best to get OEM if possible

[@sandywaddell7737]

You had p0661 and p2646 codes. Did this also fix the p0661 or was that a separate fix? I searched your video's and didn't see anything for p0661.

[@frankrivera4479]

Thank you for your help

[@alexiscoates4336]

i just changed my vtec solenoid and now i have a p2646 code. I'm gonna check it out and see if theres anything obvious but do you have any suggestions? i suspected my oil pressure switch below the solenoid but from what i can see that would throw a p2647 code...

[@UCfan]

Thank you so much!

[@paward4]

You’re welcome!

[@bartonarchuleta204]

Maybe I’m special on this one. But can anyone confirm if this is the same for 4 cyl Honda accords 2003-2007? Same engine hoping it’s the same part and procedure

[@wolverinex4243]

Why does the code include bank 1? Secondly, doesn't it flash on dash as an alternator, not the check engine sign?

[@xbigbobsagetx]

Iv replaced the valve twice and done two oil changes in 100 miles and after the motor warms up it still goes into limp mode with this code. Any ideas? Mines a 2005 with 213K miles. Just bought it and drove it a few hundred miles before the issue surfaced.

[@zeppkfw]

Hold on did you change just the gasket or the VTEC solenoid assembly? If it's the assembly you probably bought the Amazon one and they're known to break.

[@jmfw104]

I just changed mine as well. Second time and code came back. I bought the dorman assembly. Rather not pay 220 for the Honda one

[@xbigbobsagetx]

@@jmfw104 got rid of the car. I suggest getting the Honda part and if that doesn’t work then cut your losses

[@jarana10]

@@jmfw104 the Dorman model is known to fail if it’s coming from Amazon.

[@dyoolan]

I will try this on my 08 honda element. I don't have any leaks yet. I'm going to change the oil and change the rubber thing tomorrow and hope the check engine light doesn't come on. Although the light comes on then it turns off then it would turn on again later.

[@paward4]

Good work Seung!

[@theroyalone7588]

@@paward4 do I have to get my oil changed with this process with getting the gasket screen replaced?

[@jordane.fernandez7173]

I’m working for NASA then 😎 , hey !! Thanks !!!

[@paward4]

If you can put a round hole and square peg together you must work for NASA. 👍🏻 I had forgotten I had made that reference while removing the electrical connections to the valve body.

[@amino-ac-vlogstv5539]

Thanks bro you are the best

[@dawicked2k8]

My local Honda Stealership sold me the VTEC gasket for more then 10 dollars, those crooks are insane!! Hendrick Honda in Charlotte NC dont ever go there

[@zeppkfw]

VTEC gaskets cost $5-$10. I'd assume the OEM is higher quality since there's VTEC aftermarket gaskets with varying price and the cheaper ones usually fail faster.

[@Desertduleler_88]

I didn't know this was an error code for this leak. Mine has just started leaking but hasn't pulled a code yet.

[@shoaibb8862]

Thanks for sharing this amazing video....I wish I saw it earlier ...have an 06 crv and had the check solenoid replaced ...as the code coming up was rocker actuator...my check engine light triangle and vsa light all came on....after replacing ...the lights come back on from time to time....not sure if I want to go back to this mechanic again ....any thoughts? Oil was also changed when solenoid was changed

[@paward4]

Hi, thanks for your question. In software when you find a defect, you always test it again to make sure it’s still a problem. What would I do in this case? I would check the mechanic’s work... the O-ring between the valve and the engine. It’s possible there was some dirt or something left in place. If the mechanic shop looks to be clean and pristine like a Porsche dealership repair shop, then maybe that’s not the problem. However if it’s a questionable cleanliness/disorganized shop, it’s possible the O-ring is leaking. And as long as you have the valve assembly off, I’d probably get some (ATF+diesel fuel mixed 50/50) and give the valve body a good cleaning.

[@shoaibb8862]

@@paward4 thx for replying ! I only saw this now as I didn’t get a notification! Funny enough I went back to the mechanic today to have him look at it ...p2647 came up which was vtec oil pressure switch ...he advised that they cleaned the screen inside the solenoid because there was some oil crud ... he is saying that at next oil change I should do an engine flush ...I have 287k on the car ...any thoughts?

[@rustyzeetv2948]

Would this b a similar process on a 2.4L vtec 2007 honda accord giving me the same code

[@crispa1861]

It should be. Make sure you check the electrical connectors going to the vtec switch, and solenoid. If Ok, put a blog of die electric paste on both, and call it a day.

[@sportsmancraft1]

On my 2.4 Odyssey Vtec solenoid is only accessible from underneath the vehicle.

[@paward4]

Uggh, I’ll bet that was a lot of work!!!

[@josephmamuric3192]

I got p1259 code. What do you think is the issue? Thanks

[@syedasif42]

Hi... is this part is as same as Honda Odyssey 2008 . ?? I need price for whole assembly too. Thanks

[@paward4]

The 2008 Honda Odyssey probably has a V6 engine. Therefore this would not be exactly the same. Although, it probably does have the valve but I have not worked on one so I do not know where that valve would be.

[@goldsilverjunkie]

Once I stripped those bolts I had the worst day ever

[@sergionegrete329]

😂

[@wolverinex4243]

Lol these exact cars tend to p2646 at 200k mile. Lol.

[@mdmcolt]

I have an 05 Honda odyssey with the same code I change the VTEC solenoid and I still have the same code wonder what your thoughts are on that

[@paward4]

Seems that the Odyssey has the V6 so the specifics might be different. Here's some things I'd look at in the overall picture going from easiest to hardest. 1) History/frequency of oil changes. Is there any sludgy buildup in the engine (looking down the oil fill hole? 2) If you reset the code, and change the oil, does it still come on? 3) Is the VTEC solenoid receiving the proper power. 4)If you replace the solenoid, does the check engine light come on again. 5) A Google search on 2005 Honda Odyssey P2646 will turn up a plethora of info. Keep me informed on what happens and feel free to message me with updates. -Patrick

[@kennethrobinson1672]

Michael Mowery Get the honda part oem ...get the original part, it fix my problem after 2 months of

[@mdmcolt]

I did that that didn’t work either

[@davidjarvis3876]

I also replace single wire oil pressure switch code 2646 and 2647 went away

[@MitchGrooms]

great vid,, thx

[@paward4]

Thanks for watching! It was a fun video to make.

[@MitchGrooms]

@@paward4 I have a car channel, mostly Jags, old Trans Am's and Rolls, but my friend is having issues with this part and I sent it to his mechanic. You need to do more vids, you are great at this.

[@paward4]

Thanks @@MitchGrooms, I appreciate your feedback. I have multiple videos already filmed and working on the editing to get them posted. Keep an eye on my channel.

[@romanotelesforo3014]

Let’s go !!!!

[@israeltorres1086]

2005 Honda Pilot code p2646 I don’t know if it’s just the oil switch or the solenoid and there’s no videos to help

[@paward4]

Hmmm. How many kilometers/miles are in the engine? Rubber O-rings last about 7-8 yrs then start to fail. It could be a bad O-ring. This video shows how to replace that O-ring.

[@jarana10]

Help. Has anyone solved this p2646 issue ? I see also that there is a leak around my engine. I recently did a valve adjustment for my 08 with a new cover gasket. Then 3 days later I’ve got that same code. Could it be possible that dirt got into the engine while I was doing the valve adjustment? And got the vtec valve clogged? 168k miles on my car.

[@filthycade2399]

For my car it was replacing oil pressure switch that cleared code for good

[@64arguz]

When such code is displayed by the vehicle computer, not always assume you have a dirty filter , chances are your oil pressure switch is bad , even if you install a NEW unit don’t taken for granted is ok , it happens to me put a new Vtec unit in my ELEMENT and didn’t fix the code …. end of the history ? Took a switch from a Honda thrown in the junkyard and worked perfect and no code 🤷‍♂️

[@JAKOBOBU]

👍

[@tikochavsd]

look video of 1A auto , same part. more easy. thanks for up, get some tips.

[@randywells9676]

BTW, your worried about leaning over a hot engine and using a "blanket" you do realize your hands are touching the EXHAUST HEATSHIELD SMH

[@carterj117]

What kind of symptoms did the car have before you fixed it? I was driving my car and my dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree and then my car started jerking and it wouldn’t go over 30 mph.

[@ezyrdr5837]

I have a 06 Acura TL with 3.2 vetch My car drives fine until you get to about 30 and try to gas on it. That’s when check engine light comes on and my vsa and vsa on symbol. My code coming up is a p2647 which is saying my vvt solenoid is stuck on. You can try to just change the screen and filter and CHANGE OIL and oil filter when you do. If that doesn’t fix the problem it’s most likely the whole unit which has the solenoid and oil pressure switch. But that is around 200$

[@hungchung2726]

Hello are all the bolts 10mm?

[@paward4]

Yes all the bolts on the solenoid valve are 10 mm. One of the bolts may be longer than the others so keep track of where you pulled them.

[@hungchung2726]

@@paward4 Ok thanks, do you remember which one is longer?

[@paward4]

@@hungchung2726 check at timeframe 7 min 52 seconds. It looks like one is shorter and two are longer. The 7:52 time frame shows the orientation

[@hungchung2726]

@@paward4 Ok cool.

[@AndrewSmith-eq8np]

If you disconect the battery you will have to reset the tickover learning procedure to get it to tickover properly

[@AcerArtsOfficial]

Never had a issue disconnecting my battery

[@civgeek]

Very bummed. Replaced the whole assembly as the screen was clean. Still not the issue. Car bucks at around 2500 RPM while in gear. Doesn't do it when the revved in neutral.

[@paward4]

Hmmm, I wonder if the oil channel in the engine, where this assembly bolts to, has a blockage.

[@josenazario4316]

Im change the part new oil light is on again..🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@paward4]

You may have a bad solenoid valve. How long after code reset did it it throw the P2646 trouble code again?

[@josenazario4316]

@@paward4 Thanks 10 mint run the car light on.. Same day the light on new solenoid

[@paward4]

@@josenazario4316 Algunas preguntas: ¿Cuándo compró este auto? ¿Cuántos kilómetros tenía el auto cuando lo compró? ¿Cuántos kilómetros tiene ahora? ¿Con qué frecuencia cambia el aceite? Que tipo de aceite usas?

[@paward4]

@@josenazario4316 Y gracias por darme la oportunidad de practicar mi Español.

[@josenazario4316]

@@paward4 Gracias así es mejor 274 millage tiene ahora hace 2 años q lo compre se lo cambio bastante a menudo soy de los q le gusta tener los carros al día el último aceite q le fue hace 2 días mobil fue el q use..

[@kevinl6744]

Just happened to my 2003 element. 2646 code. V-Tec engines are trash

[@zacharygarman8485]

Did u fix it, if so what did you do,, same problem with my 03

[@prevost8686]

No, they’re the most reliable 4 cylinder engines made. Dumbasses that refuse to keep their oil changed at proper intervals are trash.