'02 Pathfinder 3.5L VVT

[Rustmeister]

Hi everybody, first time posting.

I'm chasing trouble codes in my '02 Pathfinder, first was a Bank 2 Camshaft sensor (replaced), now it's P0021.

From what I could find, it looks like my problem is with the VVT solenoid. So, my questions are as follows:

Can I pull it out and clean it? Looks like one bolt holds it into the engine mount.

If not, can I get just the solenoid? When I'm searching for the part, all I turn up is the whole assembly, but I see solenoids without the housing in the "related" sections of the search. None of them are indicated for my engine.

Any help would be appreciated.

[Flash777]

Not totally sure if you can clean it up to fully function again. The only VVT valve I've replaced was on a Lexus GS300, and I didn't even try to clean it. I just replaced it and my CEL was clear from there on out. It was 1 bolt and it pulled right out. Looks like the solenoid is available just by itself though. http://www.nissanpartsprime.com/parts-l ... m=130_B001

[PathyPop]

It's the whole assembly (electric actuator + 3-bolt housing) as a single part. I had trouble with these, the same P0021 code. The last thing I did was to blow compressed air into the five oil galleries on top of the engine, where the housing bolts up to. I think I had crud in those passages and 30-40 psi cleared them out. Use a rag on top or could get messy.

Those VVT solenoids are very durable and available on many VQ35 engines at the pick your part for just a few dollars each.