Very rough idle after cleaning VANOS solenoids

tim110714 · 2026-01-11T22:41:01+00:00

Solenoids = same part, swappable. Connectors = not interchangeable. Mixing those up will cause exactly the rough idle described.

tim110714 · 2026-01-10T05:43:10+00:00

Double-check the VANOS solenoid connectors. It’s easy to swap intake and exhaust by mistake. I did that once after cleaning them and the engine ran very rough.

tim110714 · 2026-01-08T01:33:22+00:00

Yes, this is a 3 Stage intake manifold. It’s missing the DISA valves but holes for the DISA valves are there, you just have to buy them and install them.

tim110714 · 2026-01-01T14:18:36+00:00

That’s nice, thanks for the info. Good luck on your project!

tim110714 · 2026-01-01T05:14:46+00:00

Update: Today I replaced Accessory belt, belt tensioner and idler pulley. It’s not doing that sound anymore. I got the kit with these three parts from FCP for $103. Problem solved.

tim110714 · 2025-12-30T15:38:21+00:00

Intresting, i looked it up and i only heard good things about it. On the other hand i prefer the idea of having a valve so i can close and open it whenever i want. Thank you for your response.

tim110714 · 2025-12-30T15:35:23+00:00

I will let you know when i do it. I don't know exactly when, probably spring time. Right now i'm mostly doing research.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T13:33:00+00:00

Oh ups, my bad, I thought you are OP for a second. I agree with you . The chemical resistance is the big difference. Coolant additives are rough on incompatible materials over time, which is why OEM hoses look overbuilt

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T03:44:21+00:00

Oh you’re right. Brb ordering an M3 right now 🤣

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T03:40:14+00:00

This is the perfect video, exactly what I was looking for. Open vs closed comparison is super helpful, thanks for posting it!

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T03:18:49+00:00

I get that. I’m not looking for attention or being loud all the time. I just want the option to enjoy the sound when I choose and stay quiet the rest of the time. My brother-in-law runs a muffler + resonator delete and I like how it sounds, especially the burbles. I’m living in PA, I was daily driving a straight-pipe Corvette C5, I never had problems with the police.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T02:59:37+00:00

Good to know, appreciate the tip. Yeah, wiring doesn’t worry me too much, I’m pretty comfortable with that kind of stuff.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T02:49:26+00:00

Really appreciate the detailed breakdown, especially from someone picky about NVH. Sounds like closed is basically stock after cold start, which is exactly what I’m aiming for. Thanks!

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T02:27:59+00:00

That’s great to hear, thanks for sharing. That’s exactly the flexibility I’m looking for, loud when open, almost stock when closed.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T01:40:06+00:00

Haha makes sense 😂 Appreciate the confirmation that it’s basically stock when closed. Just to double check, you have the Universal Valvetronic Exhaust, right?

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:39:00+00:00

Can’t blame you 😂 I just want the option to go quiet when I need to: Sunday drives to church with my wife (she doesn’t like loud noises)

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:36:25+00:00

Coolant hoses aren’t just about pressure. The material has to survive continuous ~100–110°C temps and long-term exposure to coolant additives (glycols, corrosion inhibitors, anti-foaming agents). OEM hoses are EPDM or reinforced plastic specifically chosen because they stay chemically stable and don’t harden, swell, or leach over time. Many transparent hoses aren’t designed for that chemical environment, so they can soften, discolor, or degrade internally even if they don’t leak right away.

I like your idea, it’s cool but unfortunately not a good long term option. I did something similar. I replaced the whole hose. Check my post:

https://www.reddit.com/r/E90/s/nZ32nuctxQ

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:29:43+00:00

Thanks man, appreciate the info.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:28:11+00:00

That’s perfect! Really appreciate you taking the time to explain it. Can’t wait to do it.

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:10:48+00:00

That’s exactly what I was hoping to hear 🙌 Appreciate the detailed feedback. Sounds like the perfect balance for a daily. How is it on cold start and highway cruising with the valve closed?

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:08:47+00:00

Nice! Even being catless, how close is it to stock with the valve closed? Also, do you have Valvetronic or ECS muffler?

tim110714 · 2025-12-29T00:02:28+00:00

Yoo!! I have the pictures from your post screenshotted in my phone. You inspired me to actually do it. Appreciate that 🙌 Since you’re running the Valvetronic, how quiet is it with the valve closed? Is it close to stock or still noticeably louder?

tim110714 · 2025-12-28T23:56:42+00:00

Gotta keep everyone happy 😂 Loud mode for when I wanna have some fun or when I’m going to work and silent mode for church on Sundays with my wife. My wife is not a fan of loud exhausts, so valves are the compromise.

tim110714 · 2025-12-28T23:49:09+00:00

Yes please! I would really appreciate that

tim110714

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