Why did Honda remove VTEC?
Honda has not eliminated VTEC across its current engines. The technology remains in use on many gasoline-powered models, often branded as i-VTEC or VTEC Turbo. In hybrids and other electrified powertrains, Honda may rely on different valve-timing approaches or fully electric systems, but VTEC itself has not been retired across the board.
Understanding VTEC in Today’s Honda Powertrains
VTEC stands for Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control. It allows the engine to switch between different cam profiles, delivering high performance at higher revs while maintaining efficiency at lower speeds. In modern Hondas, VTEC has evolved into i-VTEC (which adds advanced timing control) and, in turbocharged models, VTEC Turbo branding to signal the combination of variable timing with boosted power.
Branding and Variants
Many current engines are marketed as i-VTEC or VTEC Turbo, depending on turbocharging and the target market. The underlying idea—variable valve control for a blend of power and efficiency—remains central, even as Honda updates the system with newer sensors, actuators, and control software.
Where VTEC Is Still Found in Honda’s Lineup
Before outlining where VTEC appears, note that the use of VTEC varies by model, market, and powertrain strategy. The following points give a snapshot of its current status.
- Turbocharged gasoline engines, such as popular 1.5-liter turbo variants, often use VTEC Turbo branding to signal the evolved VTEC system paired with forced induction.
- Naturally aspirated or less aggressively tuned engines in several models still employ i-VTEC to optimize both performance and fuel economy across a broad rpm range.
- Hybrid and electrified Honda models tend to rely on different valve timing approaches or no VTEC at all, reflecting a shift toward electrified powertrains and Atkinson-cycle configurations where applicable.
- Market-specific choices mean that some regions emphasize turbocharged gasoline engines with VTEC branding, while others push hybrids or electrified options that don’t use VTEC.
Overall, VTEC remains a feature in many of Honda’s gasoline engines, but its presence is not uniform across every model or market, and branding adapts to the broader powertrain strategy.
Why Honda Keeps VTEC Instead of Removing It
Honda’s decision to continue developing VTEC is driven by several practical considerations tied to performance, efficiency, and engineering strategy.
- Performance and efficiency gains from variable valve timing and lift help meet both power and economy targets without resorting to larger engines.
- Engineering and manufacturing efficiency are supported by reusing a proven architecture rather than designing entirely new systems for every model.
- Brand identity and enthusiast appeal: VTEC has a strong historical association with Honda’s performance image, which remains a selling point for many buyers.
- Electrification is accelerating, but internal combustion engines still play a major role in Honda’s lineup. VTEC continues to offer benefits in the gasoline segment while the company advances hybrids and EVs.
In short, retaining VTEC aligns with Honda’s goal of balancing performance, efficiency, and a gradual transition toward electrified powertrains without abandoning its core engineering heritage.
Impact on Model Strategy and Markets
The use of VTEC reflects a strategic mix rather than a uniform approach. In some markets and models, VTEC remains central to the gasoline lineup, while in others Honda emphasizes hybrids and electric powertrains that do not rely on VTEC. This phased approach lets Honda address varying regulations, fuel economy targets, and consumer preferences around the world.
Summary
Honda has not “removed” VTEC from its entire lineup. The technology persists in many current gasoline engines, especially in turbocharged and i-VTEC-equipped models, while electrified options and some market-specific choices move away from VTEC. The evolution of VTEC reflects Honda’s broader push toward improved efficiency, performance, and a comprehensive electrification strategy, rather than an outright elimination of the technology.
Did Honda drop VTEC?
The cylinder head had to be compact to fit under low-profile hoods when transversely mounted, so the bearing caps are incorporated into the valve cover, reducing the head's height by 1.2 inches. VTEC has been deleted, but variable cam phasing is present on both intake and exhaust cams.
What are the disadvantages of VTEC?
Disadvantages of VTEC include potential for more frequent oil changes, a narrower powerband with less low-end torque on older models, and susceptibility to engine damage from improper maintenance or incorrect VTEC engagement. The system relies heavily on clean oil pressure, so low oil levels or dirty oil can clog solenoids and prevent engagement. Driving the car in ways that don't allow the engine to warm up properly or engaging VTEC outside its intended RPM range can also cause premature wear and damage.
Maintenance and engine health
- Requires frequent oil changes: VTEC systems depend on correct oil pressure and clean oil to function, so they require more frequent oil changes than some other engines.
- Susceptible to oil contamination: Dirty or low-quality oil can clog the VTEC solenoid and prevent the system from engaging properly, notes Brock Automotive Import Service.
- Requires specific oil: Using the wrong type or weight of oil can prevent the system from working correctly and may even cause damage, according to this YouTube video.
- Oil dilution in some models: Some turbocharged VTEC engines, especially older ones like the 1.5L turbo, can suffer from fuel diluting the engine oil, particularly on short trips, says this YouTube video.
Performance and wear
- Lower low-end torque: Some VTEC engines may have less torque at lower RPMs compared to their non-VTEC counterparts.
- Potential for engine damage if abused: Engaging VTEC at very low or very high RPMs can cause damage to engine components.
- Wear on components: Locking the VTEC system in a permanent high-lift position can cause accelerated wear on the rocker and valve train over time.
- VTEC solenoid issues: The solenoid itself can fail due to age, oil contamination, or electrical issues, resulting in a lack of VTEC engagement and a check engine light.
Other potential issues
- Engine vibrations: Worn spark plugs or engine mounts can cause engine vibrations, and in some cases, a faulty timing belt can be the cause.
- Drive belt wear: The drive belt can wear out quickly on some VTEC engines.
Does Honda still make VTEC engines?
But the new 2023 Honda Pilot SUV has debuted an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine that features a raft of improvements and the elimination of VTEC. The engine's low-profile cylinder heads include high-tumble intake ports and a narrow 35-degree valve angle for improved combustion.
Why is Honda getting rid of VTEC?
Coincidentally, while CVCC was an emissions control technology, VTEC is being phased out in favor of more conventional double overhead cam (DOHC) technology in pursuit of less pollution. Honda's non-turbocharged engines since the 1990s have employed single overhead camshafts featuring two sets of lobes.
