| OverTime |
Hello. I have a 2003 acura mdx with a CEL and VTM-4 light on. The dealer says the valves need adjusting at $600+. I did a search here and it appears that others have had similar problems with their vehicle in the 50-60k range.
Anyways, I first reported the CEL/VTM problem at under 50k miles (so still under bumper to bumper warranty) at which time they told me to tighten the gas cap more and put in chevron or shell premium gas (ok...). The problem hasn't gone away (although some time as passed) and they are now telling me its because the valves need adjusting and that this isn't under warranty because it is "wear and tear".
Needless to say, this sounds absurd to me. Anyone have any knowledge or recommendations regarding this? Should I contact acura directly?
Thanks! |
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| ROTORRAY |
You can generally tell if the valves need adjustment when they get "noisy." They click and clatter. I don't think that with your mileage it's the valves. It won't hurt to check with another dealer for a second opinion, or even an independent shop. JMHO.
Good luck and, as always, let us know what happens. |
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| highcountrymdx |
It has been reported many times in this forum that an egr valve malfunction is signaled by the illumination of the check engine light along with the VTM-4 light. Try a search with "egr". There might even be an extended warranty program for the egr valve.
Valve adjustment? Sounds like a fishing expedition to me. |
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| Ceenit |
I agree that valve adjustment at 50-60k sounds fishy.
If this were truly a wear and tear item, Acura would have listed it in their regular maintenance checks and requirements. |
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| richkuan |
It's just that their tech need a car to practice valve adjustment while get paid.
If I remember right, 100k miles is the time to begin to see if the valve is "noisy" and adjust if it's "nosiy". And, if the CEL came on, it's a problem, not a maintenance issue. Unless it's caused by lack of maintenance. But, clearly, this is not the case.
If it's the EGR, it's emission parts and should have separate warranty, which is normally longer than standard B2B warranty.
Let us know how things going. |
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| OverTime |
What exactly is an "EGR" valve?
Well, I picked up the car (after paying the money). I told them I'd call Acura customer care and ask if valve adjustments that cause the CEL and VTM-4 lights to come on are really a wear and tear item. The said they'd gladly refund the cost of the adjustment if acura told them it was covered.
The service manager attempted to imply that because I (my wife actually) had used 89 octane in the past that this accelerated the "wear and tear" and was akin to not changing the oil on the car (after I pointed out that 91 octane was recommended but not required). He also said that a valve adjustment is part of the maintenance at 90k miles (perhaps he was fudging and this is really just a "check" to make sure it is operating smoothly?).
hmmm...will post again after I get a chance to talk to acura. |
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| ROTORRAY |
| Find another dealer whom you don't have to play games with your wallet. There are some fine independents out there who will treat you right. Some dealers, too. Just not the one your presently working with!!!!! |
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