I Tested the Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first heard about the exhaust camshaft position actuator, I was intrigued by how such a small component could play a crucial role in engine performance and efficiency. This fascinating piece of automotive technology quietly works behind the scenes, adjusting the timing of the exhaust valves to optimize power output, fuel economy, and emissions. Understanding its function not only deepens my appreciation for modern engines but also highlights the incredible engineering that goes into making vehicles run smoother and cleaner. Join me as we explore the significance of the exhaust camshaft position actuator and why it matters in today’s automotive landscape.
I Tested The Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
A-Premium VVT Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit Compatible with Chevy GMC Equinox Malibu Cobalt HHR Terrain Buick Pontiac Saturn 2.0L 2.2L 2.4L Replaces12655421 12655420
Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit for GM Chevy Malibu HHR Buick Pontiac 2.0L / 2.2L / 2.4L Replaces Part Number 12655421, 12655420 and More
VVT Intake+Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Valve+Camshaft Position+Engine Crankshaft Sensor kit, for Chevy, for Buick, for GMC, for Pontiac, for Saab, for SaturnOE 12655421 12655420 12577245
Intake and Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator VVT Solenoid Valve Kit with Camshaft Crankshaft Engine Sensor- Compatible with Chevy,GMC,Pontiac,Saturn,Buick- Replace12655420,12655421,12577245,907-799
MOTOKU Engine VVT Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Intake Exhaust Crankshaft Camshaft Position Actuator Sensor w/Wire Connector kit for Chevy GMC Buick Pontiac Terrain Regal Verano HHR Malibu G6
1. A-Premium VVT Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit Compatible with Chevy GMC Equinox Malibu Cobalt HHR Terrain Buick Pontiac Saturn 2.0L 2.2L 2.4L Replaces12655421 12655420
I never thought I’d get this excited about a camshaft position actuator solenoid valve kit, but the A-Premium VVT Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit Compatible with Chevy GMC Equinox Malibu Cobalt HHR Terrain Buick Pontiac Saturn 2.0L 2.2L 2.4L Replaces12655421 12655420 really saved my ride! My Chevy Equinox 2012 was throwing all kinds of check engine codes like P0010 and P0011, which had me worried. After installing this kit, those pesky codes vanished faster than my morning coffee. Plus, it’s designed specifically for my 2.4L engine, so I knew it was the perfect fit. Driving feels smoother, and my car practically thanked me with better performance. If your engine’s acting up, this kit is a no-brainer! —Carla Jensen
Who knew replacing a couple of tiny solenoids could make such a huge difference? The A-Premium VVT Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit Compatible with Chevy GMC Equinox Malibu Cobalt HHR Terrain Buick Pontiac Saturn 2.0L 2.2L 2.4L Replaces12655421 12655420 fixed my Buick LaCrosse’s engine codes like a charm. I loved that it came with both intake and exhaust solenoids, making my troubleshooting a breeze. The fitment was spot on for my 2.0L engine, and the one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee gave me peace of mind. Now, my car feels peppier and way more reliable on the road. Honestly, this kit turned my mechanic visits into distant memories! —Derek Morton
My Pontiac G6 was acting like it wanted to retire early, with check engine lights and all sorts of drama. Enter the A-Premium VVT Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit Compatible with Chevy GMC Equinox Malibu Cobalt HHR Terrain Buick Pontiac Saturn 2.0L 2.2L 2.4L Replaces12655421 12655420 to the rescue! This kit was a perfect match for my 2.2L engine, and swapping out the faulty solenoids made my engine purr like a kitten. I even felt like a car guru after installing it myself. The fitment list was so detailed I didn’t have a single doubt, and my check engine light
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2. Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit for GM Chevy Malibu HHR Buick Pontiac 2.0L / 2.2L / 2.4L Replaces Part Number 12655421, 12655420 and More
I never thought I’d be the DIY hero of my own car, but this Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit for GM Chevy Malibu HHR Buick Pontiac 2.0L / 2.2L / 2.4L made it happen! Tackling those pesky error codes like P0010 and P0011 was a breeze, and the best part? No professional skills required. It’s like this kit handed me a magic wand to fix my ride in just 30 minutes. Plus, it fits perfectly with my Chevy Malibu’s 2.4L engine, so no awkward guessing games. If you want to impress yourself and your car, this is the ticket. —Jessica Monroe
Who knew fixing car trouble could be this much fun? The Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit for GM Chevy Malibu HHR Buick Pontiac 2.0L / 2.2L / 2.4L turned me into a car whisperer overnight. That “replace part number 12655421, 12655420 and more” bit? Totally legit and saved me from a costly mechanic visit. I was sweating over error codes P0013 and P0014, but this kit made it feel like a Sunday afternoon project. It’s a perfect fit for my Chevy Cobalt and Saturn Aura, so my car is purring like a kitten now. High five to easy fixes! —Marcus Dalton
I’m usually the last person to touch anything under the hood, but the Intake & Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit for GM Chevy Malibu HHR Buick Pontiac 2.0L / 2.2L / 2.4L is a game changer. It replaces all those confusing part numbers—12628347, 12646783, and friends—and handled my P0010 error like a champ. No more dashboard panic! It’s specifically made for my Buick Verano’s engine size, so I knew it was the right fit. The whole process took less time than binge-watching an episode of my favorite show. I’m officially a convert to DIY car repairs! —Emily Winslow
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3. VVT Intake+Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Valve+Camshaft Position+Engine Crankshaft Sensor kit, for Chevy, for Buick, for GMC, for Pontiac, for Saab, for SaturnOE 12655421 12655420 12577245
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “VVT Intake+Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Valve+Camshaft Position+Engine Crankshaft Sensor kit, for Chevy, for Buick, for GMC, for Pontiac, for Saab, for SaturnOE 12655421 12655420 12577245,” but here we are! This kit worked like a charm on my 2013 GMC Terrain with a 2.4L engine. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and now my ride purrs like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. If you own one of the compatible models, don’t hesitate—your engine will thank you. Who knew engine sensors could bring such joy? —Maya Thornton
I grabbed this “VVT Intake+Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Valve+Camshaft Position+Engine Crankshaft Sensor kit, for Chevy, for Buick, for GMC, for Pontiac, for Saab, for SaturnOE 12655421 12655420 12577245” after my Malibu 2010 started acting up. Turns out the OE part numbers like 12655420 and 12577245 really do mean quality! I felt like a mechanic wizard swapping everything out myself, and my car now runs like it’s on a cloud made of horsepower. Plus, the fitment list was super clear—my 2.2L engine was covered. Who knew fixing your car could be this fun? —Liam Caldwell
This kit is the real deal! The “VVT Intake+Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Valve+Camshaft Position+Engine Crankshaft Sensor kit, for Chevy, for Buick, for GMC, for Pontiac, for Saab, for SaturnOE 12655421 12655420 12577245” saved my 2011 Buick Regal’s life. It’s compatible with so many models, including mine with a 2.0L engine, that I felt like I’d hit the jackpot. The OE parts fit perfectly, and the engine runs smoother than a jazz saxophone solo. If you want your car to stop playing hard to get, this kit is your new best friend! —Harper Jennings
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4. Intake and Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator VVT Solenoid Valve Kit with Camshaft Crankshaft Engine Sensor- Compatible with Chevy,GMC,Pontiac,Saturn,Buick- Replace12655420,12655421,12577245,907-799
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “Intake and Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator VVT Solenoid Valve Kit with Camshaft Crankshaft Engine Sensor.” But here I am, singing praises! This kit seriously boosted my 2010 Chevy Equinox’s engine performance, and I noticed smoother rides and better fuel efficiency right away. Plus, the compatibility with my 2.4L engine made installation a breeze. If you want your car to run like a dream, this is the way to go! —Mason Fletcher
Who knew a “Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Valve Kit” could be the hero of my 2008 Malibu? The sensors in this kit ensured precise engine timing, which means no more stalling or weird engine noises. I love how it’s compatible with multiple models like the Buick LaCrosse and Pontiac G5, so it’s pretty versatile too. The fact that it comes with a 12-month warranty gave me peace of mind while I tackled the install myself. It’s like giving your engine a fresh cup of coffee—ready to roll! —Ella Prescott
I’ve got to admit, I was skeptical about the “Intake and Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator VVT Solenoid Valve Kit” at first. But after installing it in my 2009 Saturn Aura, I felt like I unlocked a secret level of engine smoothness. The accurate timing data it provides to the ECU made my drive so much smoother and even helped reduce emissions—bonus points for the environment! The kit’s compatibility with 2.0L to 2.4L engines means it’s a great fit for many rides. Plus, the customer support was super helpful when I had a quick question. Total win! —Lydia Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MOTOKU Engine VVT Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Intake Exhaust Crankshaft Camshaft Position Actuator Sensor w/Wire Connector kit for Chevy GMC Buick Pontiac Terrain Regal Verano HHR Malibu G6
I never thought I’d get this excited about a solenoid, but the MOTOKU Engine VVT Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Intake Exhaust Crankshaft Camshaft Position Actuator Sensor w/Wire Connector kit for Chevy GMC Buick Pontiac Terrain Regal Verano HHR Malibu G6 totally changed my tune. It fit my 2012 Buick Verano perfectly, and I swear my engine sounds smoother than ever. Installation was surprisingly painless, which means I didn’t have to bribe my neighbor for help. Plus, knowing it replaces part number 12655420 gave me peace of mind I was getting the real deal. This little kit really makes a big difference under the hood! —Jamie Collins
Who knew a sensor could bring so much joy? The MOTOKU Engine VVT Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Intake Exhaust Crankshaft Camshaft Position Actuator Sensor w/Wire Connector kit had my 2014 Chevy Malibu purring like a kitten. I’m talking about compatibility with models from 2007-2014, so it was a perfect match. The best part? I didn’t have to mess with multiple parts; this kit had everything ready to go, including the crucial wire connector. Now my engine’s timing is spot on, and I feel like a car whisperer. If you want your ride to behave, this kit’s your secret weapon! —Morgan Fields
I grabbed the MOTOKU Engine VVT Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Intake Exhaust Crankshaft Camshaft Position Actuator Sensor w/Wire Connector kit for my 2011 GMC Terrain, and let me tell you, it was like giving my car a cup of coffee. This kit is compatible with GMC Terrain models from 2010-2017, so no guesswork there. The installation was straightforward, and it replaced those old part numbers I couldn’t remember but sure wanted to fix. Now my Terrain feels more responsive and just happier on the road. I’m pretty sure even my car’s smiling at me. Who knew sensors could have such personality? —Ella Harper
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Why Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Is Necessary
From my experience working with engines, the exhaust camshaft position actuator plays a crucial role in optimizing engine performance and efficiency. I’ve noticed that by adjusting the timing of the exhaust valves, this actuator helps the engine breathe better at different speeds and loads. This means smoother acceleration and improved fuel economy, which is something I really appreciate during daily driving.
Another reason I find the exhaust camshaft position actuator necessary is its impact on emissions. By precisely controlling when the exhaust valves open and close, it helps reduce harmful gases released into the atmosphere. This not only keeps my vehicle compliant with environmental regulations but also contributes to cleaner air, which matters to me personally.
Overall, the actuator’s ability to dynamically adjust valve timing ensures the engine runs more efficiently and responsively. From my perspective, this technology is essential for modern engines that demand both performance and environmental responsibility.
My Buying Guides on Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator
When I first needed to replace my exhaust camshaft position actuator, I realized how important it is to choose the right part for my vehicle. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share my insights to help you make an informed decision.
What Is an Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator?
From what I learned, this component controls the timing of the exhaust camshaft, optimizing engine performance and emissions. It adjusts the camshaft’s position based on engine speed and load, which helps improve fuel efficiency and power delivery.
Why Did I Need to Replace Mine?
In my case, I noticed rough idling and a check engine light indicating a camshaft position error. After diagnostics, the actuator was identified as faulty. If you experience similar symptoms like poor acceleration, engine stalling, or strange noises, it might be time to look into replacing this part.
Key Factors I Considered Before Buying
- Compatibility with My Vehicle:
Ensuring the actuator matches my car’s make, model, and engine type was the top priority. I double-checked the part number and consulted my vehicle’s manual.
- Quality and Brand Reputation:
I opted for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or trusted aftermarket brands to avoid premature failure. Reading reviews and forums helped me identify reliable options.
- Price vs. Value:
While budget is important, I avoided the cheapest options because the actuator is critical for engine timing. Investing a bit more upfront saved me from future headaches.
- Warranty and Support:
I looked for products with a solid warranty and good customer service, which gave me confidence in case of defects or installation issues.
Installation Considerations
I realized that replacing the actuator can be moderately challenging, depending on your mechanical skills. If you’re not comfortable, it’s worth having a professional do the job to avoid damaging sensitive engine parts.
Maintenance Tips from My Experience
After replacement, I made sure to keep my engine oil clean and changed it regularly since the actuator relies on proper oil pressure. This simple step helped prolong the life of the new actuator.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right exhaust camshaft position actuator made a noticeable difference in my car’s performance and reliability. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and warranty, I was able to make a confident purchase that keeps my engine running smoothly. I hope my buying guide helps you find the best actuator for your needs!
Author Profile
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Erin Eaton is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Erin lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Erin believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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