Almost all car manufacturers today offer technologies and various products for camshaft adjustment.
Camshaft adjusters were originally used primarily to increase performance in top models. Still, they are becoming more common in other vehicles to optimize fuel consumption and emissions.
The technologies used by the manufacturers differ in their details. For example, Porsche uses cams with different running surfaces in combination with multi-part tappets, while other manufacturers adjust the valve lift with variable deflection angles.
Honda’s i-VTEC system uses a combination of variable-height cams and switchable rocker arms. Hydraulic chain tensioners are in use at Audi, VW, and Mercedes.
Examples of camshaft adjustment systems from different manufacturers:
1. Phase adjustment is used in many Audi, VW, and Mercedes vehicles: The Camshaft opens or closes the valves earlier or later as required. The opening duration and the valve lift remain unchanged.
2. Honda uses the so-called VTEC system (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System), which increases power at high revs.
3. BMW uses VANOS (variable camshaft control). Some models, such as the BMW316ti, also work with VALVETRONIC technology, which works completely without a throttle valve.
4. VVT-i (variable valve timing intelligent) is the name of the camshaft adjustment system at Toyota. The Camshaft is also monitored by a sensor and adjusted if necessary.
5. In the Mercedes A-Class, the whole thing occurs via the CAMTRONIC control, which enables variable valve lift.
From this article, you can see different types of camshaft adjusters used in today’s modern car.