Replacing Intake & Exhaust Solenoids - 2.4 Ecotec - '07 Chevy HHR

In this video, I replace the intake and exhaust cam actuator solenoids due to engine fault codes P0010, P0011 - which reference the intake solenoid, and P0013, P0014 - which reference the exhaust solenoid. This can be done in 20 minutes on the fairly inexpensive side with little to no mechanical knowledge at all. Seriously. Watch and I will show you the entire process, start to finish. Part numbers and helpful items listed below description.

Symptoms? The main symptom that started to appear was the transmission started shifting harshly. It was a mild difference at first and then started to kick more violently into gear, coupled with the check engine light coming on. At this point, I knew it was time to retrieve the codes.

So, if you are experiencing similar issues, this may help you fix them. I would definitely recommend pulling the engine codes first to be sure you are getting some or all of the codes listed above. If you do not have your own scan tool, you can take it to your nearest automotive parts store to have them pull the codes for you. However, they are readily available on Amazon for about the price of a combo meal.

I use the Panlong Bluetooth OBDII Scanner for Android, which is also available for iOS. I pair it with the Torque Lite App, allowing access to the codes and real time data on all my cars, as needed.

TAKE NOTE: Many people have this problem misdiagnosed by auto part stores as being the cam position sensor. It is easy to misinterpret the codes as sensors, but the codes (P0010, P0011, P0013, P0014) will be for the solenoids.

CEL Codes:
P0010, P0011 - Intake Cam Actuator Solenoid
P0013, P0014 - Exhaust Cam Actuator Solenoid

Parts to Fix:
GM Part No: 12655420 - Intake Solenoid (replaced by 12679099)
GM Part No: 12655421 - Exhaust Solenoid (replaced by 12679100)

Parts you may need along the way:
OEM Style Replacement Air Intake Filters (many options, here are a few)
STP Part No: SA10093
AC Delco Part No: A3054C
K&N Performance Part No: 33-2339

Replacement Rubber Insulators for Air Filter Box:
GM Part No: 12563914

5W-30 Engine Oil of your choice - Good time to change the oil.
Vacuum or Compressed Air - Blow debris out before removing solenoids.
Shop Towels - Creates floppy paper airplanes, but good for cleanup.
Chopstick - Seriously useful in many scenarios, keep some handy.
Grease - Automotive, not from the fryer.