Maserati Camshaft Variator Failure: Common Problems and Solutions

Maserati is known for its powerful engine under the hood and the engine also comes equipped with camshaft variators that help in maintaining proper valve timing. The sole purpose of the camshaft variator in your Maserati is to help boost the performance of the engine as per the needs of the driver.

However, the camshaft variator is also prone to several issues and its failure leads to additional problems for your Maserati. Here in this article, we will discuss the common problems faced by Maserati drivers due to faulty camshaft variator & their solutions.

Unusual Noise When Starting

One of the primary problems that you are going to face when driving your Maserati due to a camshaft variator failure is getting to hear unusual noises in the form of metallic rattling when starting the engine cold. As the camshaft variator is responsible for maintaining proper valve timing, its failure makes the functioning of many components go haywire.

This is because due to the malfunctioning camshaft variator, the adequate oil pressure required for the smooth starting of the vehicle fails to be achieved and the proper timing also gets delayed. Now, if this problem goes unaddressed for a long time, then it has the potential to completely damage the timing chain & the engine of your high-end car.

Upon inspection if the camshaft variator is found to be all right then using high-quality synthetic oil with good viscosity will help you get rid of the issue. However, the long-term solution is only possible by replacing the old camshaft variator with a new one.

Besides that, you should also stick to the manufacturer-recommended oil change schedule of your car as it prevents variator wear.

Delayed or Irregular Acceleration

The acceleration in your Maserati is always smooth and very responsive whenever you press the gas pedal and this makes the high-end car stand out against its competitors. Nevertheless, with a malfunctioning camshaft variator under the hood, the camshaft timing goes disarray & often leads to sluggish acceleration & improper power delivery.

In fact, the problem with the acceleration of your Maserati becomes instantly evident when you accelerate from low RPMs as the engine faces problems in balancing the air & fuel intake. That is when the performance of your car also takes a hit and resorting to a diagnostic scan is the only way to determine variator timing problems.

You must immediately get in touch with a certified auto repair shop to help scan your Maserati for the error codes and if it is found that the variator is faulty then it is replaced with a new one. Besides that, you must also focus your attention on the engine control unit as updating its software will also assist in optimizing the timing control.

Damaged Timing Chain

Most drivers aren’t aware of the fact that the timing chain is a crucial component under the hood of their car that helps various other parts in carrying out their functions efficiently. Often it is observed that a worn camshaft variator can lead to various kinds of problems with the functioning of the timing chain as it builds up stress in the system.

If you come across very bad timing synchronization, reduced engine efficiency, and complete chain failure then it can lead to serious engine damage. Now, if the problem with the timing chain is detected quickly then replacing the variator along with the chain tensioner will pave the way for the smooth running of your high-end car.

Moreover, you might have resort to complete timing chain replacement if it is completely stretched and this is going to prevent further damages to the other components linked to the timing chain.

Increases Fuel Consumption

At times, Maserati drivers might not be keeping tabs on the miles per gallon of their vehicle. However, this a grave mistake they are committing because if there is a sudden increase in the fuel consumption of their vehicle then it indicates something is seriously wrong with your car.

Often it is noticed that a failing camshaft variator can cause an increase in the miles per gallon of your vehicle and this is when you need to rope in a Maserati specialist who can help you diagnose any faults with your camshaft variator and initiate remedial measures accordingly.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the ways a camshaft variator failure creates problems for your Maserati. Most of the time drivers have the habit of ignoring the initial signs of problem and keep on driving, however, you must desist from committing this mistake and get in touch with a professional repair shop immediately so that your high-end car can be inspected & fixed accordingly.