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VCM Muzzler - long term review (5 years 70,000 miles)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 ส.ค. 2024
- 7/06/2023 Mileage Update 121,652 (Nothing new to report).
A review of the VCM Muzzler II installed on my 2014 Honda Odyssey after 5 years and over 70,000 miles of use. Honda's VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) operates by shutting down the engine from 6 cylinders to 4 cylinders, then to 3 cylinders, to improve fuel efficiency. VCM can cause issues with your engine such as foul spark plugs, oil consumption, and bad engine mounts. VCM Muzzler solves that by keeping the Honda 3.5L V6 (J35) in 6 cylinder mode.
Update review at 100,000 miles • 100,000 miles with VCM...
Update review at 120,000 miles • VCM Muzzler II review ...
What is VCM? • Variable Cylinder Mana...
How to install VCM Muzzler II. • How To Install VCMuzzler
Why VCM can cause engine failure • Why Cylinder Deactivat... Skip to11:40
I disabled my VCM several years ago with a Muzzler. My excessive oil consumption stopped right away. Night and day. I have had annual emissions tests since then without any problems. Honda should offer a disable button on their vehicles so people have the choice of using this feature or not.
Newer Civic has eco button on 4 cylinder
@@penelopeLovesYou 4 cylinders don't utilize VCM--- only Honda's with 6 cylinder engines... it disables either Cylinder 1, 2, 3 or 3 & 4 when in it drops in eco mode (there is no button like on my Accord-- it goes into eco automatically during low power conditions) ..... I changed my Spark Plugs on my 2011 Odyssey at 215,000 miles (had been previously done at 125,000).... the #4 cylinder spark plug was all fouled up-- had caused a CEL with code P0303 (Cylinder 3 misfire).... 1, 2, 3 sparkplugs were lightly fouled... 5, and 6 looked great (these cylinders are never disabled by the VCM)--- I purchased VCM Muzzler last October--- no problems..... 227,000 miles on vehicle now-- I have not inspected the plugs since then but will soon.
@@penelopeLovesYou That button is for ECON mode, there's a difference. Either way, 4 cylinders don't have VCM. V6 models have the ECON button as well, but it's not a VCM button.
Honda can't offer a button to disable it as that would negate the benefit of having it. The EPA is why they need to have it.
Heck even my 2015 Kia Rio has an eco shut off button and it’s just a basic edition with no power windows or locks 🤣
I have VCM Muzzler on my 2012 Honda Pilot. I installed it in 2015 in have over 100,000 mile on the vehicle now and it works great . As Andrew said I forgot about it.
I installed one on a 2009 Honda Pilot, which was fouling out the #1 spark plug about ever 15,000 miles. It cured the problem, and it's been on there so long I've pretty much forgotten all about it. Worked great!
I have a 2011 Honda Pilot. I went to a 5000 mile oil change interval with full synthetic or synthetic blend oil for high mileage engines, and regular use of Redline Fuel treatment using 5 oz per tank about every other tank or so, or I put name brand detergent gasoline in it. The plugs run clean and the piston tops are much cleaner. I put a scope down through the spark plug holes during oil change to inspect. At 122,000 miles the pistons and plugs run cleaner then when I bought it at 66,000 miles. To be honest it didn't use oil, but it did foul the plugs a couple of time before I changed the plugs at 96,000 miles. On the current maintenance routine it has not errored or fouled a plug at all in 25,000 miles.
I need to buy Mr. Verbatim a beer. What a great contribution to society this invention has been.
I installed this on my 2019 ridgeline let me just say I love it ...it's lot more responsive when you wanna pass some one on the hwy and at a stop. Gas mileage about the the same on my dailey commute. I ve had it for month now and very impressed with the results..
Which Muzzler did you use
Thank you for the explanation of the VCM muzzled and mpg results. When choosing between high maintenance and motor damage, over lower mpg with lower maintenance costs and less damage to your investment, I think you made the correct choice. In the long run, paying a little more in mpg is better than ruining your investment. Smart choice. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. Good work.
I had a vcm tuner I installed on a 15 accord coupe and drove it for 6 years and 130,000 miles. No issues with the car at all, and my best mpg was 35.8. Vcm doesn't save gas, it damages the engine and keeps hippies happy.
Thank you for this video Mr Wang. This video was professionally done and explained about vcm.
If you're hesitant, don't be. I bought a 2010 Honda Accord V6 and had not even put 5k miles and already two trips to the shop, both trips, misfires. Sitting at 103,sum miles.
Today was my first day of installing the part and already feel a difference. Less vibration and no more jerking when coming to a stop (thought it was my transmission.) Maybe now I won't trade my car in 😂
(Update: one week later, noticed my needle on the rpms slightly above 1000 during a cold start. After about a half hour of driving it sits between 500-1000 rpms on idle)
I hate that jerking stuff, especially in the winter. I feel like I'm in less control when its constantly going in and out of this crappy low power mode. its expensive for me to buy in canada but i think ill get the vcmtuner II
I installed VCM Muzzler Gen 2 on my 2008 Odyssey EX-L in June 2015 with 60 K miles on the odometer.
I never removed the device after installation and no auto mechanic made any mention of it.
6 years later the van is at 95 K miles and I am happy with this device.
As others reported, the ECO light turns on occasionally if car is idling for a while in hot weather.
The van never shows any sign of engine overheating after installing the device ( and I reside in Central Texas ).
I replaced my 6 spark plugs recently at 95K miles and all the plugs were bone dry.
Maybe the VCM Muzzler prevents the plug fouling on my Odyssey, I am not sure.
But in other aspects such as engine vibration and hesitation I can say the van drives smoothly with all 6 cylinders producing power at all times.
I am getting about 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, pretty much the same as before VCM Muzzler installation.
And perhaps my engine mounts will last longer since there is much less vibrations with VCM Muzzler in place.
Thanks verbatim for such a clever invention.
Where did you purchase your VCM muzzler?
I added the vim muzzled ll to my 2009 Honda Odyssey several months ago. I was shocked at the positive, instant difference it made. No more random shudders and hard jerking at road speed. No difference in fuel mileage, but a very noticeable improvement in response and power! I’m very happy I installed the muzzler ll. It took less than 5 minutes. No more eco mode light coming on and off, just a very smooth drive.
How much did it cost? Thanks
Did you have two remaining wires? Do they just hang alone?
@@josegonzales815 yes they hang there I took mys and bought small zip ties and zip them up as clean as possible. I forgot why they like that .
@@mugensohc2.271 thank you!
Same
I paid $140 for it
Thanks Andrew, for an extremely concise and informative video! I've recently purchased a 2018 Pilot EX and definitely leaning towards doing this hack because I generally keep my cars until their only value is for recycling lol. We also currently own a 2003 Pilot with 253K miles and it still runs strong, although it's finally succumbing to body cancer(located in northern IL). The '03 is our local beater and as a retired ASE Master tech maintaining my own vehicles, I keep the '03 ("The Beast") in safe/sound shape. Lord willing, the '18 will serve us as well as the beast has🙏
Thank you for your excellent feedback!
Thanks for the information about your VCM experience.
We just bought a VCM tuner; appreciate your feedback on "tricking" the VCM.
2012 accord exl 90000 miles no issues no oil fouling or burning car runs like the day I bought it muzzler is the way to go !!!!👍
Best thing I ever did for my Odyssey. Mileage dropped about three MPG and the rumbling disappeared, well worth the mod.
Best review I have watched! Thank goodness for the vcm
Two more. 1. At 100k miles. th-cam.com/video/xt_L_EztFuw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=biBaLFv4MDEW7iGQ
2. At 120k miles th-cam.com/video/0vJxYxZLxlY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Hc33bZMj87HXy8mP
I had one sitting in a drawer in my desk that I meant to install but never got around to it till today! It took only a few minutes to put this on my 2011 HFP Accord and now I need to take a nice long drive to see how it functions. Thanks for posting this video!
Well I started with the Blue resistor as recommended and all seemed fine but when I came to a stop the ECO light would come on almost immediately. Ambient temps here were running around 34 C or 93 F so it's pretty toasty with high humidity so i guess that wasn't unexpected. I switched to the brown resistor to see if it works better today. Supposed to be 35 C today so it will be a good test.
@@bradstoybox8811 I'm a little late but if you get ktuner, no lights on the dash and governer delete
Andrew thank you for the long term report. I have a 2015 Odessey EX-L that left me stranded in the Upper Michigan (Hancock - Keeweenaw Peninsula) last week. I do all my own meticulous maintenance....and was shocked to see "Engine Check Light" go on at 68K miles. Worse....it's out of warranty AND closest Honda dealership was almost 100 miles away. AND the small dealership was booked 2 weeks out. The next closest dealership was Sault St Marie.
Fortunately our friends recommended Northern Driveline Transmission shop for diagnosis & repair. P0303 showed badly fouled carboned up sparkplug at #2 cylinder. Part of porcelain was missing.
Northern Driveline mechanics were superb; frankly I was relieved to find competent mechanics. The R&R the plug with Autolite ....this is GM / Ford / Dodge country.
FYI I'm an old time Shade Tree home mechanic. After a lot of research....I'm replacing all plugs and PCV and running some fuel cleaner. I'm buying this kit. My only regret was I should have bought the Toyota Sienna...
Thanks for sharing your story. I have 89K miles now, and would like to replace all of my plugs too, even with the VCM Muzzler on. However, I want to see how long it would last, and provide another update video that "I made it" to the schedule maintenance interval on OEM plugs, with the VCM off. I think that would be the conclusive test that VCM Muzzler is a great device in the long term.
Sienna comes with it's own baggage from my understanding (I hear rear bank spark plug change is like 2-3 hour affair among other things). The issue here is that while VCM is engaged, all 4 valves close shut while piston still goes up and down creating vacuum inside the chamber causing oil to be sucked into the chamber. If it is short while, then minimal oil that bypassed the piston rings will burn, BUT if VCM is engaged long enough, there will be enough oil inside the chamber to be burned eventually causing plug to foul up and at worst case, the piston ring gets damaged causing excessive oil consumption and will need to be rebuilt for a lot of $$.
in the end, VCM muzzler should be installed. Right ?
Thanks for posting this, Andrew. I also have a 2014 Odyssey, and have not experienced any of the downsides to VCM that people have talked about. But I may still want to install it for preventative measures. My van has always gone into and out of ECO mode very smoothly. Thanks again for your efforts!
It's a complicated system that one shouldn't mess with when it's functioning properly...just my 2ct.
@teknotech My experience has been the same with my 2015 Odyssey. It's been totally smooth into and out of ECO mode. Just out of curiosity, what type of engine oil do you normally use?
@@squidusn71 you're high
@@frazer9 i use olive oil in my car LOL
@@redlense4I have a 2012 Odyssey and just bought one of these to install. I have been getting a flashing engine light and is throwing codes for cylinder 1 and 3 misfires. It runs rough. Hoping this fixes it.
Nice job, well explained and the right length. Helps with my decision on buying used Hondas because I despise useless engineering designed for bogus concerns like climate change, energy not a renewable resource, etc.
I installed my yesterday on Honda accord 2008 v6 VCM muzzler 2, no problem and no more ECO light for now im happy 😀!!!
Eco light still off?
Yes!!!
@@dekideki9519 Do the radiator fans kick in? Because the muzzler alters the temperature sent to the ecu..
@@aseemagarwal6040 I got the same question , I just bought the vcmTUNER
@@rafatorres1420rt Install it and then check.. please let us know what happened
Andrew - got my VCM muzzler installed. So far no dash board codes, ECO indicator has not lit. Only symptom I had was some oil consumption and two fouled plug occurrences so if no more of that I will know the muzzler worked. Thanks for your help and support.
Glad to hear that. Keep on motoring.
What happened now?
@@aseemagarwal6040 No problems since vcm muzzler installed. Car is not driven as much since covid, but oil consumption is gone and car runs great.
@@danjoe22 And what about the cooling fans? If the muzzler give incorrect reading to the ecu the fans will not kick in or does they? Is there any overheating problem?
@@aseemagarwal6040 I have had no overheating problem. The muzzler alters the temperature sent to the ecu slightly, just enough to keep the eco from kicking in. In fact, the eco system can come on momentarily from time to time. Otherwise the cooling system still functions as normal. Even before I installed the muzzler the fans rarely, if ever kicked in. The honda v6 engine has an efficient cooling system. The fans are just a back up.
Thank you Andrew! I was about to avoid buying a Honda Pilot because of issues I've heard the VCM engine. Now it's back on the list along with the they highlander, and I like the Highlanders interior much better than the Toyota. The other issue is that the Toyota has a timing chain which I never have to worry about ideally and buying these vehicles used means that I automatically have a $1,000- $2,000 dollar service bill changing a timing belt with the Hondas have. Again thank you thank you, nice video
Thank you for providing this. A reliable Honda mechanic had suggested this to me to get rid of a meddlesome P3497 error code that periodically appears on a V6 Accord - and then, only during highway driving. I've never had a problem with engine mounts or oil consumption. It's a car frankly that we need to replace as it has now gone over 200K, but I would love to milk for a year until the car sale craziness stops.
I am always hesitant to add something to a vehicle that's not suggested by the manufacturer. However, the periodic error code has made the car unreliable for highway driving as the car performs very poorly once the engine light appears. Let the car cool, clear the code and it runs fine again. Unfortunately, the VCM Muzzler II is out of stock due to the idiocy of COVID shutdowns, so I will be trying a different brand (S-VCM controller) that also gets good reviews.
I feel much better about adding this component to my vehicle after seeing this review. People like you are a godsend to taking the time to review products for their reliability. Much appreciated!
Thank you. FYI, here is the 100k miles update. th-cam.com/video/xt_L_EztFuw/w-d-xo.html
I re-ringed under Honda care at 55K, today at 118k I have to re-ring, but this time, I have to pay $3000. The eco is definitely not worth it if I have to pay $3000 every 50k miles. I have a 2012 Odyssey. I will pay the re-ring job and will install a muzzler. Thank you so much for their video.
whats re-ring
@@lorayaht.lenore6646 replacing piston rings
I just ordered mine. We been replacing spark plugs every 6 months and having check engine light and vcm light on. hopefully this will fix old of that. Great review.
Post yours results after you installed
@@elcabezon85 changed spark plugs of course the number 3 was bad. Then put the vcm Muzzler with red resistor and the car feels better than new. Fantastic!!! Fyi make sure engine is cold or the readings wont work and you may have to play around with different resistors. I got to exited when I got it so I put the red one with Engine warm. The e o light was still coming on. So I changed it to the brown then I got an engine emissions check engine light. Finally I waited for car to be cold installed the red again and so far after a week no issues at all.
When you took it off, was the engine hot ? If so, did you get other warning codes on your dash ? I had taken mines off prior to service but the engine wasn’t cold and I have VSA and other electrical units pop up on my dash now (16 Accord)
Thank you for this video!!!!
Check out my two other updates on the VCM Muzzler. Link in the description.
I was completely unaware of my 2013 V6 Accord having VCM until it developed a bad vibration at 84,000 miles, and car would literally growl at me when sitting and idling at a stop light. The diagnosis was that the active engine mounts on it were shot and needed replacement, which is quite expensive. These active engine mounts are electrically adjusted by the computer to counteract the increased (unbalanced) engine vibration that occurs when the cylinders deactivate. Coupled with the known spark fouling and oil consumption issues, it was a no brainier for me to disable the VCM in my 2023 Ridgeline. I'll gladly trade a few less mpg's for increased reliability.
I'm at 112,000 miles. Just installed Muzzler. I've gone through two sets of spark plugs, miss fire error several times and over a quart of oil consumption between oil changes. I sure hope this helps and I'm not too late. I saw you can ruin rings. Fingers crossed. Of course, I'm beyond the time for Honda to pay due to the law suite.
I added a muzzle to my 2012 Odyssey. Prior to that, it couldn't go 100 miles without engine trouble. After I installed it (w 100 ohm resistor), I drove it 1100 miles flawlessly.
Glad to hear, mine only had two choices. I think now it comes with 5 resistors to choose from.
Believe it or not this may sound crazy but with my driving habits the vcm muzzler actually gave me better mileage in my pilot ( from 21 hwy to 26). I have a suspicion this is because the 4 cylinder mode of the pilot has a harder time cruising on the highway and maintain speed than the 6 cylinder thus my rpms sit higher and more fuel is burned.
At what milage u put the muzzler?
@@aseemagarwal6040 I had put the muzzler at 120k mileage. But, if I were you I'd put it on asap. It gets rid of oil burning problem on these engines as well as the spark plugs fouling early problem. That's how I found out about this, my sparks plugs were fouling every 3 months leading to misfires, the vcm muzzler cleared it right up.
@@TheRockacer22 Thanks for replying Man! Oil burning problem gone completely? Actually I am buying a used accord 09 with just 20k miles on it. Will be putting the Muzzler asap 🔥
This is very possible if the car has clean injectors and you use Lucas feul injectors cleaner.
also, in town there is more engine breaking w the vacuum on the 3 cylinders, meaning you have to get back on the gas a bit to coast in town as well
My 2011 Odessy started acting sluggish while I was doing 65mph, then serious vibrations, then it felt like the engine blew out and the check engine light came on. I pulled over and turned off the engine waited 5 minutes and restarted the van, it drove good for a few mins and the vibrations returned. Returned home saw the code researched it, replaced all spark plugs. Plugs 3 and 4 were extremely fouled and a small piece of the ceramic on plug 3 had broken off. I called Honda. They stated although the car only had 65k miles it was 10 years old and was not covered under the lawsuits extended warranty. I purchased the VCM Tuner and so far it’s been 1 year and the van drives great. I needed to buy a vehicle to replace my 2004 Altima SE in December of 2021. purchased a Toyota Highlander Limited the week before Christmas. While deciding on my purchase a friend mentioned how great the Honda Pilot was. I explained that my first Honda gave me VCM problems at only 65k and Honda customer support did not offer any assistance at all and I would most likely never buy another Honda. I hope Honda sees this post. Any Honda purchasers need to install a VCM Muzzler/Tuner etc. ASAP!
Agree. If it’s the J35 V6 (with automatic transmission) owners should disable the VCM.
What code was it mine doing same thing and got p3400 code
@@ashleyredden2201 it may have been PO303 or even 2 codes. Once you remove the spark plug(s) you’ll most likely see that they’re fouled.
@@BishopsPlace they are like a month ild but i dont guess that means anything
Andrew,
Thanks for posting your 5 year assessment of the Verbatim VCMUZZLER. I agree with everything you have said about the Muzzler.
I own a 2017 Ridgeline and I’ve had my VCMUZZLER from Verbatim installed since the vehicle was new. Never had to return to the dealer for warranty work so it stays installed
In my case, I hated the what I call the rumble strip vibrations when the VCM engaged. I live in Southern Florida where summers are hot and winters are warm. After trial and error with the different color resistors I found the Red resistor to work best in my vehicle.
In the last 2 years of use I’ve had 2 error messages (check emissions). I think the computer in my 2017, finds it and calls it out... Both times it has occurred right at first start up of the day. There is no affect on the vehicle as I have driven it with the error message and fixed after my return home. The fix is simple clear the code by disconnecting the positive connection of the battery, code clears and that’s it. For me it has not been a problem, even with these 2 codes.
Again thanks for sharing your post. 👍
Thanks for sharing your experience. And Ridgeline is want I want next - because of the J35 V6 and 6 speed auto combo.
Also south florida here, recent used odyssey purchase. Any issues at all besides those emissions codes? Looking to buy one asap.
I get my 09 pilot from the Honda dealer shop tomorrow morning. 4K worth of repairs. Luckily warranty I bought with it is going to cover it! I’m just out $100 deductible and plugs. Car was about dead!Dealer said 4 of my piston rings were faulty. Went through two sets of plugs. Prior. An egr valve. An alternator. Consuming 1qt of oil every 2.5 weeks! I was livid! Can’t wait to get this muzzler.
Good time to add a vcm muzzler after they fixed everything.
@@andrewwang3900 yes I agree! Love this pilot a lot! I want it for my kids. I have a 05 accord lx with 300k on it. Love my Honda’s.
Drove the 09 pilot for about a week everything seem to run a good until I guess five or six days later had a check engine light come on dealership receipt said they replace piston rings on cylinders one through four. And the AutoZone code reader says I have a misfire on cylinder two and three. What a joy!
Sorry to hear this.
@@andrewwang3900 got the car back they said they forgot to do the valve adjustment…..? Idk…. Now the wife says yesterday the car is acting weird and making noise… do you have the link for the muzzler? I ordered one but still haven’t received a tracking number! I’m freaking out a bit.
I think Honda’s are just about the most moded cars in the country, just look at all the tuners for Accord, Civic. I’m pretty sure they have seen EVERYTHING, and this device is no secret to Them. I think I am going to give it a try.
thank you for the information, planning on installing on my 2016 odyssey
Hello Andrew, thank you for this review. I purchased one for my '06 Odyssey. I must say, it has been working great for the past 3 months. My van runs smoother than before. It is very easy to install and to change the resistors as the outside temperature changes. Looking forward to another update in the near future. Thanks.
How do you buy 1 I have been looking for one for my odyssey with no luck
And what do you mean easy to change the resistors? Do you have to take it off ever winter?
@@OGGamingJedi The resistors that come with the device can be switched and they each cover certain maximum temperatures before they are not effective depending how hot or cold it is outside. The temperature outside also affects the temperature of your engine.
Later after my comment, I learned that you can attach the white resistor to the Muzzler and the ECO typically doesn't turn on, unless it's 110 degrees or more outside. If course, check your coolant from time to time since the Muzzler purposely decreases the car temperature to prevent the ECO feature to turn on.
I have installed the new s-vcm on both of my Honda 3.5
So far no oil consumption anymore 👍
What years are they?
Thanks for this video. You said it all. Honda did VCM to meet EPA standards, it's not and I say NOT good at all for a long term engine, this VCMuzzler is the best thing you can do for this engine. So if you want your engine to last and run good for a long time this thing is a must. Their are forum's out their explaining the damage VCM does and how it works. I remember back in the day when GM made a V8 that had cylinders cut out at running speed, what a pile that was.
GM still has that to this day in their vehicles and it's just as horrible as it was back in the day, I have it disabled on my 2017 Silverado and it's much better without this crap, just like it is in a Honda
I'm buying a new Ridgeline 2022,(currently own 2011) and had questions about VCM controller, and your video answered them all and some I didn't think about. Having it on for 5 years is also a good test, recommendation. Thanks.
Here is my 100,000 mile update. th-cam.com/video/xt_L_EztFuw/w-d-xo.html
Thank You Andrew!
Very helpful. Just bought my wife a 2013 Honda Pilot. She loves it. But was upset about its response. This settles it and makes me feel more comfortable attaching the muzzler. Thank you.
@@elessin7 it was all talk no action
Top notch review..Thank you so much, Sir.
Great video ! I have a 2012 with 112k miles on it is it not worth buying this late in the game ? Wife wants to drive this thing until it hits 300k miles on it I just don’t want to more harm than good.
@@ghc7910 It cant cause any harm..We have a 2010 Accord 3.5 with 134,000 and it been fouling 2 plugs every year and using at least 2 quarts between oil changes..The VCM is a bad design by Honda..For 100 I just bought 1 couple days ago..We will see what happens..If it even helps somewhat it will be well worth it.
@@tinachavez8712 so want updates after installing it on the accord?
Excellent, thanks
Thank you, that was a great video!
I just removed my VCM delete because I need to get my 2010 Accord smogged soon. I probably could've left it in, but better safe than sorry. I forgot how much worse the car runs with the VCM 'working'. Even on the freeway, the engine feels so jerky and unresponsive compared to when it's turned off.
I appreciated very good information thanks
Adding on to my 2012 Odyssey I have owned since new. I WISH I had known there was such a device made, I would have purchased LONG ago!
Not only is the ECO mode annoying (slight vibration) it does not make any difference at all in fuel efficiency for 2012s. It burns more oil than it should AND the WORSE part is the spark plugs get messed up very quickly, and the NGK IRs are VERY EXPENSIVE. Worse yet, the back 3 plugs are a HUGEMONGOUS PITA TO REMOVE.
Yes, I am over the vcm mode...
Nice review, FYI I got mine from “VCM Tuner”, they sell a certified CARB compliant one for use in Commiefornia.
S-VCM is a superior product
No experience with that product.
Thanks for the video Andrew. I think I'm going to install this on my 2012 Pilot.
I just bought 1 pilot 2 week ago with 120k miles and thinking of buying one
@@elcabezon85 Do it. Been absolutely fine for me. VCM kicked on once or twice since I've had it, but only after idling in a drive-through line or something like that. Well worth the money.
Does a mechanic shop install a vcm muzzle ?
@@emdavid30 I don't see why a mechanic shop wouldn't install one with the included instructions. It's so easy though. Took me less than 10 minutes and I'm not a mechanic. You don't even need a wrench to do it.
@@lamina666 Where did you purchase your muzzler from ? Do your eco light still come on after you install the muzzler
Great video thanx so much
Thanks man, that was so helpful.
I have a 2009 Honda Odessey the problem is the Left bank acts as a compressor no spark or valve action, they should have added a compression release.
VCM is defective technology and it saves a trivial amount of fuel anyway. I recently disabled it on my 2017 Accord and it is night and day without the overbearing buzzing and rumbling in the drivetrain. The car gets about the same City MPG as before and about 2 less MPG on the highway. I won't look back now that it's turned off.
Happy motoring..
Maybe true with earlier versions of VCM but Honda has worked out the kinks and it’s a lot more reliable than earlier generations of VCM. I agree it would be better without it.
thank you for the video!
THANKS BROTHER!
I'm doing an experiment now. I've had the muzzler installed for 6 months now and am going to see what the gas mileage is like. I installed brand new spark plugs before installing the muzzled as well.
Because it's been 6 months I forgot how the van ran without the muzzler on and I must say I really don't notice the vcm kicking in but notice the gas mileage go down (at least 2L/100k). So far my impression is just change your spark plugs every 100k and the vcm will not cause issues.
I have a 2012 Odyssey with 135k on it (brand new spark plugs went in about 5k ago).
Will see if the vcm causes pre mature wear on the spark plugs or not.
Great, keep me updated as I’m soon planning to buy a 2012 pilot
@@csx9189 I went back to the muzzler lol. Like I said before, I forgot how the vehicle ran without the muzzler but now I remember why I bought it. It didn't run bad until the van ran for awhile then on low speeds I really feel the vibration and lack is power.
Just came back from a vacation and the mileage isn't that much different to be honest. The weird thing is the mileage the computer says aren't even close. When it says 10L per 100k it's 11 or more. Not sure is that's what it would be with the vcm engaged or what? But I drove 750k and used 75L. That was combined city driving and hiway driving in the mountains.
@@fortunatedad7695 Issue isn't JUST spark plugs though. VCM causes excessive strain on motor mounts as well and the VCM motor mounts are VERY expensive. (upwards of $1k each and you need 2, front and back ones) Spark plugs get fouled because when VCM kicks in all 4 valves stays shut creating a vacuum condition in the combustion chamber sucking in the oil through the piston rings eventually causing the rings to go bad as well requiring rebuild for a lot of $$
@@strangerland9791 these issues occur in what model at How many miles? My 08 accord EX-L V6 dosent seem to have any of these issues but I think my car is in need of spark plugs because I believe even for a V6 that I should be getting a little better gas mileage...
I assumed I may have a "transmission judder feeling" but is it just the VCM doing things because I feel this even when the eco light isn't turning off or on..mainly on the freeway it's a slight jerk feeling going into 5 gear I think 🤔🤔
Also have an ‘09 Odyssey. Got completely screwed by Honda not doing a recall. First symptom was oil use and then Cats all clogged up. No misfires until after that and it was outside the BS 8 Yr time limit. Honda and the dealer fing suck as does the govt who didn’t force them to do a recall.
Recalls are only for safety items. There was already a warranty extension for this after a class action lawsuit. But the extension has expired.
@@wiimaster2847 It was a design flaw that should have been corrected. If transmission oil ports are a recall item then so is excessive oil use that leads to exhaust system clogging and unable to MOVE on the interstate. Claiming a quart of oil per 1000 miles is normal on a new car is insane. The feds let Honda get away with a BS warranty extension (who got paid off?) that captured a smaller number of vehicles instead of fixing the flaw in all the vehicles. Obviously Honda isn’t what is used to be regarding quality and honorable business practices. They should be hanging their heads in shame.
@@puterbac these items were not a recall. They were a warranty extension. Do not get the terms confused. Recalls are backed by the government and are for safety items only. Warranty extensions are what Honda does.
The warranty extension did treat the symptoms rather than the problem, but it doesn't matter for Honda. It lasts until the van is out of warranty.
Where do I purchase this muzzler? Thanks
www.odyclub.com/threads/vcmuzzler-ii-for-disabling-vcm-faqs.268778/
I’m getting a 22 Ridgeline, and I don’t know if it has VCM or not.If it does, there’s nothing I can do until the warranty is up.At that point,I’ll consider a device like this.Thank you.
2022 Ridgelines have the same J35 V6 with VCM. It would be your decision if you wish to disable the VCM or not, from the start, when the vehicle is new. VCM issues can pop up around 60k miles, like it did for me, when the engine warranty about to end.
Thanks for the vid, installing one of these on my pilot to remove the shudder at 40mph, its very annoying and has to be hard on the motor and transmission as it really has a hard time finding the right gear with light throttle etc around town.
Yeah I just ordered a VCM Tuner advanced model for that exact reason also I would much rather have a V6 engine all the time instead of 4 cylinder or even 3.
@@Consolethumbs Unfortunately this did not resolve my issue, it seems it may be some sort of transmission problem/computer issue. The VCMuzzler is great, it did exactly what it was sold to do, so I recommend getting it, just wish I could understand why my car upshifts early to fourth gear and causes the severe bog/vibration on the transmission in the front. Oh well. I will say this, gas mileage is pure trash (before and after the VCMuzzler) - around 15mpg average and maybe 20ish on the highway now instead of 23-24. Still worth it.
@@dmpdesign honda has a bulletin addreing this issue "light shudder at low RPM at around 25-35 mph"
im a used car dealer and 5 ot of 10 hondas I buy has that issue, the remedy that Honda recommends is a 3x transmission flush and reprogram they charge $450 but any decent transmission shop can do it for $250-300 as long as the transmission shifts right all other times that will most likely fix your problem. Good luck
@@yoels.
I think you are correct
Something like this started happening to my v6 2014 Accord at 30k miles and got the transmission fluid changed and it was back to smooth as new
@@dmpdesign may also be a torque converter issue. My 06 crv that I had shuddered in low rpm, and that was the problem.
I can do VCM off without having to install anything extra, I edit the firmware itself. Coolant Temperature will still be reporting correctly without alteration. The only downside is that I don't do it for free, and it requires you to have a laptop with internet and a $40 J2534 device to let me do remote ecu reflashing.
I did not know VCM until my odyssey started to vibrate at cruising speed, I installed VCM Muzzler it worked and smoothed car. But the engine mounts were already damaged and caused CVJ leaking. Fixing all the problems costs more than the car's worth. I fixed the problem by driving a new car without VCM.
How do you turn off Eco mode on a Honda Odyssey 2014 touring thank you
You can’t unfortunately. The VCM Muzzler does turn it off, by default. Meaning if VCM is off, you are not in ECO mode.
My 2008 Accord had fouled plugs on cylinders 2 and 3. Now i know why. I have a VCM TunerII on order.
That was what happened to my 2010 V6 Accord.
@@andrewwang3900 It’s common to all of Honda V6’s. I was burning a quart of oil every 5000 miles too. I did an engine flush with BG EPR and it cured the oil consumption. The VCM tuner should work out well. I also have low rpm vibration and I know it’s the VCM causing it.
Andrew send me the link to purchase the VCM Muzzler 2 TY
www.odyclub.com/threads/vcmuzzler-ii-for-disabling-vcm-faqs.268778/
Great video. Question: After installing the VCM Muzzler, you experienced no more spark plug fouling, right?
More general question: Im curious about the spark plug fouling. They seem like they're easy to change oneself--could that be cheaper than all the extra gas used when using the Muzzler?
No, not exactly. I did not have the VCM Muzzler on both 09 Odyssey and 10 Accord (V6) and both experienced the same foul spark plugs and check engine light. The VCM Muzzler is on my 2014 Odyssey since new,so no foul spark plugs, oil consumption, check engine light, vibration, or other issues. Currently at 121k+ miles. I did change out the spark plugs (at 100k miles) because of maintenance. Could you just change out the plugs at, let’s say 50-60k miles? Yes, you would avoid the fouling plugs, but may still experience the other issues cause by the VCM.
70k in 5 years? I've had my 2010 EX-L 7 months and have put 18k on it
How do I get the vcm muzzler where do I buy it at?
www.odyclub.com/threads/vcmuzzler-ii-for-disabling-vcm-faqs.268778/
May i know where you buy that muzzler? Thanks
th-cam.com/video/0vJxYxZLxlY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=qnimw_nMJDwd4fMs
It’s just a resistor in series with coolant temp sensor, it tells ecu that normal temperature has not been reached. Cost ? 50 cents plus a bit of shrink tube.
Ps 84 Ohms is what I’ve heard for the resistor.
That pretty much sums up what it is.
Thank you so much. I was wondering of the jerk when VCM kicked in as transmission problem.
Since it tricks engine temperature sensor into reading low, any effect on radiator fan?
No issue with the fan or when it kicks in. IIRC, the temp reading is about 7 degrees difference. Temp can affect the engine block (cracking). No issue for me, so far, after 75k+ miles. And I've not read anyone having that issue.
My exact question!! I assumed I may have a "transmission judder feeling" but is it just the VCM doing things because I feel this even when the eco light isn't turning off or on.. 🤔🤔
thanks for the info.
Hello Andrew, great vlog! On behalf of the many users, much appreciated. A concern though, have you or any of your followers reported a check engine light as a result of it's use? If so, what code was it and are they still driving with it on or does it go away?
I've never had a check engine light using the VCM Muzzler. I used to blue one. Some will replace resister depending on the season, such as red. My experience has been with the blue one, so no check engine light for me. I've heard/read others who experienced check engine light with the red. There are more colors now for the resisters. I only have the choice of red or blue when I got mine.
Fact check: NOT ALL V6 Hondas with automatic transmissions have VCM. For instance, in 3rd generation Odyssey (2005-10) only the EX-L and Touring models have VCM. The LX and EX do not. I'm not familiar with other generations or other models, but I know for a fact that this is true of 3rd gen Odys.
That is correct, thank you. I generalized the statement because I did not want to go that far back in Honda history.
Just great. I have a 2009 and I hate when that eco light comes on and off. I am experiencing some vibrations at 55mph which no mechanic knows why. I got to try this. Can I install this myself?
Yes, you can DIY. I have a link on the installation in the description (made by someone else.)
What you lose in mpg you gain in not having to pay for unnecessary repairs, you don't damage your engine, and you won't consume oil.
Did anyone have any issues with the cooling fan not coming on after putting the VCM muzzler on?
Same question here without any answers
No, as the cooling fan works on a sensor independent from the dashboard guage sensor.
ECT1 ( Engine Cooling Temp sensor ) is the sensor that reports to the computer, which is what the VCM muzzler " tricks" into never engaging VCM . The fans are controlled by the ECT2 which is the Engine Cooling Temp. sensor that is in the radiator, As long as both fans work properly and the ECT sensors are good, you should never have an over heat condition .
Hi Andrew,
The VCM Muzzler II is not available due to IC shortage. Looks like it won't be available until possibly til the end of the year or sometimes next year. However the Muzzler I is currently available. Do you recommend getting the version I? (believe they are $90)
I have no experience with the “original” version.
Andrew, my issue seems to be the vibration issue due to the VCM and not necessarily fouling plugs. Our 2006 Odyssey has over 150,000 miles on it but runs great. We have been experiencing increased vibration not only at idle but very noticeable at higher speeds when the ECO mode kicks in. Being that engine mounts are so expensive unless you buy aftermarket ones (and I have not seen many positive reviews for using aftermarket) I am thinking of trying this before I spend $1000+ for mounts on a car worth $3-4000 and a weekend day ripping old mounts out. My only issue is not knowing if the mounts are already ruined from the past 14 years of driving before putting this in to resolve the issue??? Recommendations?
I agree that the engine mounts may need replacing. $100 (I don't know how much VCM Muzzler cost now) is better than $1,000+. Tough decision considering the value of the van. I guess it will be your decision on how long you wish to continue driving it.
@andrew wang - it's dependent upon the coolant temperature so my question is have you ever gotten the engine hot enough where the Eco mode with the vcm still finds a way to turn on?
Yes, like sitting in bumper to bumper traffic on a 110 degree summer day. The ECO light will come on for a few seconds then turns off again. I use the blue resistor. The red resistor blocks it further. I don't feel I need that with my driving conditions. I also read that the red may trigger a check engine light, at times. Never had a check engine light with the blue resistor. I believe the VCM Muzzler now comes with 5 resistors. Mine package came with only two back then.
Will this void the manufacturer's warranty?
Probably, but they won’t know, if you remove it before service.
My 06 Honda Accord V6 doesn't have an ECO light. Plus I did not see a VCMuzzler compatible with my make/model/year. Does that mean my car is not equipped with VCM?
Yours doesn't have VCM. VCM is used in 2008-2017 accord and 2005-2007 accord hybrid.
After the dealer wanted to replace my piston rings (15 Odyssey) I started researching and found that possible the VCM has caused this. I plan on adding the VCM muzzler but is it too late and too much damage has already been done to the engine?
The damage has been done. Your best bet may be to install the VCM Muzzler after you get the ring issue fixed. Depending on your mileage, you may want to change the spark plus too. Sorry to read that the damage had already occurred.
Great video. Thanks for the info.
But based on what i found about the muzzler, it looks like all you need is a high rated resistor in the circuit. In otherwords just cut the ground and solder a resistor to save yourself... just kidding...😂😂😂
Now let's share the info of another Honda owner. Two Ridgelines since 2005, never use any VCM defeat, never burned a drop of oil, never replaced a spark plug, and cannot tell when VCM is active. I just used both trucks the way Honda designed them.
Consider buying a VCM muzzler for $90. Then driving 120,000 miles @ 6 mpg less due to VCM-M install. That's roughly 709 more gallons of gas burned, and using $3 as an average PPG, you will have spent an additional $2,128. So that's and additional $2,218 spent.
I realize some people think they are preventing problems, but with over 130,000 on two different RLs, I never had a single issue with VCM. Not one.
Great video, I have a 2011 Ridgeline without the VCM, 195k, no issues whatsoever. The reason for my comment is that for the price of a couple of gallons per mile you saved yourself an engine. Which in the long run would cost you thousands to fix/replace. Honda really F...up with this stupid design, but they don't care, as long as it is ok for the warranty period. After that it's your problem. There is an easier cheaper way to do it. All you need is a 84 to 90 ohm resistor and you solder it to the heat sensor on the engine and voila, you can do it for a couple of bucks. Feel free to research it.
Exactly, how could you save couple of litres fuel and buy a new engine.
Stupid idea, l don't know what they were thinking when designing this dam thing.
Hey sr ..can you explain how to use the resistor colors? Or why diferent resistor colors .cus some times eco light turns on ..and i like to see if changin the color resistor eco light goes away..here in nc climate is 90f degres..is sumer season..
I only have two, blue and red, I use the blue only and it has work for me. My eco light does come on occasionally, then quickly goes away as the vehicle start moving. IMO, it’s ok for the VCM to kick in once in a while, to keep parts lubricated. You can change the resistor and try it if you wish. Now, there are 5 resistors I think. The seller can probably explain it better the difference between them.
question, I just replaced the coils and plugs a month ago. Engine light came back. If i install a vcm muzzler will it help me with this issue or is it too late?
A check engine light could be many things. Use a scanner tool to read the code to see why it’s coming on. VCM Muzzler will not turn off the check engine light. It can prevent it from getting worst, if other damage had already happened.
Hi andrew, is the vcm muzzler safe for long distance driving? I travel from Sf to LA about 800-900miles round trip one or twice a month. Thanks for the video. 2012 Honda Odyssey with only 37k miles
Yes, most of my road trips are 800+ miles one way. No issue. You will loose a few mpg because all 6 cylinders are on all the time.
The VCM was designed exactly for long distance driving to save gas mileage so why do you consider this modification?? Curious 🤔
My van has white smoke and rough idol. Now it hardly runs. The VCM light came on with a triangle next to it. It’s the head gasket blown or can I install the muzzled and will it run again?
Perhaps a mechanic should take a look. I don't think the VCM Muzzler will help at this point.
I would like to know where you got the muzzler at I just bought a 2012 Honda pilot I would like to get one to disable the VCM
www.odyclub.com/threads/vcmuzzler-ii-for-disabling-vcm-faqs.268778/
I'm new to the VCM issues, but have researched extensively now that I've bought a 2011 Odyssey. 2 things that I can surmise from my research (mostly on Odyclub)
1) city driving, the loss in fuel mileage is almost undetected. At most 1 mpg.
2) EVERYONE who puts on a vcm controller of some sort is so happy they did it.
Again, I'm new to this, but Andrew, did you try the different plugs as the temps began to rise in your area? I believe that's what they're for.
I just purchased the VCMTunerII. It's basically the same thing, but has a dial to adjust for variances in temps instead of changing plugs. I'll be installing that this weekend, but I'm quite sure I'll be happy with it.
Thanks for the video! Nice description of what it is and how it helps things. Let us know after 100,000 miles?
1. Yes 1-2 MPG difference in the city, so not a big deal at all. On the hwy, the difference is greater as I travel 800+ miles, all hwy, one way, often. So that does add up. But I'm ok with "lossing" the MPG. 2. Yes, everyone I know, read about, is happy with the VCM Muzzler (any version). I did not try the different resistors. Mine came with two. I'm happy with the "standard one." The ECO light still comes on once in a while, during the bloody hot summers, in traffic. But goes away once the car starts moving. ECO light does not always mean VCM is on. I'm ok with this also as I see it perhaps help to lubricate some of the parts, by being in VCM mode, once in a long while. Yes, I plan to do another review at 100K+ miles because that's when the spark plus are due. I think that will be the true test (the conclusion) of the VCM Muzzler test.
Hello Mr. Wang thank you for this very informative video. ONE MAJOR QUESTION Sir. Does installing the VCM Muffler VOID the Honda Factory warranty? I just purchased a 2019 Pilot EX for the Mrs and she totally loves it. She does complain about something odd when she drives it which brought me to this video after two month of research. So again does the VCM Muffler VOID Hondas Factory Warranty? As we keep our cars very long term I purchased the Honda Extended Warranty. So you all know I myself and still driving an 02 Accord LX 2.4L with 5 speed manual tranny. Why? She is the best car I have Ever owned, although as of a year ago mechanical things are just now breaking down in her and I'm replacing these parts as they appear.
Anything added that's not OEM (or OEM replacement) can void warranty. However, if that is a concern, just unplug it before you take it back to the dealership for warranty work.
How late is too late to install the SVCM/muzzler? My Pilot is at 94,500mi, gave me code P0303 two days ago. Changed cylinder 3 plug and coil, now it’s fine again.
The fact that you had to replace 3 plugs may mean some damage has been done. I would replace the other 3 plugs too so you have a fresh start sort of speaking. I would still get a VCM Muzzzler to prevent anymore damage.
It amazes me how this kind of technology causes more problems than what its intended purpose is. Pretty sure people would prefer reliability over 1 or 2 mpg.
You can thank the EPA for that. The EPA establishes fuel efficiency requirements as well as emissions requirements, and in order to meet them, the automakers have to engineer this stuff into the engines. Without the EPA's interference, you could have the reliability everyone really wants.
I still don't understand what ppls issue is with a VCM,.. the only downfall of the tech is fouling spark plugs and a judder feeling like a Transmission slipping feel?
I assumed I may have a "transmission judder feeling" but is it just the VCM doing things because I feel this even when the eco light isn't turning off or on.. 🤔🤔
@@freedompioneer4311 "only". Do you know what causes the fouling? Oil getting into the combustion chamber due to the vacuum effect of the piston moving with the valves closed. And that leads to piston ring failure, which causes the engine to burn oil. That should not happen on 60k mile engines.
@@freedompioneer4311 When a Honda is burning oil excessively it does more than just fouls the plugs. It can cause the ignition coils to fail, gum up the valves, and ruins the catalytic converters prematurely. And with the VCM kicking in an out , it causes the engine to shake excessively which then ruins the engine mounts. And then when you eventually have to re-ring the motor, that's a $3000 job.
@@daveclark8337 well I think I need the cars piston rings replaced on top of other things gaskets sensors, actually have a plug that's stripped and stuck, kinda looks like the previous owner had troubles getting the plug to seat. But i havent tried removing it because of this and how difficult it might be to reinstall a new plug that i do have but is it worth it?
These cars in good condition are worth alot depending on condition they get great gas and they have something that supposedly shuts the VCM off completely so it stops wanting to kick down to 3 cylinders?
Hello! Thanks for this post. Where can I get one of these muzzlers? Do you know if there are newer versions out there or different brands that are street legal and okay to leave on for smog checks? I live in california. Thanks in advance 🙏
You can get them by contacting the person (Verbatim) that made it www.odyclub.com/threads/vcm-a-better-way-to-disable.234113/ There are a few different versions out there now. But I have no experience with it.
Latest VCM-tuner 2 is made compliant for California
Thanks' Andrew.. I wish i slaw your video sooner.. I have a 2005 odyssey; 123K miles. It has premature oil burning issue no cylinder 1; 2; 3. 2 engine mounts failures and spark plug fouling. Where can is purchase the VCM muzzler II? Please let me know. I want to extend the life of my engine..
www.odyclub.com/threads/vcm-a-better-way-to-disable.234113/. Also check to make sure your engine has VCM. Back then IIRC, only the higher trim models have them.
So it consumes more gasoline if I install the VCM muzzler?
Yes, because your V6 will be running on all 6 cylinders, all the time.