So my insurance located and paid for a recycled engine for my 2008 cobalt SS. This engine has 91,000 miles on it. When I picked it up from the shop that installed it, they were just about to close. I took the car around the block a few times to test it when the CEL came on solid. I took it back and one of the mechanics scanned the code and said something about a 'cam-sensor' malfunction or something along those lines. He cleared the code and told me to take it back to them if it came back on.

Well sure enough, it came back on tonight.

The problem is that they are on vacation next week and won't be able to get it in until the following week to check it more thoroughly. The mechanic said that it would be fine to drive on until then as long as the light doesn't start flashing. Does that sound like an okay thing to do? What other options do I have? I'm trying to sell my other car and would rather not drive it.

 

Whats the code?

 

They tried saying mine was a cam sensor but it might just be the MAF sensor & harness, that's all mine was and I told the dealership from the first time I took it in and I had to go to a different chevy dealership to get it done properly.

 

Probly vvt solenoids

 

This. It's easy to fix.

 

It appears to have been a vvt solenoid. I replaced it an it seems to be fixed for now. Thanks everyone.

 

Never mind, lights back on. I'm thinking it's the other vvt solenoid or the wiring harness. I forget what the OBD tool said last time.

 

Yes do both at the same time. One is gray and one is black , one for intake one for exhaust.

 

Why did you drop in a motor with 91k on it?

 

insurance companies are awesome...

 

That's why you have to know a good mechanic; no way that would have went into my car.

 

True.

 

FWIW, you can check the VVT solenoids with an ohmmeter. I can't remember the resistance values off the top of my head but Google will help you there. The same solenoids are used on quite a few GM cars so the data should be easy to find. My CEL came on with that code (sorry, can't remember the code either) and I used my ohmmeter to verify. At the time the car was under warranty so it saved me like $80. I could sell you one of mine from my cracked block motor if you like (the new motor came with new solenoids).

 

I just did the one that was triggering for me. Solved the problem and however much it is for another solenoid. It's not labor intensive and I can deal with having a code if the other one goes out, Amazon is speedy.

 

What happened to the car for the insurance company to get you a used motor

 

My car has 93,000 on it, so it's actually better for me lol.

 

I hit the oil pan and didn't realize it. Engine locked up while driving because oil drained out. Ignored low oil light. It was a boneheaded decision on my part, but you make bad mistakes when you're in a hurry. I live, I learn.

 

Was it covered by your collision or comprehensive insurance?

 

Comprehensive I think.

 

They only owe to put the vehicle back to pre-loss condition. He had 93k on his motor and they found one with 91k.