I had never driven an S2000 in vtec range until after breakin period of my recently purchased 04. After lurking in the background here on s2ki reading posts trying to educate myself on the S2000, I couldn't wait to experience vtec. Anyway, I don't know if I'm getting used to it after 1800 miles or what, but it seems that vtec isn't as pronounced as it was right after breakin. it also seems to kick in later like closer to 7000 rpm??? Can something cause vtec to operate with less efficiency?? Sure seems like it used to kick harder and come on earlier.

 

Not only does vtec engagement depend on the operating temprature of the car, but also on the oil pressure. Maybe the engagement point being delayed is because of a drop in oil pressure ?

As for not being so pronounced...my guesses are that either you are getting used to the car, or more likely that now the car has been broken in, the sub-6000rpm torque has increased as the car has loosened up a bit, and therefore the difference in torque isn't quite so great.

 

VTEC also can engage earlier depending on throttle position.