I think this belongs Under The Hood...

Anyways, when I start up the car, it runs normal. Driving around town it's fine, but the first time I go into VTEC it doesn't engage as hard as it should, it kinda sputters up and after about 5-10 seconds it engages like it used to and the pull is noticably stronger than it was while sputtering.

The higher cam kicks in around 5600-5800, and the engine gets a lot louder, but more power doesn't kick in for 5-10 seconds, it sounds like it's trying to engage but doesn't.

For about a week it was only when first going into VTEC while driving the car (always let it warm up and stay on 3rd bar for a while), changed the oil, and then it was fine. After about 3-4 weeks, started happening again. Since then it has gotten worse and sputters through VTEC for more than just the first time.

I hope someone has insights as this has me stumped...

 

In my experience, disconecting and re-seating the electrical connecter to the MAP sensor (the thingy on top of the throttle body) helped tremendously. Make sure the electrical contacts are clean. Also, double-check your oil level.

 

Oil level is fine, I'll try the MAP sensor...if the connections aren't clean, any suggestions on what to clean with?

 

Rubbing alcohol? just a guess. They have a MAF spray cleaner out now that might be safe to use if its really dirty.

 

Maybe a burnt clutch slipping or it can be your gears.. just a guess..

 

You can try resetting the ECU also.

It's above the driver's left knee. Pull the 2nd 7.5 amp from the top right corner for about 1min. Then plug it back in. Turn on that car and let it warm up for a few mins. Then give it a whirl. I hope it works.

 

There is some info here:
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=413018
Read it all the way to xvipers comment about the service bulletin.
It sounds like what you describe.

Let us know what you find.

 

That sounds like exactly it...definitely will check that out and report tomorrow.

 

I guess it was the MAP sensor, ziptied it, and it ran perfectly, VTEC feels better than it has felt in a while!

Thanks!

 

check your vtec solenoid. I heard those can rarely go bad.