A camshaft phaser — also known as a cam phaser, VVT actuator, or VANOS adjuster (in BMW terminology) — is a hydraulic vane-type actuator mounted on the end of the camshaft. It continuously adjusts the camshaft’s angular position relative to the crankshaft by directing pressurized engine oil through an oil control valve (OCV) solenoid, all commanded in real time by the engine control unit (ECU/DME).
As engine speed, load, and temperature change, the ECU modulates the oil pressure signal to the OCV. This routes oil into either the advance or retard chambers inside the phaser’s vane mechanism, rotating the camshaft forward or backward by up to 40–60 crankshaft degrees.
This enables the engine to achieve:
Strong low-speed torque by optimizing valve overlap at idle and light loads.
High peak power by advancing intake timing at full throttle.
Better fuel economy through optimized valve timing during cruising.
Lower cold-start emissions by quickly raising exhaust temperature for faster catalyst light-off.
To better understand how related VVT components are manufactured with precision, you can also watch our VVT Camshaft Sprocket Production Line Video, which provides a clear view of the full production and testing process.
Variable Valve Timing systems are named differently across vehicle brands, but most camshaft phasers work by changing the relationship between the camshaft and the timing drive. The table below compares common VVT, VANOS, VTC and camshaft adjuster systems by brand, helping buyers identify the correct camshaft phaser, VVT adjuster or camshaft timing sprocket by engine family, OE number and camshaft position.
| Brand | System Name | Phaser / Adjuster Design | Typical Engine Families | Common OE Reference Examples | Selection Notes |
| BMW | VANOS / Double VANOS | Hydraulic camshaft phasing system; Double VANOS controls intake and exhaust cam timing | N51, N52, N54, N55, S55, selected B-series engines | 11367583207(INT) / 11367583208(EXH) | BMW VANOS phasers are often position-specific. Confirm engine code, intake/exhaust side and OE number before ordering. |
| Mercedes-Benz | Camshaft Adjuster | Hydraulic camshaft adjuster integrated with the timing chain sprocket | M271, M274 and selected petrol engine applications | A2710503347(INT) / A2710503447(EXH) | OE numbers vary strongly by engine generation and camshaft side. M271 references should not be treated as universal for all Mercedes engines. |
| Jaguar / Land Rover | VVT Phaser / Camshaft Sprocket | Hydraulic vane-type camshaft timing sprocket | AJ20P4 / PT204 / AJ200P 2.0L Petrol Ingenium | LR091759(INT) | Commonly used on Jaguar and Land Rover 2.0L petrol Ingenium engines. Confirm inlet/exhaust position and vehicle application. |
| Audi / Volkswagen | Camshaft Adjuster | Hydraulic camshaft phasing system, depending on EA engine generation | EA888 Gen 1 / Gen 2 / Gen 3 1.8T and 2.0T applications | 06F109088J(EXH) | Some applications use intake-side adjustment only, while others use more advanced intake/exhaust timing control. Always check the full OE suffix. |
| Hyundai / Kia | CVVT Assembly / CVVD-related Timing Components | CVVT uses hydraulic camshaft phasing; CVVD is a separate variable valve duration system | Theta II, Nu, Gamma and selected Smartstream engines | 24350-2B600(INT) | CVVT and CVVD are not the same system. Confirm engine code, camshaft position and part type before replacement. |
All parts listed above are available or can be sourced through us. Please contact us with your VIN for exact compatibility.
•Single-source supplier across brands — BMW, Benz, Land Rover, Audi, and Hyundai camshaft phasers from one manufacturer, simplifying procurement and reducing shipping costs for mixed-brand orders.
•OEM-matched specifications — all phasers machined to match OEM vane clearances, oil-port diameters, and phase authority ranges; 100% pressure-tested before despatch.
•Verified cross-references — part numbers confirmed against OEM fitment databases before order confirmation; no misship surprises.
•Flexible MOQ — suitable for distributors, motor factors, independent specialists, and regional wholesalers; volume pricing tiers available.
•15-day lead time — 50% deposit to confirm production slot; balance before shipment. Express production available for urgent requirements.
•Technical support — Huizhan's engineering team provides fitment confirmation, cross-reference resolution, and application guidance for complex multi-engine queries.
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