Replacing Variocam Pads - How much Improvement
 

Today, I'm having the variocam pads replaced on both banks because the cam shaft deviations are out of spec.

What should I expect in terms of improvement.

For example, if they are -6.5 now, should I expect something close to 0 after the new pads are installed?

I think you may also notice some increases in MPG and possibly power as well. Somebody did those pads themselves on here and was able to get it close to 0, and with a performance increase too if I remember correctly. I will try to find the thread.

-6.5 is only slightly out of spec. Pads are essentially a maintenance item which will bring you closer to zero but don't expect any noticeable changes. Inspect your old pads when they are removed. Big ruts and/or chips? I went from 9 and 6 to about 3 when I changed my pads, but I only did the top ones. :)

Depends on how badly the old pads are worn.

Vario-cam pads.
"What should I expect in terms of improvement. ?"
The risk of broken pieces of plastic pads in the oil system is a significant issue.
If you get only a slight improvement on the cam deviation - suspect other parts -for example the actuator unit/solenoid, 4&5 chain wear and theoretically IMSB.
A useful related question is what else to do while the cam covers are off ?

Model year? Miles?

01S, 125000 miles; deviation values have been increasing by about 1 degree per year for the last four years