Welcome to 2CarPros.
First, the vehicle is still covered under the power-train warranty (10 years/100,000 miles) so if something is wrong with the VVT, it really should go back to the dealer.
Now, the noise you are hearing could be a belt driven accessory. What I suggest is to remove the serpentine belt and see if the noise goes away. Only run the engine a few seconds to see if the sound is gone. If it is, then inspect all belt driven accessories for play in bearings, a rough feeling when turning them, or anything that could indicate a problem.
I have attached two pictures for you to see. They show how to remove tension from the serpentine belt so it can be removed. There are two different designs. You will need to determine which of the diagrams your vehicle has.
Try that and let me know the results. Remember, when the belt is removed, only run the engine for a very short period of time, just enough to see if the noise is gone.
Do this and let me know the results.
Take care,
Joe
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Monday, May 13th, 2019 AT 7:23 PM