how are you testing this theory?
drive around in 2nd gear, under 4500rpm and accel a bit
watch ETC, SENSOR SW CHECK
does "VCT" have a black dot next to it?
if so, the PFC is turning the relay on
if VCT doesn't come on - ie: solenoid is shagged etc, the PFC wont know this
as in, as far as the PFC knows, the relay is ON once it has black dot
if the oil line was say unplugged, the PFC wouldnt know this