How To: Changing Your Car’s PCV Valve

The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve is an important part of many cars’ emissions control systems. This valve, located in its L-shaped housing can usually be found sitting within a rubber grommet located on your vehicle’s valve cover. It can become clogged with sludge that forms from contaminants in exhaust fumes or it can become stuck in its wide-open position. When one of these things happen, your vehicle will usually have rough idle and the check engine light might come on.

Is it Easy to Replace a PCV Valve?

Replacing a PCV valve is a very easy repair to do. Often this task requires no tools at all, especially if the valve is held in place with only the rubber grommet. For PCV valves that screw into the base, you can use a crescent or adjustable wrench to hold the base to unscrew the valve if needed.

Have Your Parts Ready

Before replacing your PCV valve, you will want to have a replacement valve available, which can be purchased from UWrenchIt in Norcross, GA. You should also inspect the rubber hose and rubber grommet to make sure they are not brittle, soft, clogged or displaying signs of deterioration. Replace if needed along with any rusty hose clamps.

Replacing Your PCV Valve

Locate the PCV valve.
Loosen hose clamp (if present).
Pull the L-shaped housing off the valve.
Remove the valve.
Inspect the hose for clogs.
Replace hose, clamp or grommet (if needed).
Securely insert or screw in replacement valve if it is threaded taking care not to over-tighten.
Reconnect rubber hose to the PCV valve.
Start your engine and inspect for any leaks around the PCV valve.

Being able to make simple repairs on your vehicles with parts found at UWrenchIt can save you money in the long run.