The PCV valve is a basic yet incredibly useful component found in all modern cars, including your BMW. However, most drivers don’t know about its existence, let alone how to tell if it’s malfunctioning or what to do if it fails. Let’s talk about your BMW’s PCV valve—how it works, why it fails, and what to do about it.
PCV Valve 101
PCV is an acronym for Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve. It was created in the 1960s as a universal solution to a problem called blow-by gases. These blow-by gases are unburnt fuel fumes released from the engine. They are highly toxic—so toxic, in fact, that if left unchecked inside your engine, they can eat away at its components. The PCV valve was invented as a way to ventilate these fumes from your car.
You can find your PCV valve right under your hood; it is a black piece with a red handle. It works by sucking the blow-by gases away from the crankcase through the intake manifold and sending them back to the engine, where they can be properly burned. Think of your PCV as a fuel recycler for your car.
When your PCV valve fails, it allows these gases to flow freely into the crankcase, where they can eat away at your BMW’s components and cause severe damage over time.
When To Replace The PCV Valve
Now that we’ve covered what the PCV valve is and what happens if it fails, let’s talk about the maintenance and repairs it requires. Though it’s a serious issue, the PCV valve itself rarely fails; usually, it’s the PCV filter that develops issues and hinders the PCV valve’s function. The filter is essential to your PCV valve as it collects the vast majority of toxins in blow-by gases, but like any other filter, it can become clogged over time.
According to your BMW user manual, your PCV valve filter should be replaced every 60,000 miles or as needed, depending on your driving habits. On the other hand, your PCV valve itself does not have a set lifespan and should only be replaced if it fails.
Symptoms Of A Clogged PCV Valve
A failing PCV valve can manifest through many different symptoms and warning signs, such as increased internal engine pressure, gasket failure, leaking engine oil, black smoke, engine surges, wetness or dripping under the hood, frequent misfires, and increased oil consumption.
The best way to avoid a clogged PCV valve filter is by routinely performing maintenance and repairs. However, if you do notice one or more of these signs in your BMW, bring it over to us at Heynneman European, and we’ll get your filter replaced and your car back on the road.
Can I Replace My PCV Valve At Home?
While there are simple mechanical procedures that can be performed at home, repairing or replacing the PCV valve isn’t one of them. This process requires specialized equipment and professional training, along with a proper replacement part. On top of that, the PCV valve is a vital component in your BMW that protects other parts from damage and exposure, so it isn’t worth risking just to save a few bucks.
PCV Valve Maintenance And Repair At Heynneman European
At Heynneman European, we understand that your BMW—and all European luxury cars—requires higher-quality service than what standard shops can provide. This is why our ASE-certified mechanics only use the latest available factory-grade tools and equipment and have decades of experience working with European vehicles.
When it comes to dealing with PCV valve failure, we are the place to go. BMW owners in Corte, Fairfax, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, Larkspur, Kentfield, and San Rafael, CA, all trust us with the servicing of their vehicles and don’t need to worry about where to go for PCV valve failure. Whether it’s PCV valve failure or standard maintenance services, at Heynneman European, we’re here to help.
You can make an appointment at 415-499-1234 or visit our shop in San Rafael, California. We will get you back on the road safely and efficiently.
