PCV - time for a change?

[coopns]

When do you change your PCV valve? I have a 02 grand caravan - never done and 95 Tauri never done. I like to do a preventative maintenance, especially if fairly reasonable and even more so if I can do it myself.

Thanks.

 

[mechtech2]

They can last a LONG time nowadays.
I think most Mfrs. have to warranty them for 100,000 miles, as part of the emissions system.
But usually they are easy to yank and inspect.
Carb cleaner can get them like new again.
If you do get a replacement, get a factory one, or the most expensive one available at the parts store. Quality and metering are important, and only a few bucks more for many thousands of miles of life.

 

[raaizin]

I changed 1 on my '96 explorer(purchased new) at 185K. It still rattled but had some oil buildup on it.

 

[Quest]

If it's metal body PCV valve, I cleaned it every year and then replace it every 4~5 yrs. If it's plastic PCV valve, I replace it every 2 ~3yrs (with emissions test reports as a guideline) w/o cleaning at all.

I typically cover 20,000kms/yr.

 

[01rangerxl]

You may be able to get it changed for free depending on the miles. I recall seeing in the owner's manual for my Ranger that the first PCV valve replacement was complementary at 60,000 miles. That said, the majority of them are only about $2 and take minutes to replace, so it isn't like replacing one will hurt your wallet or force you to give up a whole day. If you have a couple bucks and a few minutes to spare, why not?

PS - Honda four cylinder owners...check your valve every oil change or so. For whatever reason they seem to plug up fast on these cars.

 

[mazduh30]

I check mine at least once a year with the engine is running. I just buy them if they need to be replaced.

 

[speedyswede]

My Volvo doesn't really have a PCV valve, per say. It has an easily serviceable 'flame trap' which gets cleaned @ every OCI. If it becomes clogged, its bye-bye engine seals...hello oil leaks.