PCV valve replacement?

[Shel_B]

2011 Camry with 4-cyl 2AR-FE engine: The car has 97,250 miles on the clock and I'm thinking of changing the PCV valve on the next or subsequent oil change, but I'm not sure if it's needed. The car uses no oil, has no oil leeks or seeps, gets excellent highway mileage (37+ mpg last time I checked), doesn't smoke (drink, or stay out late), and, in short, shows no symptoms, as I know them to be) of a valve that needs replacement. It's a big deal to do an R&R on the valve, so it's not something that can easily be checked. If I'm going to check it, I'm going to replace it.

I'd like opinions on whether the valve, after 12 years and about 100,000 miles should be replaced as preventive maintenance. I'm inclined to go in that direction, but as noted, it's a big deal to do the job. OTOH, I'd rather not deal with it as an unexpected, or rather, unplanned, repair. Thoughts?

 

[kschachn]

FWIW, I would never go 12 years and 100,000 miles without replacing the PCV valve.

 

[cptbarkey]

You are probably due for spark plugs and a serpentine belt, coolant change, brake fluid, and maybe a few more things too.

 

[hrv]

2011 Camry with 4-cyl 2AR-FE engine: The car has 97,250 miles on the clock and I'm thinking of changing the PCV valve on the next or subsequent oil change, but I'm not sure if it's needed. The car uses no oil, has no oil leeks or seeps, gets excellent highway mileage (37+ mpg last time I checked), doesn't smoke (drink, or stay out late), and, in short, shows no symptoms, as I know them to be) of a valve that needs replacement. It's a big deal to do an R&R on the valve, so it's not something that can easily be checked. If I'm going to check it, I'm going to replace it.

I'd like opinions on whether the valve, after 12 years and about 100,000 miles should be replaced as preventive maintenance. I'm inclined to go in that direction, but as noted, it's a big deal to do the job. OTOH, I'd rather not deal with it as an unexpected, or rather, unplanned, repair. Thoughts?

I would have replaced it many miles and years ago.. Its a NO brainer...Just do it...

 

[We're Metals]

Classic Shel_B thread.

 

[Shel_B]

You are probably due for spark plugs and a serpentine belt, coolant change, brake fluid, and maybe a few more things too.

All of that, except brake fluid, has been done within the past year or so. I'll do the brake fluid when I do the brakes ... getting close ... although it was changed at 55,000 miles. The last check I did on the fluid showed that it was fine. Checked for moisture and copper.

 

[Shel_B]

Classic Shel_B thread.

Nice to be thought of in such a positive manner ... thanks. Totally unexpected from you.

Yes, I do like to ask questions ... "the more you know, the better your luck."

Your response is classic in it's own, inimitable fashion. Never one to disappoint.

 

[eagle14]

Shel,

I will probably draw fire for this, but I am like you in this regard.

I have a 2013 Avalon hybrid with ~92k on it, and like your Camry it has not acquired any bad or mechanically immoral habits ;-). The PCV valve is a PITA to get to under the engine. Were it just on top of the valve cover, that would be different.

If it were my car, I would (and will) wait for the next grouping of service items and bundle it into the group. It may be some of the routine items will help defray the labor costs.

HTH

 

[DriveHard]

A PCV valve is a check valve (DEAD SIMPLE). As long as it is clean, and the spring isn't broken, it should work just fine. You upkeep with oil changes and maintain your vehicle, I wouldn't replace it just for the fun of it.

 

[The Critic]

2011 Camry with 4-cyl 2AR-FE engine: The car has 97,250 miles on the clock and I'm thinking of changing the PCV valve on the next or subsequent oil change, but I'm not sure if it's needed. The car uses no oil, has no oil leeks or seeps, gets excellent highway mileage (37+ mpg last time I checked), doesn't smoke (drink, or stay out late), and, in short, shows no symptoms, as I know them to be) of a valve that needs replacement. It's a big deal to do an R&R on the valve, so it's not something that can easily be checked. If I'm going to check it, I'm going to replace it.

I'd like opinions on whether the valve, after 12 years and about 100,000 miles should be replaced as preventive maintenance. I'm inclined to go in that direction, but as noted, it's a big deal to do the job. OTOH, I'd rather not deal with it as an unexpected, or rather, unplanned, repair. Thoughts?

Waste of money, not needed for modern cars unless the engine family is known for PCV failures (e.g. some Euros).

This isn't 1970 anymore.

 

[JHZR2]

It’s a valid thought. Some parts are a pain, and some cars need those or other parts changed more often than others…

To me the telling thing would be what under the VC looks like, and under the oil cap itself. Any residues? How yellow/gold vs silver and black (assuming the oil fill cap is black plastic)?

Our odyssey had some residues, so I changed the PCV. It’s easy and close, and seemed worth it. My other cars, not so much, they tend to stay clean and loose.

I’d look at it when the opportunity seems right, or some other condition warrants the check. And then you’re right… just swap it!

 

[Shel_B]

It’s a valid thought. Some parts are a pain, and some cars need those or other parts changed more often than others…

To me the telling thing would be what under the VC looks like, and under the oil cap itself. Any residues? How yellow/gold vs silver and black (assuming the oil fill cap is black plastic)?

Our odyssey had some residues, so I changed the PCV. It’s easy and close, and seemed worth it. My other cars, not so much, they tend to stay clean and loose.

I’d look at it when the opportunity seems right, or some other condition warrants the check. And then you’re right… just swap it!

The cap looks brand new with absolutely no residue. I've never pulled the valve cover off ... hasn't seemed to be a need as there are no leaks, seeps, or weeps.

 

[JHZR2]

The cap looks brand new with absolutely no residue. I've never pulled the valve cover off ... hasn't seemed to be a need as there are no leaks, seeps, or weeps.

I really mean to just peep in. Some engines you can see more through the fill hole than others…

 

[Shel_B]

I really mean to just peep in. Some engines you can see more through the fill hole than others…

Oh ... I'll take a peek using a flashlight and see what can be seen. Tks!

 

[vavavroom]

The PCV valve is inconveniently located behind and under the intake manifold on that engine. If you don't have huge hands and are bendy and patient you can get it out without major injuries. It may take a few hours.

I hope my Mini will never need a new fuel filter. To get to it, I'd have to remove the ragtop, the trunk liner and trim, and all interior components behind the front seats. It's probably an 8-hour job!

 

[AZjeff]

On Rock Auto they run from $5.29 to $7.34 and OEM MSRP is $12.44, based on cost it's a no-brainer to replace but being reportedly not an easy job you hate to pull out a perfectly functioning part. Will you do the job it or have it done? I say get spendy, buy the OEM part and replace it yourself. Might be a nice afternoon spent with your baby.

 

[Highboy]

Don’t forget to change out the PCV hose out also. I can guarantee it’s dry rotted and cracked. I had to change both on the 06 and 08 scion TC’s with a 2.4. In a recent car care nut video that standard procedure for him now when he touches that.

 

[Shel_B]

Don’t forget to change out the PCV hose out also. I can guarantee it’s dry rotted and cracked. I had to change both on the 06 and 08 scion TC’s with a 2.4. In a recent car care nut video that standard procedure for him now when he touches that.

That's good advice, and when the valve is changed I plan to replace all hoses and fittings as well.

 

[Shel_B]

On Rock Auto they run from $5.29 to $7.34 and OEM MSRP is $12.44, based on cost it's a no-brainer to replace but being reportedly not an easy job you hate to pull out a perfectly functioning part. Will you do the job it or have it done? I say get spendy, buy the OEM part and replace it yourself. Might be a nice afternoon spent with your baby.

Only an OEM part for this job.

Unless Lyle allows me use of his lift, I'll have one of the techs that I use do the job. At my stage in life, crawling around on a concrete floor is not a nice afternoon, although I do appreciate the sentiment and will console myself with fond memories of such activities in my more able-bodied youth.

 

[We're Metals]

Nice to be thought of in such a positive manner ... thanks. Totally unexpected from you.

Yes, I do like to ask questions ... "the more you know, the better your luck."

Your response is classic in it's own, inimitable fashion. Never one to disappoint.

Next week: "The air in my tires may be original, How can I ensure to refresh the air in my tires?"