PCV valve replacement question

[vincenzo masiello]

My question is about my 2008 grand prix V-6 3800.

In my last few oil changes I started getting a loss of about one qt every oil change that I, initially, blamed the 135k miles for. Mechanics and other more experienced people agreed that the loss I’m having is normal for the age of the car and the mileage of the engine until one day I heard on a radio show a caller asking about a similar problem where he was answered by suggesting checking the PCV valve and that was my first time to hear about this valve.

There are two very cheap OEM options for my car, a $6 valve, or a $17 kit that includes a spring and a couple of o-rings and some kind of cover.

My concern is not about “how to” because a replacement job is cheap and easy, but I just don’t have enough info and motivation to mess with something that I have never touched before and I’m surprised that there aren’t many videos online that talk about a stuck valve (specifically for my make/model/year).

There are many forums out there where people talk about the need for replacing this valve periodically or cleaning it and they are all talking about how that depends on the specific car/engine.

Should I replace it or not?

Thank you

Topic

[Josh]

The PCV valve is a wear item just like a thermostat, timing belt, accessory drive belt, etc. Yes it should be replaced and I would strongly suggest getting the kit so that the entire assembly is changed out.

[vincenzo masiello]

What could go wrong with the MAP sensor that is right over it? I saw warnings in other places. Did anyone here do it and can give some advice if it’s worth it?

[Alex]

Pcv is recommended replacement it can cause issues with emmission parts make them worn and if they go bad your over heating issues.

[vincenzo masiello]

[quote=”jonsey1886″ post=180807]The PCV valve is a wear item just like a thermostat, timing belt, accessory drive belt, etc. Yes it should be replaced and I would strongly suggest getting the kit so that the entire assembly is changed out.[/quote]

I ordered the “kit” which basically has the spring and o-rings and the black plastic hand looking casing that I will probably not use.

[vincenzo masiello]

[quote=”Packard93″ post=180864]Pcv is recommended replacement it can cause issues with emmission parts make them worn and if they go bad your over heating issues.[/quote]

when the PCV valve is bad (clogged, stuck, ….) a P0172 or other lean code is usually set. I don’t have any code but I never replaced it and now 135K. Do I really have to? and will it make a difference in oil consumption, power, or drive-ability?

Did anyone do this simple job and felt a change in motor operation?

I already ordered it and will receive it in a couple of days, but i’m baffled by the fact that there isn’t much info or videos out there about this thing (it feels like classified info as compared with other jobs that are not as easy) and it looks like the people who replaced it, only did so because the had a code set or some serious problem and that’s why i started this thread, but haven’t got a convincing reply yet

[Mike]

No sense in doing the job half way. Replace everything the kit comes with.

[vincenzo masiello]

[quote=”Evil-i” post=180887]No sense in doing the job half way. Replace everything the kit comes with.[/quote]

I’m replacing it as soon as i get it. That’s not the point now.

Did you, personally replace it without an obvious problem? did you feel a difference afterward? what difference? can you describe please?

[cj1]

Normally PCV is changed are a preventive measure. No obvious problem is being addressed and you will not feel any difference afterward.
Only the satisfaction knowing that PCV is working 100% keeping crankcase oil clean of diluting fuel from piston blow by and reducing crank case pressure so as not to damage engine seals.

If your mechanic confirms normal engine oil consumption and not a stuck PCV, he’s probably right.

[Author]

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