BMW crankcase ventilation valve, also known as PCV valve, is an essential component that is responsible for managing and regulating the flow of gases in the engine. It controls the buildup of pressure inside the engine, ensures the oil stays clean, and prevents harmful gases from escaping into the environment.
Even with such precision design and engineering, the BMW crankcase ventilation valve can fail, causing serious vehicle performance issues. The purpose of this article is to discuss the causes and signs of a BMW crankcase ventilation valve failure and how to fix it.
Causes of BMW Crankcase Ventilation Valve Failure
There are several reasons why a BMW crankcase ventilation valve might fail. Some of the most common causes include:
Clogging
Over time, the valve can become clogged with carbon buildup, which can restrict the flow of gases in the engine. This carbon buildup can occur due to several reasons, such as a faulty air filter or poor-quality fuel. When the valve is clogged, the pressure inside the engine increases, which can cause oil leaks, reduced engine power, and increased fuel consumption.
Wear and Tear
The valve is subject to constant exposure to heat and pressure, which can cause it to deteriorate and eventually fail. The valve has a diaphragm that opens and closes, allowing the gases to flow through the engine. Over time, the diaphragm can wear out, leading to failure. Additionally, the valve’s housing can also crack or become brittle due to constant exposure to heat and pressure, leading to leaks and reduced performance.
Oil Sludge
The BMW crankcase ventilation valve relies on oil mist to lubricate and cool the engine. However, this oil can accumulate and form sludge, which can restrict the flow of gases and lead to failure. Oil sludge can occur due to several reasons, such as using poor-quality oil or not changing the oil regularly. When the valve is clogged with oil sludge, the pressure inside the engine increases, leading to reduced performance.
Electrical Failure
The valve has an electrical component that can fail due to corrosion, wear and tear, or damage. This electrical component is responsible for opening and closing the diaphragm, allowing the gases to flow through the engine. If the electrical component fails, the valve will not function correctly.
PCV Hose Failure
The PCV hose is responsible for carrying the gases from the engine to the valve. If the PCV hose is damaged or cracked, it can cause air leaks, leading to reduced engine power. Additionally, if the PCV hose is blocked, it can cause the valve to malfunction.
Signs of a BMW crankcase ventilation valve failure
- Rough idle: If your BMW is idling roughly or experiencing a misfire, it may be due to a faulty PCV valve. A bad PCV valve can cause a vacuum leak in the engine that causes rough idling.
- Oil leaks: A faulty PCV valve can cause oil to leak from your BMW’s engine. This is because the valve helps regulate the pressure inside the crankcase, and when it fails, pressure can build up, causing oil to escape through seals and gaskets.
- Engine performance issues: If your BMW’s engine is not performing as well as it used to, it may be due to a bad PCV valve. A faulty valve can cause the engine to run rich, which can lead to decreased power, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel efficiency.
- Check Engine Light: A faulty PCV valve can cause the Check Engine Light to turn on. This is because the valve is part of your BMW’s emissions system, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause excess emissions to be released into the atmosphere.
Fixing a BMW Crankcase Ventilation Valve Failure
Depending on the severity of the issue, there are several ways to fix a BMW crankcase ventilation valve failure. You can clean the valve, fix electrical components, or replace the entire component.
Get Help From The Mechanics At Paladin Automotive
If you are experiencing any of the signs of a BMW crankcase ventilation valve failure or any other automotive issues, don’t hesitate to get help from the experienced mechanics at Paladin Automotive. We offer various automotive services, including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely on the road. Our team is dedicated to providing quality service to drivers in Spring Valley, Summerlin, and Las Vegas, NV.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to address any automotive issues. Trust our experts at Paladin Automotive to get your BMW back to optimal performance. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or for more information on our services.