What Does PCV Valve Failure Mean in BMWs?

BMW is a top of the line, quality vehicle. No matter what make you decide on, you know that you will be getting a vehicle that is reliable. You will be able to count on your BMW for many years to come because the level of performance sets a standard that leaves other brands trying to keep up. In addition to a higher performance standard, each model of BMW has a sleek design that are easily identifiable. You and your BMW will stand out no matter what model you choose.

Like any vehicle, though, as your BMW ages some parts may be prone to failure. One part that you will want to keep an eye on to avoid future problems is the PCV valve.

What is the PCV Valve

The PCV valve is also known as the the positive crankcase ventilation valve. As its name suggests, the PCV valve is responsible for venting the crankcase. It is a key part of the emission processes because it will send partially burned gases back to the combustion chamber so they can be used again. The main goal of the PCV valve is to direct extra gases back to be used for a second time, reducing your gas mileage as well as helping keep those fumes out of the environment.

The PCV valve has many benefits for your BMW. The first is that it eliminates crankcase emissions. This means that there is going to be fewer emissions coming out of your BMW because it is being used again. Another benefit is that it will keep the system dry and free of moisture. This is because the system requires for there to be a constant flow of air in order for the gases to be moved back to the combustion chamber. A third benefit is that the oil in your BMW will have an extended life because the PCV valve will help keep the sludge that will damage the engine to a minimum.

The last and maybe the most important benefit of the PCV valve is that it will protect the engine against any backfires. The PCV valve will close so that the backfire flames do not reach the crankcase. This is important because if the flames were to reach the crankcase, the fumes could ignite and cause serious damages.

Signs of PCV Valve Failure

There are a few signs that you can look for when it comes to identifying if your PCV valve is failing. The first way the PCV valve could fail is if it were to get clogged or stuck in the closed position. If this were to occur then your BMW would alert you in a couple different ways. The engine would leak oil, sludge would begin to build up in the engine, and the engine could surge. These three reactions all point to the PCV valve being stuck in the closed position or clogged.

A second way the PCV valve could fail is going to be if it gets stuck in the open position or a hose gets disconnected. Both of these things would cause a vacuum leak. A few of these symptoms include the engine misfiring while it is idle, increased oil consumption, and presence of oil in the PCV valve. The check engine light will also come on if the PCV valve remains in the open position.

Fixing the PCV Valve

If you have discovered one of these symptoms, then it is time to take your BMW into a professional for servicing. European Motor Cars, which is conveniently accessible from the Spring Valley, Summerlin, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Las Vegas, NV areas, is a place where you will be able to find highly trained and reliable technicians. All of our technicians will take pride in servicing your BMW quickly and affordably. You will receive dealership-like service, without having to pay their high prices. We will work with you throughout the entire process and ensure that you are happy with the steps we will need to to take in order to repair your faulty PCV valve.

At our location, we have all the proper tools and equipment needed to assess and address any issue that may come up in your BMW or any other European vehicle. Our knowledgeable technicians will take the time necessary to fix the problem and get you and your BMW back out on the road as soon as possible.

* BMW M2 image credit goes to: teddyleung.