PCV Valve

PCV Valve Service You Can Trust

t's easy to overlook something you can't see. However, when it comes to your vehicle's health, the positive crank ventilation (PCV) valve is something you shouldn't ignore.


The PCV valve may be small, but it impacts everything from fuel efficiency to emission control. When the valve fails, your vehicle loses its performance and direction. That's why Hi-Tech Auto Specialists takes PCV valve service seriously. Our mechanics look beyond the symptoms and focus on system-wide health.

PCV Valve service offered at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists in IL

What Does the PCV Valve Do?

The PCV valve is a plastic component tucked away in your vehicle's engine. In an internal combustion engine, every piston stroke creates pressure, but not all of that pressure stays where it belongs.


Some of this pressure escapes past the piston rings into the crankcase, resulting in what we call blow-by gases. These gases can contaminate the engine oil and reduce overall engine life. So, your vehicle needs a component to tackle them.


The PCV valve's job is to reroute these crankcase gases back into the combustion chamber. The chamber burns these gases instead of letting them build up in the engine. The valve limits airflow when the engine is idling or under light load.


However, when the vehicle accelerates, the valve opens wider, allowing more gases to pass through. The dynamic response of the valve keeps the system working in harmony with the engine's performance needs.


At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we understand how important this balance is. Our team looks for faults in the PCV valve and the surrounding components to get the full picture. A clogged or malfunctioning valve can result in oil leaks or damage to gaskets and seals. Regular service with Hi-Tech Auto Specialists means these risks are managed promptly.


What Is Included in PCV Valve Maintenance?

PCV valve maintenance typically includes the following steps.


  • Valve Assembly Inspection: When debris deposits build up, they can restrict valve operation and prevent its proper opening and closing. A stuck valve disrupts engine ventilation. As a result, unwanted fumes built up in the crankcase. So, it's important to inspect the valve assembly for valve operation malfunction.
  • Crankcase Pressure Inspection: When there is too much pressure in the engine, it can push oil past the seals and the gaskets. This disruption results in lower oil circulation. At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, our mechanics check the crankcase pressure to see if the gas recirculation is as it should be. They also check for optimal pressure regulation and provide solutions in case of malfunctions.
  • Crankcase Ventilation Maintenance: As the vehicle operates, debris and carbon buildup can clog the ventilation parts. So, these components are also inspected for issues.

PCV valve maintenance also involves a broader view of the system's impact on engine efficiency. When the PCV valve functions correctly, it reduces strain on the piston rings and supports optimal combustion. Plus, your vehicle meets emission standards through better pollution prevention.


Hi-Tech Auto Specialists provides reliable PCV valve maintenance services, which include inspection of all major components. More importantly, our mechanics offer proactive diagnostics to catch issues early.


Signs That Your Vehicle's PCV Valve Needs Replacement


Typically, a PCV valve has an average lifespan of 20,000 to 50,000 miles. With regular maintenance from Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, you can extend the valve's life. Here are some signs that it may be time for your vehicle's PCV valve to be replaced.


  • Unstable or shaky engine upon stopping
  • Oil leaks due to pressure buildup
  • Sluggish acceleration
  • Increased oil consumption
  • Strong fuel or oil smell caused by the trapping of unwanted fumes in the crankcase


In addition, you might hear hissing or whistling sounds. These usually occur due to air escaping through a cracked hose or valve. While unusual sounds don't always point to PCV valve failure, they're almost always a sign of concern. So, you should bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, where we will diagnose the issue and provide required repairs and replacements.

Lower the Pressure, Increase the Performance With Hi-Tech Auto Specialists 


As we've established, crankcase pressure is a no-no for your vehicle's engine and emissions. If you notice any of the warning signs or simply need PCV valve routine maintenance services, bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists at 9740 Southwest Hwy, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 or 10139 Roosevelt Rd., Westchester, IL 60154, or call us at 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855. Since 1986, we have helped drivers like you keep their vehicles in top shape without overspending on repairs.