A PCV valve failure in a BMW can be disastrous for your car. The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve is the part of the car that regulates the number of crankcase gases entering your BWM system. This problem shouldn’t be treated with kid gloves, as it can result in more problems. Let’s take a closer look.

How the PCV Valve Works in a BMW

In 1964, a new feature was added to some cars following a bill that was passed into law. This law required that unburned fuel from cars should be captured and recycled, and so the PCV valve was created to do just this. This unit is common in all BMWs now.

The PCV valve system simply makes the recycling and reuse of crank gases possible. This occurs when the one-way PCV valve refreshes the air in the engine crankcase by recycling it.

The ultimate goal of the PCV valve system is to keep the car and the environment clean. Any fault with the PCV valve can easily lead to damage to the engine.

Causes of PCV Valve Failure in BMW

The most effective way to avoid PCV failure in your BMW is to be aware of the causes. Here are some of the most common causes of PCV valve failure we see in BMWs:

• Time: Use of your BMW will lead to wear and tear. The aging of your BMW is one of the most common causes of PCV valve failure. The more you drive your BMW, the more it is exposed to temperature and pressure. Prolonged exposure to both can make the PCV valve swell and crack.
• Clogged PCV valve: If the PCV valve gets clogged, it can lead to its failure. Most times, this results in the PCV valve getting stuck in a closed position.
• Installation of faulty PCV valve: On a very rare occasion, your BMW’s manufacturing facility may have mistakenly installed a faulty PCV valve in your BMW. In a situation like this, a replacement should be made as soon as possible.

Signs of a PCV Valve Failure in a BMW

If you notice any of the signs below then the chances that your BMW is having a PCV valve failure is high:

• Dark smoke: Your car shouldn’t be emitting smoke at all. However when it does, and the smoke is black, then your BMW might just be having a failing PCV valve.
• Leaking oil: One of the signs that your BMW PCV valve is failing is when your car is leaking oil.
• Jerking: If your BMW jerks when you start it or are about to drive it, that could be an indicator that your PCV valve is failing.
• Excess consumption of fuel: When your BMW begins to consume much more fuel than it usually does, it could mean that the PCV valve is failing.
• Increased pressure in the engine: The failing of the PCV valve invariably means the discontinuation of its function. Once the crank gases build up, the engine invariably experiences an increase in pressure.
• Engine sensor: Most BMWs have an engine sensor. When the sensor detects a problem, the majority of the time, it indicates that there is a problem with the PCV valve.

Why a PCV Valve Failure Should be Fixed As Soon as Detected

No car problem should be neglected, because all car problems can deteriorate into bigger ones that are more costly. BMWs are sleek cars and, no doubt, give you extremely-high value for your money. You should care for it with proper maintenance and service when necessary.

One of the biggest threats of a failing PCV valve in a BMW is engine damage. The life of a car is its engine. To prevent engine failure, it is imperative to see our trustworthy mechanics when necessary to proper diagnose the root problem and get it repaired.

Tanner Motors: Your Leading Repair Shop in Phoenix

At Tanner Motors, we have been providing excellent services to car owners since 1945. Being experts in the repairs of BMW, we understand how much your car means to you, and that is why we go out of our way to give you the best of services. Don’t take your BMW to any shadetree mechanic. Choose us today, because you deserve the best! We are conveniently located for car owners in and around the Phoenix, AZ area. Call us today to set up an appointment!

* BMW Steering Wheel image credit goes to: Nickbeer.