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Are you surprised your BMW’s performance is not up to the mark? One hidden villain could be the crankcase ventilation valve or the CCV or PCV valve. Despite its size, this component is very important for the smooth running of your engine. When it does not work, it results in more problems that could waste your time and money. Let’s find out what the crankcase ventilation valve is, how you know it has failed, and what you can do about it for your BMW to function properly.
What Does the Crankcase Ventilation Valve Do?
The crankcase ventilation valve is one of the engine’s emission control valves. Its function is to control the emission of gases formed within the crankcase and recycle those gases back into the combustion chamber, where they are burnt. With the malfunction of this valve, those gases would go out into the atmosphere, polluting it and wasting fuel efficiency. A properly functioning PCV also avoids increased pressure in the engine that causes strains that can compromise the seals and other components. This valve is always open in BMWs, particularly in models fitted with turbocharged engines, and may degrade with time.
How to Detect a Bad Crankcase Ventilation Valve
- Increased Oil Consumption: A clear indication that you need the crankcase ventilation valve is when the vehicle starts using more oil than it used to. A faulty valve may enable the wrong quantities of oil to be drawn into the intake manifold or combustion chamber. This leads to your engine consuming more oil than it should, which is a big issue. If your BMW’s oil levels are low between changes or you are constantly adding more, this may be caused by a faulty PCV.
- Check Engine Light Activation: Many contemporary automobiles are fitted with probes that detect conditions in the engine and exhaust. If the crankcase ventilation valve is faulty, it may result in either wrong pressure or wrong airflow, which normally causes the check engine light to come on. Diagnostic scans can show codes such as emission-related, fuel mixture, or air pressure problems, all of which point toward the PCV valve.
- Oil Leaks and Gasket Damage: A bad PCV valve can cause high pressure within the crankcase to build up. This added pressure may force oil out of seals and gaskets, creating visible signs of oil leaks around the engine compartment.
- Rough Idling: A faulty valve can interfere with the correct mixture of air and fuel in your engine. If the valve is jammed in the open position, the system will draw in too much air and lead to a lean fuel condition. On the other hand, if it stays closed, the airflow cannot enter where it needs to, and a too-rich mixture results. Either condition may result in rough running at idle or hesitation while accelerating.
Steps to Fix the Issue
If you suspect your car has this crankcase ventilation valve problem, you must bring it to the shop for a check-up and repair. When the valve is either clogged or damaged, the only option is to replace it. The cost of a new PCV is often cheaper than having to cater for the damage that comes from failing to address the issue. Similarly, if the hoses are clogged or damaged, they can be cleaned or replaced with a valve so the air can pass properly.
Even though some individuals may wish to change their PCV, it is best to leave this to a professional mechanic, especially if dealing with BMW. They are capable of determining the right cause and solution to the problem.
Trust Protech Automotive Services for BMW Repair Services
Whether you have problems with the crankcase 
ventilation valve or want professional help, you should turn to Protech Automotive Services in Johnston, RI. We have been in the BMW repair and maintenance business for years, making us the best place to understand your vehicle’s needs. Our personnel know the BMW models, and we utilize state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose the vehicle.
At our company, we aim to ensure that you have the best repair experience without any stress. You can visit our shop if you reside in the surrounding area, such as North Providence, Warwick, Smithfield, East Greenwich, and Cranston, RI. Call or message us today, and let us ensure your BMW always runs like new!
* Grey BMW X3 Car image credit goes to: photosvit.