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BMWs are outstanding vehicles that are reliable, comfortable, and fun to drive. To keep these eye-catching vehicles running smoothly, they need regular maintenance performed. If maintenance is ignored, there are many issues you can experience. One of these is crankcase ventilation valve failure.

The crankcase ventilation valve is a component located in the positive crankcase ventilation system. The system is also referred to as the PCV system. The system eliminates gases out of the crankcase. The crankcase is located at the bottom of the engine.

Once the gases are removed from the crankcase, they are sent to the intake manifold. When the gases reach the manifold, they are burned. Before the PCV system, unburned fuel could leak from the engine. This can lead to engine damage and environmental pollution.

Symptoms of Crankcase Ventilation Valve Malfunction

If your BMW experiences a crankcase ventilation valve malfunction, the gases will get stuck in the engine system. These trapped gases can cause damage, possibly leading to complete engine failure.

There are two parts in the positive crankcase ventilation system that can fail. They are the PCV filter and the crankcase ventilation valve. Your BMW will have issues and will not function as designed by the engineers.

Symptoms of Crankcase Ventilation Valve Failure

If the crankcase ventilation valve fails, it will get stuck in either the closed or open position. Below are some common symptoms you may experience:

• Engine Idles Roughly: A defective valve will not supply the appropriate amount of air between the crankcase and intake manifold. This improper air flow can lead to rough idling.
• Misfires: When the engine is not getting the proper air to fuel ratio, it will either run rich or lean. This will cause the engine to misfire.
• BMW is Burning Oil: A faulty crankcase ventilation valve can trigger excessive oil consumption. It can also produce a leak. If the valve has failed, you may notice a puddle of oil under your car.
• Engine Does Not Want to Start: When the crankcase ventilation valve fails, the gasses are trapped. This can taint the engine and produce a buildup of sludge. This contamination can make it difficult to start the engine.
• Sluggish Performance: Gasses building up in the engine can cause your BMW to perform poorly.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: When the crankcase ventilation valve fails, it can contaminate the breather element filter. This leads to an increased buildup of pressure which leads to increased fuel consumption.
• Smoke from the Exhaust: If the crankcase ventilation valve fails, it can allow oil to enter the combustion chamber. When the oil is burned, smoke is produced and pushed out of the exhaust pipe.
• Failed Emissions Test: There are many reasons your BMW may fail an emissions test. If yours has failed, it could be due to a faulty PCV Valve.
• Running Rich or Lean: When the valve fails it can either let in too much air or not enough. This will cause your BMW to run rich or lean.
• Illuminated Engine Warning Light: The engine warning indicator can be triggered by several factors. If your light is on, have a diagnostic scan performed right away.

When to Service your BMW’s Crankcase Ventilation Valve

At Autowerks, we provide complete BMW services. The best way to prevent crankcase ventilation valve failure is by staying current on your regular maintenance. The crankcase ventilation valve should be replaced on average after 30,000 miles but before 60,000. Our expert mechanics can also check the valve when you come in for maintenance.

Book Your Service Today

To schedule your BMW’s regular maintenance or require crankcase ventilation valve replacement, call us today to book your appointment. You can reach us on 979-690-3032 or use our online service appointment form.

At Autowerks, we are here to help you and keep you on the road. You do not have to go to a dealership to have your BMW serviced. We can perform the same services at a fraction of the cost. We are conveniently located to drivers in Brenham, Bryan, Caldwell, Madisonville, Navasota, and College Station, TX. Give us a call today to set up your appointment. We will get you back on the road, driving with confidence.