As vehicles age, individual components within an engine wear down a little bit every time it’s being driven. When fluid is routed through hoses and lines, various types of gaskets are responsible for keeping things leak free. Unfortunately, these gaskets deteriorate and can eventually fail.
One of the more common reasons for an engine oil leak is a faulty valve cover gasket. Keep reading to learn about this gasket, understand the signs of a bad valve cover gasket, and see what the average replacement cost would be.
What is a Valve Cover Gasket?
An internal combustion engine contains a cylinder block with a specific number of cylinders on top of it. The cylinder head is positioned over the cylinders and assists with the entire combustion process. The flow of fuel and air into the cylinders is made possible because of the passages which exist within the cylinder head.
Above the cylinder head, there is something called a valve cover which is usually made from either metal or plastic material. In between the cylinder head and valve cover, there is another component called the valve cover gasket. The gasket serves as a surface sealant between these two components.
Meanwhile, the gasket traps the oil inside the engine so that it will keep circulating in there and lubricating the various engine components. Depending on your specific engine layout, you may have two valve cover gaskets.
Valve Cover Gasket Material Types
Cork Gaskets
Cork gaskets used to be the go-to choice for many vehicles. They’re made from a natural material (yup, actual cork!) that offers a nice balance of compression and durability. As a result, these gaskets can effectively seal your valve cover, preventing leaks.
However, there is one major drawback to cork gaskets. Over time, they can become brittle and break down, which means you’ll need to replace them periodically. But if you’re looking for an inexpensive, eco-friendly option, cork gaskets might be just what you need.
Rubber Gaskets
Rubber gaskets have become more popular in recent years, especially for newer vehicles. They’re made from a variety of synthetic rubber compounds, making them resistant to heat and oil. This durability means rubber gaskets can last longer than their cork counterparts, saving you time and money on replacements.
Additionally, rubber gaskets are typically easier to install, since they are more pliable.
Silicone Gaskets
Silicone gaskets are made from a blend of silicone and other materials, making them both flexible and resistant to high temperatures. As a result, silicone gaskets can handle the heat and pressure within your engine better than other materials.
Plus, they generally maintain their shape well, giving you a consistently reliable seal. While silicone gaskets may be a bit pricier than the other options, the added performance and longevity can make them a worthwhile investment.
Read Also: Blown Head Gasket vs Cracked Engine Block
Signs of a Bad Valve Cover Gasket
When you first notice that you have a bad valve cover gasket, you still have time to do something about it before it gets worse. Here are 6 common signs of a leaking valve cover gasket to help you confirm the source of the leak.
1) Burning Smell
The valve cover is shielding so much compressed oil that is just aching to get out. One little crack in the valve cover gasket will cause oil to leak through and fall onto other components of the engine.
There could be oil falling onto the exhaust pipes or cylinder head, causing the oil to burn excessively. When you add engine oil to a very hot surface, you’re going to notice a burning smell.
2) Dirty Valve Cover
When you go to give your vehicle an oil change, pay attention to the condition of the valve cover. If it is dirty, then it means oil is leaking out of the valve cover gasket.
Replace the gasket first and then change the oil. Either that or have a professional auto serviceperson do the oil change and gasket replacement job for you.
3) Low Engine Oil
When you have an oil leak in your valve cover gasket, it means there will be less oil in your engine. This will cause more friction from the moving components of your engine, which generates more heat in there.
When there is too much heat generated, it will cause the engine to overheat. This could possibly damage your engine components severely to the point where they cannot be repaired.
4) Engine Misfire
A faulty valve cover gasket can also lead to engine misfire. When oil leaks from the valve cover, it might find its way into the spark plug wells, causing a short circuit and leading to misfires. This condition is harmful to your engine as it may produce unburned fuel, affecting your vehicle’s reliability and performance.
5) Rough Idling
A rough idle can also be a symptom of a valve cover gasket leak. If the gasket is damaged, it can cause a vacuum leak. This issue affects the engine’s air-fuel mixture, leading to poor combustion and rough idling.
6) Check Engine Light
When you have a low amount of oil in your engine, the Check Engine warning light will illuminate on your dashboard. You may also have a separate oil warning light on your dashboard that will turn on as well. This should be one of the first symptoms that you notice.
Take the warning seriously and fix the leak before your oil level falls to a dangerously low level and causes severe engine damage.
See Also: Symptoms of an Oil Pan Gasket Leak
Valve Cover Gasket Replacement Cost
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On average, the replacement cost of a valve cover gasket will be somewhere between $200 and $400. The parts cost will typically be between $50 and $70 while the labor costs will be anywhere from $150 to $300.
That said, some vehicle have valve cover gaskets that can cost upwards for $100 or due to a complex engine configuration, labor costs can be much higher.
But in most cases, this is not a very expensive part to replace in your vehicle. The extent of the expense will be based on the hourly rate of your mechanic and the quality (and quantity) of your parts.
If you can choose a professional mechanic with a lower hourly rate that works quickly, then you can pay a smaller rate for your labor costs.
The Replacement Process
Diagnosis and Preparation
If you feel comfortable replacing your valve cover gasket by yourself, it’s important to accurately diagnose the valve cover gasket leak. Confirm that at least one of the symptoms mentioned above (ie: external oil leaks, low engine oil level, burning smell after acceleration, etc.) actually exist.
If these symptoms are present, then it’s time to gather your tools and prepare for the replacement. Make sure to have brake cleaner, a torque wrench, and a new gasket on hand before beginning.
Note: The process described here is just a general replacement procedure. The actual process for your year, make, and model may differ so it’s recommended to follow the instructions in a vehicle-specific service manual or YouTube video.
Removing the Old Gasket
Locate the valve cover and its bolts. These might be covered by other parts or engine components, so take care in disassembling any necessary pieces. Be gentle while removing the valve cover bolts, so you don’t strip them. Gently pry the valve cover from the gasket and set it aside.
With the valve cover removed, you can now see the old valve cover gasket. Use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape it off the engine. Be careful to avoid damaging the engine surface, as this could cause further issues down the road.
Next, clean the surfaces where the new gasket will be placed. Apply brake cleaner to a clean cloth and thoroughly wipe the area to ensure proper adhesion of the new gasket.
Installing the New Gasket
Now it’s time to install the new gasket. First, align it correctly with the engine surface. Apply a small amount of RTV sealant to areas that may require extra sealing, such as corners or spots where leaks previously occurred. Press the new gasket onto the engine surface, ensuring proper placement and adhesion.
Place the valve cover back onto the new gasket, taking care to align bolt holes and other components correctly. Thread the valve cover bolts by hand to minimize the risk of cross-threading or damage. Once they’re in place, use your torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
At this point, you’ve successfully replaced your valve cover gasket! However, if you lack confidence in your abilities or feel that the procedure might be too complex for your vehicle, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.
Causes of Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
Worn or Damaged Gaskets
By far the number one cause of valve cover gasket leaks is worn or damaged gasket. The gasket is typically made of rubber or plastic material, which can break down or crack over time. This can lead to oil leaks in the area of the valve cover.
If you’re experiencing oil leaks from your valve cover area, chances are your gasket has seen better days. If left unattended, these leaks can result in oil entering areas where it shouldn’t, causing further issues.
High Engine Temperature and Heat Exposure
Excessive heat is another factor that contributes to gasket deterioration. High engine temperatures and prolonged heat exposure can cause the rubber or plastic material in the gaskets to break down more quickly. Over time, this results in a damaged or cracked gasket that won’t properly seal the valve cover, leading to leaks.
Vibration
Vibration is another culprit for gasket leaks. Your engine is constantly generating vibrations, which can gradually loosen or damage the valve cover gasket as wall as many other components in your engine. This constant shaking and jostling inside your vehicle’s engine can cause the gasket to degrade, and eventually, oil may seep out from the valve cover.
Irregular Oil Changes
Neglecting to perform regular oil changes may also contribute to gasket leaks. Fresh, clean oil contains additives that help maintain the lifespan and effectiveness of gaskets. However, when you don’t change your oil as recommended, these additives break down, and the oil becomes less effective at protecting the gasket. Consequently, the life of the gasket is shortened, increasing the likelihood of leaks.
Myths vs Facts of Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
Myth: A dirty valve cover is the main reason for a leak.
Fact: While a dirty valve cover can contribute to a leak, it’s not the primary cause. Leaks are usually caused by a worn-out or damaged gasket, allowing oil to escape. Make sure to keep your valve cover clean, but more importantly, pay attention to the condition of the gasket.
Myth: Oil leakage only affects the exterior of the engine.
Fact: Actually, oil leaks can lead to more than just a mess under the hood. When the oil level in your engine drops, it can cause low oil pressure, which can ultimately result in engine damage. So, it’s important to address any leaks as soon as possible.
Myth: Valve cover gasket leaks are a rare occurrence.
Fact: Gasket leaks are quite common! In fact, they are one of the most frequently reported engine issues. Don’t be surprised if you face this problem at some point.
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How much should I expect to pay to a mechanic to replace front & back valve cover gaskets on a 2008 Ford Edge?
As a rough guess, it could be around $400 given the accessibility of the rear bank on that engine. It would be best to check with a couple local shops for a more accurate estimate. You should be able to call around for a quick estimate, and you can also ask about their availability to do the work while you’re in there. If the spark plugs are due, it might be wise to replace those at the same time.
thank you for the article
How much for a 2017 Audi for valve cover that’s leaking replacement.
Which model Audi? Probably around $300 but call a local shop for more info.
How much to would it cost to get Valve cover ,gasket , replaced on Hyundai 2009 GLS V6 3.3 L .
This model has issues with Valve cover Leaks , and Oil leaking onto Alternator. There have been 2 recalls. The last one was for Valve cover oil leak in August 2022. If oil continuous to leak then it destroys the alternator .What is the warranty cover for a Recall.
How much to replace a 2013 BMW i128 series valve cover gasket? I feel like I was quoted a lot. They said $600+ for the part and with labor it was $1900.
How much would it cost to replace the valve cover gasket of a 2015 BMW 535i?
Check with your local shops for an accurate estimate. It will likely cost at least $400.
How much it should cost to replace oil filter and gasket valve for Honda accord – 2014?
Shouldn’t be much. Probably $40 total if you’re doing it yourself.
Does sometime material off valve cover causes damage of the valve cover ?
What do you estimate to replace a head gasket on a 2003 Lexus ES 300?
I don’t know for sure, but probably in the $1000-2000 range at an independent shop. I would call around a couple local places for an accurate estimate. It will also depend on what other work needs to be done while they’re in there.
My husband has a 2005 Acura TL… how much to replace the oil gasket cover? AND, can it be seen when he goes for an oil change. We have a mechanic that we LOVE and Acura always seems to be VERY expensive to do ANY job. Slight smell after the engine has run for a while. Doesn’t seem to be losing much oil. Can it wait a few months?
That car is probably expensive to work on because it has a transverse V6, which means the engine is crammed in the engine bay sideways. This makes it hard to reach a lot of basic components, such as the spark plugs on the rear bank. This is common on FWD cars, but since V6 engines are larger, they are often harder to work on.
Valve cover gaskets are typically not too expensive to replace but you’ll have to call a few shops in your area to confirm. Tell them your year, make and model like you’ve done here.
How much for a 2000 Honda Civic ex ?
Shouldn’t be much, around $200-300 I would guess. Check with some of your local shops for a more accurate estimate.
I had a code P0300. Tune up is needed. Comes to find out, oil on spark plugs. Now I need valve cover gaskets replacement, oil clean up on 03 Mitsubishi Montero Sport. How much should a mechanic charge & how long should it take? I will buy all parts needed
Generally mechanics prefer it if you don’t buy the parts first. If you buy your own parts and have them install it, chances are they won’t be able to warranty the work, plus you run the risk of buying the incorrect parts.
Expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $500 depending on what type of clean up work needs to be done.
How much for a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica? They said it’ll cost me $900 for a valve cover gasket kit replacement.
I’d call around a couple shops in your area for accurate quotes. The dealership will usually be the most expensive.
My corolla 2013 model doesnt smoke and it doenst have power so when idlling it has a bubbling sound.oil doesnt last because every 2 or 3 days i must pour 1 litre of oil .even petrol burns fast .i checked the plugs thats when i saw that they are oily .must i do the whole engine or only the head
I don’t know. Sounds like you might have a head gasket leak. An inspection after you take the head off should tell you more.
How much would it cost for Value cover replacement for a 2013 Chevy Cruz
Are you replacing the whole cover or just the gasket? For just the gasket, $200-400. For the cover itself add $100.
1998 Nissan Frontier 4 cyl 2.4 L – was $170 parts and labor – Huntsville
How much do you think it would cost to replace a valve cover gasket on a 2008 BMW x5 4.8I
I’m not sure. You could call a couple shops in your area for an accurate quote.
Hello, what would be an estimate for a Honda Odyssey 2008 model?
How much can I expect to pay for a KIA Optima 2011 EX automatic 2.4 L
How much to replace the valve gasket cover on a 2018 Range Rover Sport. I was quoted $3800 at dealership. They say leak is minor. Can this wait or best to do right away? Thank you
That’s a lot. Was the $3800 for just the valve cover gasket? I am not familiar with Range Rovers so I don’t know if their maintenance is typically that much more expensive than standard makes like Honda and Toyota.
In general, a valve cover gasket can wait. You’ll leak oil which could make a mess, so you might want to put some cardboard down when you park it. Keep an eye on your oil to make sure the level doesn’t drop too low. If it starts to stink like burning oil, you might be leaking onto the exhaust manifold. This is dangerous as the oil could ignite and start a fire.
You might want to try getting a quote from an independent shop. A valve cover gasket should only be a couple hundred dollars or so to replace.
Hi Karen, that seems extremely high. I live in an expensive city, and I took my car into a mechanic that is not known for being low-cost — and the estimate was $242.00, including labor. I think it’s best to replace your gasket cover, don’t wait (but find someone else to do it!). You don’t want to drive a car with a burning smell. Also a worn valve gasket cover will reduce the oil running through your engine….and could
ultimately cause engine failure.
how much to replace the valve seals and valve cover gaskets on a 1999 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 5.7 ltr V8
How difficult would it be to replace your valve cover gasket yourself?
It’s pretty easy if you’re comfortable changing your own brakes. Just make sure to follow a repair manual so you get the tightening sequence and torque specs right.
1999 Toyota Corolla 225xxxx
What would be a fair parts and labor price for a nechanic to replace valve cover gaskets on a 1986 corvette. Vehicle has only 40 thousand miles. Thank you.
You’re probably looking at somewhere in the $200-500 range.