Expert Mechanic Reveals Hidden Cause of Car Oil Leaks: The Overlooked PCV Valve

A recent video by automotive expert Ángel Gaitan highlights a frequently encountered yet often misdiagnosed issue in vehicles: oil appearing in unexpected areas of the engine. Gaitan, a mechanic from GT Automoción and Training Tech Academy, explains that such leaks often stem from a malfunctioning PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve.In the video, Gaitan demonstrates a 2015 van with 90,000 kilometers that exhibited oil leakage. He meticulously points out the affected area, clarifying that the PCV valve, also known as a decanter, is responsible for separating oil from the gases generated within the engine's crankcase. This process is crucial for environmental reasons and engine health, as the gases are recirculated into the intake system while the separated oil returns to the engine."Imagine it's a flap that opens and closes to control airflow," Gaitan explains, illustrating the valve's function. "If oil also enters there, the system isn't designed for it; it's not sealed to contain oil, only to manage air. Oil will dilate and damage the rubbers."According to Gaitan, when the PCV valve becomes damaged, it fails to effectively separate the oil, leading to oil being carried along with the gases into the air intake system, causing visible leaks. He stresses that this is a surprisingly common occurrence, more frequent than many vehicle owners realize. Despite its prevalence, Gaitan notes that most manufacturers' maintenance plans do not specifically include the inspection or replacement of this valve.Gaitan advises vehicle owners to consider replacing the PCV valve proactively. "Passing more than 60,000 kilometers with it always generates this type of problem," he warns, emphasizing the importance of this often-overlooked component for long-term vehicle health and preventing costly repairs. His insights provide valuable information for car owners seeking to understand and prevent common engine issues.

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9 days ago

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