Take the Quiz:
“PCV” stands for:
A. Positive Crankcase Ventilation
B. Pollution Containment Vehicle
C. Preventive Control Vehicle
D. Pollution Control Valve
If you answered “A” – you are correct! Although many may think the answer is "D", Pollution Control Valve, the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) concept was important to automotive engines long before pollution control ever became a concern. The PCV valve is one half of the crankcase ventilation system – the other half is the breather filter. The breather flows clean air into the crankcase through a hose on your air filter and the PCV valve lets dirty air and crankcase gases out. These dirty gases and air get sent through the engine to be re-burned for clean emissions.
PCV Dangers
An old PCV valve can cause rough engine idle, blown oil seals, fouled air filter and fuel system, fumes in the passenger compartment, excessive engine part wear, and shorter oil life. Although the PCV is not a pollution control valve, a worn out PCV valve can contribute to air pollution. So, it’s important to change your PCV valve for the safety of your vehicle - and the environment!
When To Change The PCV
It is not recommended that a PCV valve be cleaned. It should be replaced. So, replace your dirty PCV valve with a clean Purolator PCV valve every 12 months or 12,000 miles, or at intervals recommended in your vehicle's owners manual for optimum engine performance. Check out the Purolator Application Guide to find the right PCV valve for your vehicle, or call our Filter Hotline at 1-800-526-4250.