Range Rover PCV Valve Problems: Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Fix

Like many tried-and-tested Range Rover owners, I’ve become quite the detective when it comes to uncovering my Range Rovers secrets.

One of the more memorable mysteries I’ve encountered — for all the wrong reasons — on this automotive journey of self-discovery is none other than the enigmatic PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve.

Let’s take a deep look into the riveting world of PCV valves to unravel the signs, decode the symptoms, and reveal the hidden truths lurking beneath the hood of your beloved Range Rover.

It’s time to get to the bottom of this conundrum and get your car purring once again!

What models are affected?

Signs and symptoms

Before we dive into the specifics of the PCV valve, let’s discuss some signs and symptoms that you might experience if it’s faulty.

Rough Idle: If your engine is idling roughly, then it might be an issue with the PCV valve. The valve helps to regulate the air mixture, and if it’s not doing its job correctly, it can cause the engine to run poorly.
Poor Fuel Economy: Your car may be using more fuel than usual if the PCV valve is not working correctly. This is because the air-fuel mixture flowing in the engine is not regulated.
Check Engine Light: The check engine light on your dashboard can indicate an issue with the PCV valve. If you notice that the light is on, take it to a mechanic quickly.
Unusual Engine Noises: Faulty PCV valves can create strange noises coming from the engine. For example, you might hear a hissing sound from the engine or a sound similar to a whistling noise.
Oil Leaks: If your car is leaking oil, it could be related to the PCV valve. If it’s not functioning correctly, then the oil can leak out, causing a mess underneath your car.

List of possible OBD codes

When the PCV valve is not working correctly, it can produce several OBD (On-Board Diagnostic) codes.

The most likely codes associated with a PCV valve issue are:

P0171– System Too Lean
P0174 -System Too Lean
P0113– Intake Air Temperature Circuit High Input

Common causes

Some of the most common causes of a faulty PCV valve in Range Rovers include:

The Valve is Clogged: Over time, the PCV valve can become clogged or obstructed, causing it to malfunction.
The Valve is Stuck Open: If the valve is stuck open, then too much air will flow through the engine, resulting in a lean air/fuel mixture.
The Valve is Stuck Closed: If the valve is stuck closed, then too little air will flow through the engine, resulting in a rich air/fuel mixture.
The Valve is Worn Out: Wear and tear can cause the PCV valve to malfunction.

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

Yes, the PCV valve can be fixed without a mechanic.

If you’re comfortable working on your car, it’s a relatively easy fix, and it shouldn’t take more than an hour to complete.

Parts you’ll need to fix it

The parts you’ll need to replace the PCV valve in your Range Rover are:

PCV Valve

Tools you’ll need to fix it

Here are the tools you’ll need to fix your PCV valve:

Pliers
Socket Wrench
Flathead Screwdriver

How to fix it

Let’s go through how to replace your PCV valve in a few easy steps:

1. Locate the PCV valve: It’s usually located on top of the engine and is easy to spot.
2. Remove the valve: You can do this by using pliers to remove the hose connected to the valve and then using a socket wrench to remove the valve from the engine.
3. Install the new valve: Screw the new valve into place and replace the hose that connected to the old valve.
4. Test the new valve: Start the car and see if there’s any improvement.

Potential alternative causes

While PCV valve malfunction is a common cause of certain problems with your Range Rover, other issues can also cause similar symptoms.

These include:

Faulty Mass Airflow Sensors (MAFs)
Bad Oxygen Sensors (O2s)
Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensors (TPSs)

FAQs

Why is the PCV valve important?

The PCV valve regulates the positive crankcase ventilation. It pulls in air to the engine and helps to regulate the air and fuel mixture, making your car run more efficiently.

How often should I replace the PCV valve on my Range Rover?

It’s recommended that you replace the PCV valve on your Range Rover every 20,000-50,000 miles, or every two years.

Can a faulty PCV valve cause permanent damage to my engine?

Yes, a faulty PCV valve can cause permanent damage to your engine if left untreated. Over time, you may need to spend more on engine repairs if you ignore this issue.

Summary

In conclusion, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it could be a faulty PCV valve causing the issue. However, it’s essential to diagnose the problem correctly before replacing the valve.

If you’re comfortable with car repairs, then the PCV valve fix shouldn’t trouble you much. Remember to regularly inspect your car to catch any issues before they become bigger problems.