PCV

Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System Parts and Accessories

As engines run, the heat generated by combustion warms the oil, and small quantities of oil can evaporate and build up in the crankcase. The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is designed to release these oil vapors to minimize internal pressures that can cause performance problems and gasket damage. The primary component of the PCV system is the PCV valve, which is designed to remain closed until oil vapors reach a specific pressure, at which point the valve opens and releases them to the air filter box to recirculate them into the engine's intake. This also helps prevent oil vapors from being released into the atmosphere, and instead burns them off in the engine. When your PCV system is clogged or no longer working as it should, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries a variety of PCV valves, hoses, filters, breathers, and more for your repair.

How Does the PCV System on a Car Work?

Though every vehicle may have a different design, the PCV system is usually made up of a PCV valve, breather, hoses, and in some cases, oil collection canisters or oil separators. All of these components are designed to release and filter oil vapors while keeping it contained within the PCV system. Once the engine's PCV valve releases oil vapor, it may collect in a vapor canister and be filtered, or it may flow to the air filter box which also includes a filter that prevents oil vapors from contaminating the air filter. From there, the vapors are drawn into the engine and burned in the cylinders to reduce pollution. When the PCV valve or other parts of the system clog with condensed oil or debris, it can cause pressure to build up inside the crankcase and cause a reduction in performance. In some cases, excessive oil vapor pressure or damage to parts of the PCV system can also put excessive pressure on the gaskets and lead to oil leaks.

Shop PCV Valves and Crankcase Breather Parts

No matter what part of the PCV or crankcase breather system on your vehicle has been damaged, you can find everything you need for your repair at O'Reilly Auto Parts. In some cases, it is possible to clean a PCV valve and return it to service, but it is often best to simply replace it with a new PCV valve to ensure continued engine performance. We also carry PCV grommets, crankcase breather and filter replacements, PCV hoses, PCV hoses, PVC elbows, replacement PCV hose nipples, and more to help you keep your vehicle driving at its best.