2000 Toyota Tacoma - Valve - Intake

What is an Intake Valve

Intake valves are located in the cylinder head and are responsible for controlling the flow of air and fuel entering the cylinder's combustion chamber so that combustion can take place. The intake valve is designed to open and close at specific times to ensure an efficient air-fuel mixture and proper engine operation and performance. Valves and cylinder heads are machined with tight tolerances to ensure that when the valve is closed it fully seals the combustion chamber, allowing the fuel and air mixture to be compressed and ignited. Engine valves usually don't fail on their own, but can be damaged because of other issues such as a timing failure or poor engine care. A timing failure like a snapped belt can cause the piston to make contact with the intake valve, which may bend the valve and keep it from sealing the cylinder. If the wrong fuel is used or if overheating issues are ignored, it can result in a burnt valve or carbon buildup that may prevent it from sealing properly. If your intake valve is failing or leaking, you may notice rough engine operation and idle decreased fuel efficiency, engine misfires, or decreased acceleration. If your vehicle is experiencing symptoms of a bad intake valve, be sure to make the repairs required to avoid costly damage to internal components, like the catalytic converter, which can be affected by rich-running engine conditions. Replacing an engine intake valve is a big job and will require an engine teardown, which makes it a great opportunity to have your cylinder head checked out at a machine shop to ensure a lasting repair. When you're ready to make your cylinder head or valve train repair, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts for the right parts and tools. We carry engine exhaust and intake valves, head gaskets, and more, as well as specialty tools available to rent through our Loaner Tool program.