The issue of valve cover gasket failure in Volkswagens is one that you must not joke with if you want your car to continue to function smoothly. These gaskets are found at the top of your VW engine between the valve cover and your car’s cylinder head, and they play a big role in maintaining the oil seal as it flows through the engine’s valves, camshafts, and rockers. Aside from keeping the oil inside, it also protects the cylinder head and other internal components from being exposed to unwanted elements.
Since they are made of cork or rubber, there are many factors that can make the gaskets deteriorate gradually and render them fragile or make them prone to cracks. Some of the causes of damage to this component are fluctuating temperatures, improper installation, and exposure to oil that is contaminated. This deterioration can lead to oil leaks, which, if neglected, might worsen and lead to major engine damage. Continue reading to know more about how to identify and rectify this problem in your VW.
Identifying Valve Cover Gasket Failure
Before we go into the solutions for this problem, let us first ensure that we can correctly identify the culprit. Here are some telltale signs of valve cover gasket failure in your Volkswagen:
- Oil Leaks: The first way to spot an issue in the gasket is by looking for traces of oil in the area around the valve cover. If you see any pool of oil on the ground or dripping from around the edges of the cover, then the gasket is most likely damaged.
- Burning Oil Smell: If you perceive any foul smell like something burning from under the hood then your gasket may be the culprit. This burning smell is likely caused by oil that leaks and touches very hot surfaces or parts of the engine.
- Rough Idle: In some cases, oil leaking from the gasket can seep into the spark plug wells and make your VW misfire or idle erratically. In addition, a longer period of exposure to oil can wear down the insulation properties of the spark plug wires, leading to further electrical issues and potential engine misfires.
- Visible Damage: Another way to spot issues in the gasket is to inspect the valve cover seal and look out for signs of physical deterioration such as cracks or tears. These are clear indicators that the gasket is no longer sealing properly.
Addressing Valve Cover Gasket Failure
- Early Detection: To address this problem, you need to look out for any of the signs we discussed above that signal the failure of the valve cover gasket. The earlier you can detect the leak the better and it would prevent severe problems down the road.
- Regular Inspections: You can also add valve cover gasket checks to your routine VW maintenance. This will help you to catch the failures before they turn into actual leaks. You’ll save time and money at the end of the day.
- Quality Replacements: If you need to replace the valve cover gasket you have to opt for high-quality or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. These car parts are designed to meet your VW’s specifications, ensuring a good fit and long-lasting seal.
- Professional Assistance: To access the valve cover gasket, you need to first remove any component such as the engine covers or other ancillary parts obstructing your access. Once these components are out of the way, you’ll find the valve cover secured to the cylinder head with a series of bolts or screws. Considering the position of this VW component, it is not advisable to try to repair it yourself. This is where professional help comes in. A skilled mechanic will ensure that the job is done correctly, using the right tools and techniques.
Let Us Fix Your Volkswagen Problems
When it comes to ensuring your Volkswagen 
remains in peak condition, at Hagan’s Motor Pool, we stand as your go-to service provider. We are situated in Rochester, NH, and our facility is well-stocked to address all your immediate repair needs. Our expertise extends beyond Rochester, as we proudly serve drivers from Alton, Barrington, Berwick, and Dover, NH. If you want to fix a leaking gasket or replace other parts of your VW, we are here to help you. Schedule your appointment with us today.