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Home / Symptoms / Valve Cover Gasket Replacement

the price of a valve cover gasket replacement varies according to labor costs, area prices, and shop expertise

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How Much is a Valve Cover Gasket Replacement?

The valve cover gasket replacement cost for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $100 and $150, depending on the vehicle model.

For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, a valve cover gasket replacement can fall around the $250 range on a 2024 Mercedes G-Wagon.

What are the costs when changing the valve cover gasket?

Changing the valve cover gasket goes beyond just replacing the part with a new one. The valve cover gasket itself might cost around $40 and $90, but the replacement cost adds labor, area rates, etc. Let’s break down the costs involved in a valve cover gasket replacement:

The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.
The shop’s neighborhood/area: Areas will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has prices different from Albuquerque in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.
The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the valve cover gasket. For example, an Audi valve cover gasket replacement can typically start at $150 and go above $250.

Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

Have you noticed any oil spots under your car or around the engine bay?

A leaking valve cover gasket can allow oil to seep out and collect on the engine or drip onto the ground. If oil spots appear where you park, it suggests oil is escaping from the engine, though leaks from other components like the oil pan or seals could also be responsible. Checking for oil residue around the valve cover can help pinpoint the source of the leak.

Do you smell burning oil when driving or after turning off the engine?

A strong burning oil smell is often a sign that oil is leaking from the valve cover gasket and dripping onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold. As the oil heats up and burns off, it produces a noticeable odor. If left unchecked, this can lead to excessive smoke, engine contamination, and even fire hazards.

Have you experienced engine misfires, rough idling, or a drop in performance?

A failing valve cover gasket can allow oil to leak into the spark plug wells, interfering with ignition. When spark plugs become oil-fouled, they may misfire, causing the engine to run rough, idle poorly, or lose power. If misfire symptoms develop alongside signs of oil leaks, the valve cover gasket should be inspected.

When was the last time you checked your oil level, and have you noticed it dropping faster than usual?

A valve cover gasket leak may not always be visible, but a noticeable drop in oil levels over time without an external drip can suggest a slow leak. If the oil is burning off before it reaches the ground, it may go unnoticed until symptoms like overheating, poor lubrication, or engine damage appear.

Have you seen any smoke coming from under the hood while driving or when the engine is warm?

Smoke coming from the engine bay is a strong indication that oil is leaking onto hot surfaces and burning off. This is common with a valve cover gasket failure, especially if the leak is severe. The presence of smoke should never be ignored, as it could pose a fire risk or lead to further engine damage.

Has your check engine light come on recently, especially with misfire-related codes?

A leaking valve cover gasket can indirectly trigger a check engine light if oil reaches the spark plugs, ignition coils, or camshaft sensors. Common error codes include P0300-P0306 (misfire codes) or P0340-P0341 (camshaft position sensor faults). If the light is on and other symptoms like rough idling or oil leaks are present, the gasket should be inspected.

What is the smell of a valve cover gasket leak?

A leaking valve cover gasket often produces a burning oil smell. This happens when oil seeps out of the gasket and drips onto hot engine parts like the exhaust manifold. If the leak is severe, you may also notice smoke coming from under the hood.

Can a valve cover gasket leak cause engine damage?

Yes, over time. A slow leak may not seem serious at first, but low oil levels can lead to increased friction and overheating, causing premature engine wear. If oil leaks into the spark plug wells, it can lead to misfires, poor performance, and potential damage to ignition components like spark plugs and coils.

How often should a valve cover gasket be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval, but most last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Factors like engine heat, oil quality, and driving conditions can affect longevity. If you notice leaks, misfires, or a burning smell, it may be time for a replacement.

What tools are needed for a valve cover gasket replacement?

Basic tools include a socket set, ratchet, torque wrench, screwdriver, gasket scraper, brake cleaner, shop rags, and RTV sealant (if required). A service manual or repair guide for your vehicle is also recommended.

Can I use sealant instead of replacing the gasket?

No, sealant should not be used as a substitute for a proper valve cover gasket. Some vehicles require RTV sealant at specific points, but completely replacing the gasket is the best way to ensure a lasting and leak-free seal.

What are common signs of oil leaking onto the spark plugs?

If oil leaks into the spark plug wells, you might notice engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and difficulty starting. A visual inspection of the spark plugs can confirm oil contamination.

What is the difference between a valve cover gasket and a head gasket?

A valve cover gasket seals the valve cover to prevent oil leaks from the top of the engine. A head gasket sits between the engine block and cylinder head, sealing coolant and oil passages. A failed head gasket is far more serious, often leading to coolant mixing with oil, overheating, and major engine damage.

Can a valve cover gasket leak cause smoke?

Yes, if leaking oil drips onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold, it can cause visible smoke from under the hood. If you notice this, it’s important to address the leak quickly to prevent further damage or fire risks.

What are the common error codes related to this issue?

A valve cover gasket leak itself doesn’t trigger a check engine light, but oil contamination in the spark plug wells can cause misfire codes (P0300-P0306). In some cases, it can also lead to camshaft position sensor errors (P0340, P0341) if oil interferes with the sensor operation.

Are there more costs to consider besides common replacement costs?

Yes, the common replacement costs are expected in any valve cover gasket replacement. But you might get a specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

Here are the possible types of service you can get.

“Just” a fix: This means you just need the valve cover gasket replacement and nothing else. The downside is that you might not discover what caused the valve cover gasket to go bad in the first place. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s forcing the valve cover gasket to wear down faster. In this situation, getting a new cover won’t solve the issue, it might just make you return to the shop shortly to replace the valve cover again. This goal probably won’t have extra costs besides the common ones at first. But it may mean you’ll spend it all again if the cover keeps wearing out faster.
Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue causing your valve cover gasket to wear down faster than expected. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

Costs of a long-lasting valve cover gasket fix

In addition to the common replacement costs, a long-lasting replacement has more things that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

Fuel system inspection: A combustion system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of your engine system that involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.
Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn surrounding and affected components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.
Other systems repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the ignition system that are worn out due to bad fuel pressure can cost north of $1,000.

Bad valve cover gasket symptoms

A failing valve cover gasket makes your vehicle act weird. You might want to look out for the signs of a bad valve cover gasket so you can predict when it’s time for an inspection. Let’s explore these symptoms.

Valve cover gasket leak – One of the most common signs is visible oil leaking around the valve cover or on the engine block. You might also see oil pooling under the car.
Burning Oil Smell – If oil leaks onto hot engine components, it can burn and produce a strong, burnt oil odor inside or outside the vehicle.
Low Engine Oil Levels – A leaking valve cover gasket can cause oil loss over time, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
Engine Misfires – Oil can seep into the spark plug wells, leading to misfires, rough idling, or difficulty starting the engine.
Smoke from the Engine Bay – If leaking oil drips onto the exhaust manifold, it can create smoke under the hood while driving or idling.
Check Engine Light (CEL) On – If oil affects ignition components or sensors, it can trigger the check engine light, indicating a misfire or other issues.
Engine Running Rough – If oil leaks into the wrong places, such as the spark plug chambers, it can cause hesitation, rough acceleration, or stalling.

What’s at risk with a faulty valve cover gasket?

Some other car parts that work together with the valve cover gasket will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the valve cover gasket isn’t dealt with quickly:

Spark Plugs – $100 to $250
Ignition Coils – $150 to $400
Cylinder Head – $500 to $1,500
Engine Oil System (Oil Contamination & Loss) – $100 to $500
Oxygen Sensors – $200 to $500
Catalytic Converter – $900 to $2,500

You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with a faulty valve cover gasket. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

Engine Misfires – Misfires reduce engine power and control, which can be dangerous in traffic or while merging onto highways.
Overheating – Excess heat can cause engine failure, leaving you stranded or even causing sudden breakdowns in dangerous locations.
Smoke from Engine Bay – Thick smoke can obstruct visibility and indicate an impending fire hazard, putting you and others at risk.
Strong Burning Oil Smell – A persistent burning smell can lead to driver distraction and signal a potential fire risk if left unchecked.
Increased Oil Consumption – Running low on oil can cause engine failure mid-drive, increasing the risk of accidents.
Fire Hazard – Oil leaking onto hot exhaust components can ignite, leading to vehicle fires that can spread rapidly.
Catalytic Converter Damage – A failing catalytic converter can overheat and cause exhaust system malfunctions, leading to reduced performance and potential fire hazards.

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Pinpoint the Issue

Have you noticed any oil spots under your car or around the engine bay?

A leaking valve cover gasket can allow oil to seep out and collect on the engine or drip onto the ground. If oil spots appear where you park, it suggests oil is escaping from the engine, though leaks from other components like the oil pan or seals could also be responsible. Checking for oil residue around the valve cover can help pinpoint the source of the leak.
Do you smell burning oil when driving or after turning off the engine?

A strong burning oil smell is often a sign that oil is leaking from the valve cover gasket and dripping onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold. As the oil heats up and burns off, it produces a noticeable odor. If left unchecked, this can lead to excessive smoke, engine contamination, and even fire hazards.
Have you experienced engine misfires, rough idling, or a drop in performance?

A failing valve cover gasket can allow oil to leak into the spark plug wells, interfering with ignition. When spark plugs become oil-fouled, they may misfire, causing the engine to run rough, idle poorly, or lose power. If misfire symptoms develop alongside signs of oil leaks, the valve cover gasket should be inspected.
When was the last time you checked your oil level, and have you noticed it dropping faster than usual?

A valve cover gasket leak may not always be visible, but a noticeable drop in oil levels over time without an external drip can suggest a slow leak. If the oil is burning off before it reaches the ground, it may go unnoticed until symptoms like overheating, poor lubrication, or engine damage appear.
Have you seen any smoke coming from under the hood while driving or when the engine is warm?

Smoke coming from the engine bay is a strong indication that oil is leaking onto hot surfaces and burning off. This is common with a valve cover gasket failure, especially if the leak is severe. The presence of smoke should never be ignored, as it could pose a fire risk or lead to further engine damage.
Has your check engine light come on recently, especially with misfire-related codes?

A leaking valve cover gasket can indirectly trigger a check engine light if oil reaches the spark plugs, ignition coils, or camshaft sensors. Common error codes include P0300-P0306 (misfire codes) or P0340-P0341 (camshaft position sensor faults). If the light is on and other symptoms like rough idling or oil leaks are present, the gasket should be inspected.

FAQ on Valve Cover Gasket Replacement

What is the smell of a valve cover gasket leak?

A leaking valve cover gasket often produces a burning oil smell. This happens when oil seeps out of the gasket and drips onto hot engine parts like the exhaust manifold. If the leak is severe, you may also notice smoke coming from under the hood.
Can a valve cover gasket leak cause engine damage?

Yes, over time. A slow leak may not seem serious at first, but low oil levels can lead to increased friction and overheating, causing premature engine wear. If oil leaks into the spark plug wells, it can lead to misfires, poor performance, and potential damage to ignition components like spark plugs and coils.
How often should a valve cover gasket be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval, but most last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Factors like engine heat, oil quality, and driving conditions can affect longevity. If you notice leaks, misfires, or a burning smell, it may be time for a replacement.
What tools are needed for a valve cover gasket replacement?

Basic tools include a socket set, ratchet, torque wrench, screwdriver, gasket scraper, brake cleaner, shop rags, and RTV sealant (if required). A service manual or repair guide for your vehicle is also recommended.
Can I use sealant instead of replacing the gasket?

No, sealant should not be used as a substitute for a proper valve cover gasket. Some vehicles require RTV sealant at specific points, but completely replacing the gasket is the best way to ensure a lasting and leak-free seal.
What are common signs of oil leaking onto the spark plugs?

If oil leaks into the spark plug wells, you might notice engine misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and difficulty starting. A visual inspection of the spark plugs can confirm oil contamination.
What is the difference between a valve cover gasket and a head gasket?

A valve cover gasket seals the valve cover to prevent oil leaks from the top of the engine. A head gasket sits between the engine block and cylinder head, sealing coolant and oil passages. A failed head gasket is far more serious, often leading to coolant mixing with oil, overheating, and major engine damage.
Can a valve cover gasket leak cause smoke?

Yes, if leaking oil drips onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold, it can cause visible smoke from under the hood. If you notice this, it’s important to address the leak quickly to prevent further damage or fire risks.
What are the common error codes related to this issue?

A valve cover gasket leak itself doesn’t trigger a check engine light, but oil contamination in the spark plug wells can cause misfire codes (P0300-P0306). In some cases, it can also lead to camshaft position sensor errors (P0340, P0341) if oil interferes with the sensor operation.

Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

What does the valve cover gasket do?

The valve cover gasket is a seal that sits between the valve cover and the cylinder head of the engine. Both these components (cylinder head and valve cover) run lots of oil, and the seal (valve cover gasket) prevents this oil from leaking out. Plus, the sealing also keeps dirt, debris, and contaminants from entering the engine.

What are the problems of a faulty valve cover gasket?

A faulty valve cover gasket leads to a valve cover gasket leak. This means that your engine starts losing oil, becomes contaminated, and loses efficiency in the combustion process.

Ignoring a valve cover gasket leak can really mess up the engine. As the oil leaks, the engine loses lubrication and components start tearing each other. The leaking oil might also seep out and fall into hot components under the hood, making smoke, causing burnt smells, and even creating a fire hazard. Plus, leaking oil might start falling everywhere, including the spark plugs, resulting in engine misfires.

Keep in mind that oil also controls temperature. So, if your engine is losing lots of oil through a leaking valve cover gasket, it’s temperature will rise without any oil to cool it down. As a result, the engine might overheat and suffer critical and expensive damages.

Valve cover gasket DIY: Can it be replaced at home?

Yes! Replacing a valve cover gasket is a job that most DIYers can handle at home with basic tools. It doesn’t require deep engine work, and as long as you follow the steps carefully, it can be done in a few hours. The key is to work patiently, clean the surfaces properly, and torque the bolts correctly to give the seal a good twist. If your engine is leaking oil, making a burning oil smell, or misfiring, replacing the valve cover gasket might be the solution.

But you absolutely need to have 100% confirmation that the leaks in your engine are because of a bad valve cover gasket. Therefore, even if you want to try your hand at a DIY valve cover gasket replacement, make sure you at least go through an inspection to nail the problem down.

Valve Cover Gasket DIY Replacement Guide

Tools and Materials Needed

New valve cover gasket (OEM or high-quality aftermarket)
Socket set and ratchet (commonly 8mm, 10mm, or 12mm)
Torque wrench (to tighten bolts to the correct specs)
Screwdrivers (for hose clamps and electrical connectors)
Gasket scraper or plastic putty knife (to remove old gasket residue)
Brake cleaner or engine degreaser (for cleaning)
Shop rags or paper towels
RTV silicone gasket maker (if required by the manufacturer)
Gloves and safety glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Ensure the Engine is Cool

Never work on a hot engine. Wait at least 30–60 minutes after driving before starting the replacement.

Step 2: Disconnect the Battery

For safety, disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal to prevent accidental electrical issues.

Step 3: Remove Any Components Blocking the Valve Cover

Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove:

Plastic engine cover (if applicable)
Air intake hose (if it crosses over the valve cover)
Ignition coils or spark plug wires (disconnect carefully and label them if needed)

Step 4: Remove the Valve Cover Bolts

Use the appropriate socket and ratchet to loosen and remove the bolts around the valve cover.
Keep the bolts in order, as some vehicles have different lengths.

Step 5: Carefully Remove the Valve Cover

Gently lift the valve cover. If it’s stuck, lightly tap it with a rubber mallet or pry it gently with a plastic scraper (avoid using metal tools to prevent damage).
Be cautious of hoses, electrical connectors, and sensors attached to the valve cover.

Step 6: Remove the Old Gasket and Clean the Surface

Peel off the old valve cover gasket and discard it.
Use a gasket scraper or plastic putty knife to clean any residue from the mating surface.
Wipe the area with brake cleaner or engine degreaser for a clean seal.

Step 7: Install the New Valve Cover Gasket

Align the new gasket in the valve cover grooves.
If required, apply a small amount of RTV silicone at specific points (refer to the vehicle’s service manual).

Step 8: Reinstall the Valve Cover

Carefully place the valve cover back onto the engine.
Hand-tighten all bolts first to avoid cross-threading.

Step 9: Torque the Bolts to Manufacturer Specs

Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
Check your vehicle’s service manual for the correct torque specs. Over-tightening can damage the gasket or warp the cover.

Step 10: Reinstall Any Removed Components

Reconnect the ignition coils, spark plug wires, hoses, and sensors.
Reattach the air intake hose and any engine covers.

Step 11: Reconnect the Battery and Start the Engine

Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, checking for leaks or unusual noises.

Step 12: Check for Leaks and Final Inspection

Look around the valve cover for any oil seepage.
Take the car for a short drive and recheck the area afterward.

Types of valve cover gaskets

There are different types of valve cover gaskets, each having its pros and cons. You’ll also see some modern vehicles requiring some specific valve cover gasket type, such as performance vehicles with silicon valve cover gaskets. On the other hand, older vehicles might not be compatible with cover gaskets other than cork. Let’s discuss this in more detail.

1. Rubber Valve Cover Gaskets

The most common type in modern vehicles
Flexible and easy to install
Provides a good seal and is resistant to minor engine vibrations
Can harden or crack over time due to heat exposure

2. Cork Valve Cover Gaskets

It's the older style, but it's still used in some vehicles
Compresses well to form a tight seal
Affordable and easy to replace
Can dry out and shrink, leading to leaks

3. Silicone Valve Cover Gaskets

Often used in high-performance engines
Highly resistant to heat and oil exposure
Provides an excellent seal and lasts longer than rubber or cork
Typically more expensive

4. Metal Valve Cover Gaskets

Used in some high-end or performance vehicles
Reinforced with rubber or silicone for durability
Resistant to warping, high temperatures, and pressure
More durable but costly compared to other types

5. Liquid Gasket (RTV Sealant)

Not a traditional gasket but is sometimes used in place of one
Can be used alone or alongside a gasket in specific areas
Provides a custom fit but requires precise application
Can lead to clogging or leaks if not applied correctly

How to get transparent long-lasting repairs

If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the valve cover gasket replacement, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

The solution for the root cause of your valve cover gasket being damaged is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform a combustion system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your valve gasket’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

Let’s see an example of a fuel system investigation because of a faulty valve cover gasket.

A Transparent, Long-lasting valve cover gasket Repair Example

A complete combustion system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all fuel components (fuel lines, valve gasket, pumps, engine, connectors, etc.) work as expected.

For instance, if a shop is requested to do a combustion system inspection due to a faulty valve cover gasket, the mechanics will look through each combustion-related component, even getting to the engine’s fuel injection parts.

They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if something overstressed or damaged the valve cover gasket. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify a culprit causing extra stress on the valve cover gasket.

The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

This method focuses on two things:

Does the shop have a modern DVI?
Does the shop have certifications?

What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, It’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it. The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition.

The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

A DVI helps with a valve cover gasket replacement

The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (valve cover, valve gasket, the engine’s combustion chamber, injectors, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

Here are some important things about a DVI:

It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s component’s surface, searching for obvious problem signs.
It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.
It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

If they spot combustion issues, they’ll edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic found that the valve cover gasket was worn, allowing fluid from the valve cover to leak out into the engine bay.

Valve cover leaking

A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future.

In this case, they’ll see a valve cover gasket replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

Certifications that help you

Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.