Valve Cover Gasket vs. Full Valve Cover Replacement: What’s Best for Your BMW?
When faced with an oil leak in your BMW, you might be tempted to take the cheaper route and only replace the valve cover gasket. However, at CG Motorsports, we’ve seen countless cases where simply replacing the gasket isn’t enough to fully solve the problem. If you’re in Vancouver, Richmond, or the Greater Vancouver area and dealing with an oil leak, here’s why we recommend a full valve cover replacement instead of just swapping the gasket.
Why Replacing the Gasket Alone Isn’t the Best Solution
The valve cover gasket is designed to seal the area between the valve cover and the engine. Over time, the gasket wears out, leading to oil leaks. Many BMW owners opt to replace just the gasket because it’s a less expensive fix. However, if your valve cover is made of plastic—like in most BMW models—it’s very likely that the cover itself is cracked or warped due to engine heat.
Plastic Valve Covers Are Prone to Cracking
BMWs are known for their high engine temperatures, particularly in turbocharged models. The plastic valve cover becomes brittle with age and heat, which means that even after replacing the gasket, the cover could still be leaking.
Recurring Oil Leaks
If the valve cover is already cracked, oil will continue to leak even after the gasket is replaced, forcing you to address the issue again down the line.
Costly Labor
Replacing the valve cover gasket requires the same amount of labor as replacing the entire valve cover. By opting to replace the full cover and gasket in one go, you save yourself the cost of having to pay for labor twice if the cover cracks shortly after replacing the gasket.
Why a Full Valve Cover Replacement is the Better Option
When you replace both the valve cover and the gasket, you’re ensuring a more durable and long-lasting solution to the oil leak. Here’s why:
Improved Durability
A new valve cover will able to withstand the high temperatures in your BMW engine better than an old, brittle cover. This is particularly important for turbocharged models, where the extra heat can degrade plastic parts quickly.
Reduced Risk of Recurring Leaks
Replacing both the valve cover and gasket ensures a tighter seal, reducing the chances of another oil leak in the near future.
Cost Savings
While replacing the entire valve cover may be more expensive upfront, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for repeated repairs.
Common bmw models with value cover issues
The following BMW models are particularly prone to valve cover and gasket issues:
- BMW 3 Series (325i, 328i, 335i)
- BMW 5 Series (528i, 535i)
- BMW X5 (35i, 40i)
- BMW 7 Series (740i, 750i)
These models often experience valve cover problems due to the high temperatures and turbocharged engines, making a full replacement the best course of action.
Book Your BMW Valve Cover Replacement in Vancouver Today
If you’re experiencing oil leaks, don’t hesitate to bring your BMW to CG Motorsports. Serving Vancouver, Richmond, and the Greater Vancouver area, our certified BMW specialists are here to help you decide whether a valve cover gasket replacement or a full valve cover replacement is the right option for your vehicle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your BMW running smoothly for years to come.
