How to Replace a Valve Cover Gasket

Popular Mechanics associate auto editor Ben Wojdyla isn't a neatness nut. He just doesn't like to make a big mess with seeping oil that coats his engine and pollutes roads.
Here, he shows you how to:
Remove and organize fasteners
Clean off the old gasket
Secure the gasket to the valve cover and apply RTV sealant
Tighten the bolts properly
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Who says you can't work on your own car anymore? Follow Popular Mechanics associate auto editor Ben Wojdyla as he leads viewers, step by step, through repairs, upgrades, and troubleshooting tips. Got car questions? Email Ben, and he may answer them on the show.

[@bwxmoto]

One thing you forgot to mention which can make a difference between leaks or no leaks, success, or failure. I changed the valve cover gasket on a 4cyl car once, did everything right, but forgot one step. Time. After the job, give a few hours of drying time before you crank the engine over. I didn't and where the RTV hadn't set up yet, it leaked instantly. Had to re-do the job. I waited a couple hrs, (actually over-night) and it worked. It was an old ''88 Merc Tracer 1.8 which was a 323 clone.

[@Kevinh1998]

thanks for mentioning that.

[@claraeverett2940]

please just know that you are an absolute angel for these videos

[@Shadowsnshades]

I've had an oil leak on my 1998 Ford Contour for a while. While replacing the spark plugs, I discovered oil in some of the chambers. After watching your video, you've inspired me to replace the gasket. With a little research, I'm sure I can fix it myself. Not a mechanic, but I'm not afraid to do some of the work myself. Any advice? Great video!

[@Tommy-gk6bh]

Oh nice, a Saab engine. I’m working this same job on my 9-5, this video is way better than the other “Saab” videos. Nice one guys.

[@gerard1153]

Too funny Tommy...I have a 9-5 as well! I thought..."wow" what are the odds he chose a Saab for the example car...sweet!

[@toxicvaporz]

torque wrench wasn't in "tools you will need"

[@kokohawk]

This was a very helpful video. Was very thorough and got straight to the point unlike a series of videos I started to watch from a guy before watching your video. Thank you very much!

[@Munkenba]

Brilliantly helpful, I've never replaced anything like this before and suddenly my Lancia Fulvia needs exactly this doing to it (Italians eh?). Even if I don't end up doing the job myself, it's good peace of mind to know that it's not that bad of a problem and my engine won't explode anytime soon.

[@swillia6rider]

Oh, great and mighty Wojdyla, I thank you for showing proper use and judicious application of a torque wrench! Of all the tools I've acquired over the past 4-ish years as I have progressed working on my car, my torque wrenches (1/2" and 3/8" drive) were some of the most affordable $10-20 at Harbor Freight, and they're still among my favorite tools; they give me true confidence that when I've done a job, it's done properly.

[@Casinolife07]

the adhesive to make the gasket stick is a real good thing to have, great video thank you!!

[@manuelramos4608]

Very good professional work

[@Craft1man]

This video was exactly what I was looking for, since I to also own a Saab.

[@gracilism]

Wow, wish my valve covers had that kind of access.

[@joseluislegarda8378]

I know what you meant I have a Cadillac seville and to replace the cover gaskets is a pain

[@antoniot3770]

Excellent videos, you can tell the difference from when a guy thinks he knows it all and tries to show off on youtube from a guy actually trying to help you learn to manage your vehicles up keep. Good stuff Ben. I've got to change to valve cover gasket on my 2001 Mazda tribute V6. got any pointers on my specific vehicle? and this vid helps thanks agian

[@2LimeCrewDosLimones]

great Saab story..

[@brettfrantzen7425]

Used this video for my saab . Thank you ! Though the inner gasket does not need any tack . The outer did not stay in even with the tack product . Maybe we didn’t let it set up ? After a few try’s I think it went ok . Test drove and no leaks !

[@toomuchtruth]

Hugely helpful, thanks a lot Ben!

[@farcozeee]

You are a good man to work on a SAAB, most people are terrified to come near it. Awesome video.

[@Prjctpatfan2009]

PS. Always test fit the gasket set before you try to put it on. You'll just love life if you get it halfway on only to realize the manufacturer made it 5mm too long. Then you'll have a man made leak from snipping it and having to glob it over with RTV and pray it doesn't leak. Most gasket sets, once you open the box they won't accept it for return. Also, just don't even try to be careful with a metal scraper. Just don't use one. 10 times out of 10, you'll gouge the metal and create more leak areas. It might be hardened aluminum but it's still malleable. Use a plastic scraper or even a plastic spork or plastic knife. Old gaskets usually should fall right off from age

[@acebo986]

nice video brother, was unaware about the rtv and tack spray, having help me brother replace a value cover gasket on his bmw. definitely will pick some up on this next go around

[@Anjiru0009]

great pointers and I really like that you use common man tools.

[@huideyin4774]

love it, thank you for sharing, this is the greatest step by step guideline before I start doing this on my car.

[@dobisayek]

+Huide Yin , Why are YOU riding Saab?

[@Shedlight420]

Thank you for sharing.

[@ThaDooood]

Thanks for the video allowing me to make sure I reduce the chances of missing a step since it's been several years since I've done this. Good refresher. I appreciate your explanation. However, for fun, I also like to paint my valve cover for "bling". I was curious about whether you had some advice or "step-by-step" on your "how-to" so that I can compare with how I usually do it. Just want to see if i can learn something new. Maybe you use a better product or procedure? Would love to see what you have in mind regarding this.

[@SantiagoMolinaC]

Hey Ben yes it does wub wub. No clicking. I'm not sure if the noise is different turning left or right. Will check thanks for the reply!

[@jburi01]

Hey Ben, just wanted to say that your vids are really instructive. Keep 'me coming. Btw, would it be possible for you to do a demo/vid on changing the spark plugs on a German car (bummer/mini)?? Thanks.

[@thegameon3085]

First video I watched of him n great job I subbed and he did a great job

[@TheTaverTeam]

great job ! very well prepared.

[@michaellewis2139]

Good video.

[@liedABOUTmyAGE]

These videos are very professional, subscribed !! bit too long video tho

[@henrynguyen6522]

Just had a question, when you applied the adhesive spray I seen it get into the valve cover is that supposed to get cleaned up and also your engine blocc was not cover up is it serious to be covered or can we leave it open like yours

[@ricardoperez8879]

I was wondering the same. I think this is why some people opt out for glues instead of sprays

[@brownpaul476]

this is a really helpful video. Im going to be replacing the valve cover gaskets on my 1987 oldsmobile cutlass ciera 2.8L 6 cylinder engine soon, I will also be replacing the transmission gasket as well since its leaking. I don't know much about cars and if you have done some work on this model of car I could use all the tips I can get.

[@SantiagoMolinaC]

Cool video. Could you do a video on how to check wheel bearings. I have a 2002 impreza, which makes some odd noise coming from the front right wheel, esp. when turning, and i believe it's the bearing. I don't want to take it to the dealer, because they will probably charge me a lot. If it can be diagnosed,i can probably take it to another mechanic. Thanks

[@oodragondrew]

I wanted to pull my hair out when he used a metal scraper , you're supposed to use a plastic one or you have the possibility to make deep scratches their for having a small leak...

[@WPXTacoMan477]

D Sim oh man.. my hemroid hurts from watching him take a STEEL brush to the ALUMINUM valve cover.. bet that lasts 2 months before it leaks again. Ruined forever

[@michaelallen2870]

Im glad both of you guys noticed that! Im an Aircraft Hydraulic Mechanic, and one of the first things we always learn is **NEVER USE STEEL WHEN WORKING WITH SEALING SURFACES!!! BRASS ONLY!!**

[@thebbqprince]

@@WPXTacoMan477 is a copper brush acceptable or no?

[@KingPOF]

@@thebbqprince I'd say use a brass brush

[@Motive_Tube]

@@WPXTacoMan477 not that he was wasn't demonstrating any improper practices (i.e., using a metal scraper just before), but @6:05 clearly states that the brush is "soft bristled"

[@jakoblopez5934]

Eight years laters, Milwaukee is now the speed wrench

[@kaixu1026]

This is a very helpful video. Will this process be similar if I have a different type of car?

[@kowasumono]

Quick question. What happened to this channel? It's soo goood.

[@jjlwis]

this guy is good! very through too! AND he even used a Torque Wrench! haha

[@jmartinez728]

Hey...can you help. I need to know how many pounds of torque for the gasket bolts for a 2004 kia spectra 1.8. Thanks so much!!!

[@deadkitsun6667]

Your voice makes me think of David Cross talking calm

[@deadkitsun6667]

Amazing help 👌

[@RafisSabitov]

Can you make a video for Subaru opposite engine, how to change in such engine valves cover gaskets at the both sides without moving engine up or down?

[@MrKalabama]

So do you have to use that sealant on the head? Or can I just put the new gasket on and bolt it down? btw I have a 1986 Crown Victoria Coupe (if that means anything).

[@ronhughley6510]

love this guy's and his videos. pretty detailed an explains very well. I like the step by step.

[@punk86]

I don't understand why they don't tell you to put RTV all the way around it. I thought that would be best, since it could leak from anywhere, rather than just the corners or so.

[@hiazn69]

How about a video on cleaning an engine bay? Any recommendations on cleaning solvents?

[@ChrisfromGeorgia]

Body temp piss works great

[@jw200]

Hi. I changed my spark plugs today and found that some of the "holes" of where spark plug goes, had oil in it. Not every hole had oil, just few. Spark plugs themselves were normal and dry. So i have to deal with valve cover gasket? I noticed that instead of gasket there was like bitumen, some black silicone or something, between the valve cover and engine itself.

[@SuperDavaughn]

how long do u let the stuff u used from the tube stay and sit for before putting on the cover on the engine??

[@waioni808]

thanks for the video, best one so far. I am looking for torque measurements for my 1989 Toyota v6 truck. I need it for valve covers and plnum cover. Is there somewhere I can find measurements for gaskets on engines that you know of? My repair manual has nothing:( Thanks

[@ayyashm24]

I have a 2000 Toyota Solara V6, and I have to change both the front and back valve cover gaskets. As I have been told by others, for these 1MZ-FE V6 Toyota engines, the rear valve cover is a pain in the butt to remove b/c of the removal of the intake manifold. I think I can figure it if I look at it. What I need to know is what the torque specification and the bolt pattern for the valve covers are. Do you know where I can find these specs?

[@Rsrey96]

you are a life saver!

[@hakimgil1238]

can you tell me please i should use or no need"a camshaft hold down tool" for volvo V70 xc??? i 'll be greatfull to hear from,thanks a lot for teaching

[@Scotty23]

How long should I wait before starting the car, letting it idle, and drive, after replacing the valve cover gaskets ? Immediately? A hour ? A couple hours ? A day ?

[@mecaniqueunivers1658]

nice video

[@thomashvnmusic]

Is it the same procedure when the valve cover cracks? I mean if we get another cover from a same but used car will it fit on the engine block with no problems or is it a long shot?

[@henrirummo]

thank you for a very helpful video! just a quick question : when replacing the valve cover, is there a threat that some of the rtv silicone might be pressurised into the chamber which in turn is bad for the engine? cheers!

[@daveebner7126]

Thanks What is the torque for the bolts for a 351 Windsor ?

[@nathsimpson]

Great video :) thanks!

[@iTzW4Ts0n]

Could you do a video on how to do a mini service

[@bmwm30072007]

Some spray glue did went inside the valve cover when you spray. Spray glue will get into the engine oil when engine gets running!. I am not sure how much damage can do to the engine.

[@stephenfarris9799]

Ben I don't have a manual to know exactly where to put the RTV on my 2009 toyota camry. Would it be ok to just use the RTV around the whole valve cover ? Thank you

[@tyronewalker5764]

my 2k dodge dakota is in the shop for this very thing. what will i gain after the gasket is replaced? more horse power?

[@dobisayek]

+Tyrone Walker , No added horse power, only girls follow you now!!!

[@tyronewalker5764]

+Sid G. No they don't.

[@dobisayek]

ok, then you won't have oil leak & smell of burnt oil inside, best of all, better compression,which could've positive effect on performance!(Happy Motoring!)

[@ragingmcqueen]

With a dodge Dakota the last thing you should worry about is horsepower gain

[@Omarsito318]

Do you need silicon glue on every engine? Mine is a hyundai tiburon and is leaking pretty bad?

[@Trixtah]

Less is more. Too much gunk will actually interfere with the nice seal you're trying to make with the four surfaces (two sides of the gasket, the engine head and the cover). The RTV is being used here for the rounded surfaces. Putting it where there is a nice straight surface is a waste, and introduces more possibility of lumps/air pockets.

[@SakisDafou]

black or red RTV is specific for this job? i cand find new gaskets for my polo 6n and i must put RTV.so which one to buy,black or red?

[@zkomins]

Do you need to wait for RTV to set before turning on engine?

[@brainstorm4207]

Zach Komins not on a valve cover. oil pan...maybe. give it an hour to be safe

[@SketchyAntix]

Yes. Valve covers get hot, so allow the RTV to sit preferably for 24 hours for a full cure

[@revolutionday1]

There's some stuff in a can called "high-tack gasket sealant" which is a godsend for doing valve cover gaskets and the like, because you can attach the gasket to the part before reinstalling it, therefore it's almost like having "an extra pair of hands".

[@transahusl1]

do you have a video on how to change gasket valve cover on a 1999 Honda accord 4 cylinder I'm having trouble putting on the gaskets and the bolt grommets

[@ironnuka6986]

+transauno Did you ever figure it out? I have the same car and I'm trying to figure out how hard it's going to be

[@transahusl1]

+Iron Nuka it is hard i put it on but the gask is coming out a little

[@ironnuka6986]

transauno Damn, when you took it off did it kinda look like this one in the vid? I think I can get it lined up once its off, I just wanna know what it looks like underneath first. Did you use the tacky stuff?

[@katiekellar2714]

is this something a newbie mechanic could do without much worry

[@jaredj.6915]

how long do I have to drive the car after replacing? I tried it myself on an Opel Vectra...should I drive it for 10 mins? 1hr? all day?

[@chiil034]

Make sure your PCV system is working properly before doing the valve cover gasket. Otherwise, you'll be replacing it again in no time at all.

[@patricesacul9005]

How much does it cost to replace a value cover gasket on a 1988 Dodge Dynasty? Thank you

[@luisbarajas1800]

What order do you use on putting back nut on valve cove 2001vw jetter1.8

[@kenssd]

thanks!!

[@buddapest2001]

i have a 2003 pontiac aztek and i am trying to replace the valve cover gasket. but i am having trouble even getting to it... plz help me

[@FuhChe]

Thank you sir. Just saved me 200+ tax at my local mechanic!

[@suprawack]

Fuh Che $200 to replace a valve cover gasket? Oh No

[@ucantrefuse03]

I love a good 900

[@جاسممحمد-س6ر]

Can you check for me if my car need adding selicon or not my car chovrolet opetra 2011 1.6

[@ivanbrewer1514]

Looking for information to fix leaking valve cover on 409 those rectangles are easy

[@Soveliss1986]

What if you don't have an owner's Manual where is the best place to look for one

[@UpToSpeedOnJaguar]

Any other maintenance I should do while I have my valve cover off?

[@mylra4689]

kenthed45 maybe PCV VALVE

[@calincampbell5637]

Myl Ra lol I did mine without the cover off and it was such a bitch having the cover off would definitely make it much easier

[@auginater4200]

My two middle bolts wont go back in after i completely unfastened them unlike you did PLZ help

[@lexusfan100]

hi Ben can you check my youtube home page under " rattling noise" to see if you can figure out that noise. its not the converter or muffler or heat shield loose. thanks

[@ericgonzales6361]

Would like some information on a 1988 Isuzu trooper 2

[@semarjitsingh8213]

What is the name of the adhesive to stick gasket on cover, please reply

[@shortdom107]

I fixed tie rods,brakes,rotors,rack and pinion,power steering line twice and power steering pump in my car it's in top shape but this I have a question I decided I'm done putting money into the car Is it worth for me to fix the 1,000 job with the oil pan and valve cover gasket or would you just leave it and keep oil in it because Cadillacs leak anyways or would you just fix the valve cover with is about 500 please I can use some help

[@ticos08]

Good video good explanation , there are a couple of mechanics here on you tube sometimes they leave you more confused !! because they give information that is irrelevant to the job on the video ! ...

[@awesomeasfuck100]

I have oil on my spark plug in the number two cylinder, and its been like that the last couple of times that Iv'e changed them, so could this be a probable cause of this?

[@aaronarevalo6512]

yes that is usually the main cause of oil on spark plugs

[@monsiuersmartypants3391]

HOW about replacing a valve cover gasket on a toyota prius second gen. 2007. ive been doing research to no avail. the valove cover is so far in the bumper its really unacessable. any tips help. there arent any toyota pdfs ive been able to find either.

[@Mynameism1k3]

you have to gap the new spark plugs correctly before you drop them in

[@joseribamaralvesdesousasou1819]

gostaria que o vídeo fosse em português! mas muito bom me ajudou a trocar velas!

[@neutralgod300]

I have 1983 s10, V6 2.8L and how can I replace the inside of Valve Cover or cleaning it? because I sandblast it!I'm afraid it had some sand in it and I don't want to put it back to screw up my engine! what can I do??? thank you

[@louiserivard9165]

how do you replace a down stream o2 sensor 2004 Toyota Tacoma 4x4

[@microbiologysecondstage5672]

please what is the type of spray ?

[@Njennings42]

The gasket tack is not necessary is it? I have everything else to do this job, just don't want to foul it up.

[@edwardalamo2507]

You never use a metal scraper, wood or plastic, only one side gets adhesive the valve cover

[@danswrath147]

Well i consulted the Haynes Manuel and did everything the book said and my engine is leaking like a water fountain i don't know what to do.

[@iknowdeweybrudda6564]

Daniel Wallace braaaa

[@mirandasi8302]

2016 porsche macan valve cover gasket set replacement labor cost is $516.. is that even reasonable for just labor?

[@cedricfocht8023]

For a Porsche? Yes. Lol.

[@jakoblopez5934]

When he flipped it over the intense was real

[@SamyRady]

hay i need to do this for vauxhall vectra . my english is not good because i am from egypt so can you guys help me and tell me what i should search for valve cover gasket what exactlly .. my car is vauxhall vectra 2006 1.8v i just want to know what part i should buy then i can take it to garage or ask freinds to help me through . :( i can fix electornic but not mechanical problems :D . thanks for the vedio

[@perlagutierrez3082]

Wats the name of the adhesive

[@bookguitarguy]

I love how you skipped the hardest part, where you remove rtv/gasket material from the head without letting it fall into the valve stem holes, etc. LOL. :O) Maybe you didn't have much residue on the head... but on my Dodge Ram Van/318 engine, there's quite a bit, and very little room to work during the scraping off process. Uggh. The entire head surface is level but rough, almost "pitted" all around the surface-not smooth as I was hoping. Was planning to use RTV on valve cover side of gaskets (2) only, as recommended by Mopar people, but maybe I should put some on both sides of the gaskets, and just hope I don't have to take the valve covers off anytime soon ($16.99 a pop).

[@JacobBecomesIsrael]

bookguitarguy Can't you just take some plastic and cover the valve stem holes? Seems like a simple soln to a really potentially serious problem.

[@bookguitarguy]

Jacob Becomes Israel Hmmm... I'll have to think about that next time... the job's already done. I can't see how that could be done, considering the location of the valve lifter holes/guides. The holes are recessed below the surface of the head (ie, below where the valve cover bolts to the head), but more importantly, the valve lifters go up and down within those holes (ie, passageways), so I don't see any way to seal them without interfering with the up and down motion of the valve lifters... Removing the rocker arms to slide some kind of plastic "gasket" over the lifters, and down to the holes might work (like a plastic washer around the lifters), but it would have to be loose-fitting so it did'nt interfere in the lifter movement. Seems like asking for trouble anyway, if plastic was to ever break loose and fall into the holes... but the job was finished some time ago, and everything's working fine. It's not something I have to mess with very often, and hopefully not for a few years, but I appreciate the suggestion, and it's something to think about. :O)