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The last thing that Audi owners expect from their vehicles is for the car to develop problems. These vehicles normally cost a pretty penny due to the standard and quality that the manufacturer has put into their designs. Audis are not only excellent performers, but they also offer safety and comfort in an elegant and sleek manner that is simply irresistible.

For this reason, Audis are held to a higher standard by car owners. However, these vehicles are not immune to mechanical issues which usually plague all other vehicles. One of the most common problems that Audis develop over time is the valve cover oil leakage. The valve cover is a component located within the engine whose purpose is to protect the valve train. The valve train is made up of a number of components that are responsible for the regulation of fuel and air flow into the cylinders in the engine as well as the exhaust gases from the internal combustion process.

The valve cover in the Audi is located at the top of each cylinder head to ensure that the fuel does not leak out of the engine and there is no damage to the valve train components.

Causes of Valve Cover Damage

The main cause of valve cover damage is the usual wear that affects different car parts after they have covered several hundred-thousand miles. These valve covers are often made of plastic, and regardless of how fortified this material is, it is still delicate and prone to deterioration. Temperature changes in the engine also cause the valve cover to expand and contract. This can lead to the development of cracks in the cover.

In addition, a faulty valve cover gasket seal can also compromise the functions of the valve cover. The valve cover gasket seal is responsible for securing the valve cover in place on top of the cylinder. This device is made up of a fortified rubber material that can easily become degraded over time, causing the valve cover to become loose and start to leak.

Effects of Valve Cover Oil Leaks

Valve cover damage allows oil from the engine to start leaking out into the other parts of the engine. In fact, it goes without say that this can have devastating effects on the engine and even impair engine performance significantly. In fact, if left unchecked for a long time, valve cover oil leaks can cause extensive damage to the engine, thereby necessitating a complete overhaul. Replacing the entire engine in your Audi can be an extremely expensive affair, especially if it is an unplanned expense.

Symptoms of Valve Cover Oil Leaks

Some of the signs that you will notice in your Audi in the event of a valve cover leak include:

• The smell of burning oil from the engine bay. This is as a result of the oil dripping into the extremely hot parts of the engine and getting ignited in the process.
• Misfiring engine due to the leaking oil finding its way into the spark plugs. This impairs the ignition function of the plugs and causes the engine to misfire.
• Oil stains will also remain under the front end of your car when there is a leak. Depending on the size of the leak, you will either have small stains or even puddles of brown fluid, pointing to a larger leak.

Leaking oil from the engine will generally have devastating effects on the engine performance and make your driving experience quite unpleasant. For this reason, you should endeavor to have it fixed as soon as possible.

How to Handle Valve Cover Oil Leaks

Valve covers can easily be repaired by following simple steps. Unfortunately, not many people happen to be DIY enthusiasts, and they would rather have someone else take care of their repairs. Seeking the help of a professional mechanic will make it easier to get the replacement done correctly and without leaving room for future troubles that may arise from improper installation.

At Glenwood Foreign Car, we have certified technicians with extensive experience in handling luxury brands, such as the Audi. We are available to offer our excellent services to Audi drivers in and around Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA. We are only a phone call away from helping you get your Audi back on the road. Simply call us for an appointment. We will do the rest.