Lately, I've been hearing a lot about the PCV valve and the various tubes connected to it. Does anyone know of a good guide for checking/replacing/maintenicing them?

 

Upgrade to the redesigned version. Late '05 & up. I would also recommend getting the '05 & later PCV hose.

 

So, the issue is only on pre 05 versions? If so, good, cause I have an 06.

 

Well not so fast. It seems like there are PCV valve problems even with '06 models despite the tweaks that were made to the part (check out the Mazda6 Club site). There seems to be two things that you can do to redcue the chance of being the victim of a blown valve:

*Add a 2nd PCV valve inline with the original. The idea is that the 2nd valve would act as a back up in the event that one fails by minimizing the chance of all the oil being sucked out of the engine.

*Routine maintainace (some say at 12,000 mile periods, but I think that every oil change would be good) of the valve and all associated plumbing. See this link from Pat Goss.

Other than than you can just get the 4-cyl. model and be done with it. But be vigilant;if you notice any sign of excessive oil consupiton, get your car checked out. BTW, I also own an '06 S and hope to God that this doesn't become an issue for me.

 

Me personally, I think that the PCV issue is made out to be too much of a huge deal. If someone can spend X amount on modifying their car, they can surely spend the $10 or so & change the valve every couple 1,000 miles. If it was not the PCV valve, it would probably be something else people would panic about. Just my 2 cents .

 

Well, unless it breaks, and they don't know about it (like, say, in the middle of a 200 mile trip?).

 

I think that regualr maintananceis key. How many miles do you have on your car? I'm a bit over 41,000 and will be getting mine changed this weekend. Based on things I've read about the PCV's in general, it seems thatopinins vary as to how often theyshould be replaced. I've read estimates ranging from 12,000 to 30,000 miles.

 

I've got around 28k on my car, and I'm thinking I'm going to get an inline valve, and a replacement pcv valve. When I change them in, I'll see if anything else needs fixing.

Also, this is another reason why I want an oil pressure gauge. I just can't figure out way to put it, because I don't want to lose the dash compartment.