Engine Mechanical
Valve Cover
The valve cover seals the top of the cylinder head and keeps oil in around the camshafts and valve train. We list 33 valve covers from $42 to $539 for 1968-2022 vehicles, from Dorman, Edelbrock, SKP and TRQ, with many for the Chevrolet Camaro and others for the BMW 328i and Nissan Altima.
Shop valve cover by vehicle
Why valve covers fail
Many modern valve covers are plastic and include built in parts such as the PCV valve or oil separator. With heat, the plastic can crack or warp, and the PCV diaphragm can tear.
Signs include oil leaking down the side of the engine, a burning oil smell, a whistle or hiss from the cover, rough idle and lean codes caused by a vacuum leak. Leaks from the gasket alone may need only a new gasket.
Left, right and finishes
V engines have a left and a right valve cover, which are often different parts. Inline engines usually have one. Check the position on the listing.
Performance covers from brands such as Edelbrock come in natural, matte or chrome finishes and may be taller to clear roller rockers. For a stock engine, a direct replacement cover with the same PCV and breather layout is the simplest choice. Check whether gaskets and bolts are included.
Installation tips
Let the engine cool. Remove the ignition coils or plug wires and any hoses connected to the cover. Note the bolt pattern and torque sequence.
Clean the head surface and fit the new gasket dry or with sealant only where the service manual calls for it, usually at the cam cap corners. Torque the bolts in sequence and do not overtighten. Use the fitment table for engine size, as one model may offer several engines.
Valve Cover questions
Can I just replace the valve cover gasket instead?
If the cover is not cracked or warped and the PCV system works, a new gasket is often enough. Replace the cover if it is damaged or has a failed built in PCV valve.
Do valve covers come with a gasket?
Many do. Listings show contents such as gasket and bolts, or valve cover and gasket. Check the package contents before ordering a separate gasket. A new gasket should always go on with a new cover.
Why is there oil on my spark plugs?
Oil in the spark plug tubes usually comes from worn tube seals, which are often part of the valve cover gasket set. Replace them with the gasket.