Do I need to replace the entire set if the valve is damaged?

[JaylaAnn]

It is necessary to inspect and confirm the extent of damage to the valve before deciding whether to replace the entire set. Below are recommendations based on the damage condition: 1. Minor damage: You can purchase the parts and replace them yourself or have a professional at a 4S shop replace the parts. After replacement, make sure to perform grinding. 2. Severe damage: If the valve is severely damaged and unusable, affecting driving safety, the entire set of valves must be replaced. After replacement, ensure proper break-in with the cylinder head to prevent air leaks. 3. Seek professional advice: Consult a professional to inspect the extent of valve damage and ultimately determine whether replacement is necessary.

[George]

A bent valve could be caused by a broken timing belt or piston impact, and you don't necessarily need to replace the entire set of valves immediately. I've been repairing cars for many years and have seen this situation multiple times. Generally, you should disassemble the engine to check which valve is bent. If only one is bent, the piston isn't damaged, and the valve seat is still intact, then replacing just that single component can save you some money. However, you must carefully inspect the valve guide and spring; otherwise, even with a new valve installed, air leakage could occur, leading to engine weakness or increased fuel consumption. If the car has been running for a long time and the valves are already aged and worn, replacing the entire set might be more reliable for long-term safety. It's best to have a mechanic inspect the internal condition with a borescope before proceeding to avoid secondary damage. Regularly replacing the timing belt can prevent such issues from happening.

[LucilleAnn]

Last time my old car had a bent valve, and it made a chaotic drum-like noise when starting. When I took it for inspection, the mechanic said it didn't necessarily need a complete replacement. The cause was mostly related to the timing system, like a loose belt. Upon closer inspection, only one valve was damaged, while other components were still in good condition. After replacing the valve, the car improved. However, if cracks are found on the valve seat or the guide is worn, it's more convenient to replace the entire set. Don't panic over such minor issues; the key is to make a decision after a thorough inspection. I later developed a habit of regular maintenance, replacing timing components every two years to reduce risks.

[McElizabeth]

Whether to replace the entire set when a valve is damaged depends on your budget. If money is tight, replacing just the single valve will do, costing only a few hundred bucks—but make sure the piston isn't damaged, or the repair is pointless. A full set replacement can easily run into thousands—worth it? Depends on the car's condition: a single fix works for newer cars, but older ones are better off with a full replacement for long-term peace of mind. Don’t skimp on inspections—if the issue worsens and causes leaks, fuel costs will skyrocket. Get a cheap garage to assess it; the most cost-effective approach is preventive maintenance, like timely timing chain replacements.