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