Hello everyone, new to the forums here. Driving a '00 4cyl coupe, 91,000 miles. The boys at tires plus (I understand they aren't the most credible, however....) suggested I get my pcv valve replaced as well as my power steering pump (it has a slight leak). Also need a tune up as well, previous owner did little to no maintenance except for oil changes on the car. I was wondering how soon I should act on these repairs, and in which order. I am a bit strapped for cash as I am a college student. I would like to get one repair done a month to ease the financial burden on myself. Would appreciate any help/input. Thanks.

 

If you DIY, the tuneup and PVC should cost less than $50-$60.

The PVC valve is something you can pick up at the dealership and replace very quickly.

A normal tuneup is spark plugs and air filter. A honda distributor cap and distributor rotor can last a while on your car as well as the spark plug wires.

Take a look in your owner's manual to find out when the spark plugs are due for a change in the maintenance section. Only use the NGK plugs that are recommended in the owner's manual. I think your plugs are due at 90K, but I am not sure.

The plugs and air filter aren't bad DIY jobs if you have some basic tools.

Keep an eye on your power steering fluid level. Add only Honda power steering fluid.

 

I'm not usually a DIY guy, never fixed anything myself. However, if it's anything easily accessible and doesn't involve complicated tools, I will consider doing it myself. Is the PCV valve something a newbie could fix on their own?

 

Heres a pic. I believe the PCV valve right above the "T" in VTEC

 

Yes, that grey plastic elbow IS the PCV valve. Check the rubber hose also, it might be cracking, softening, collapsing, etc...

 

Found the valve for $23, the grommet for $4, and the hose for $7. Not bad compared to the $100 it would have cost at the shop. Going to try and replace it myself. Thanks for the help guys.

 

I just paid $2.99 for the PCV valve at Autozone - why is the one you found so expensive?

 

Its the OEM Honda part from the dealership. I just want to make sure its compatible, preferably the same one as the old valve that's in place at the moment. Could I get away with a different aftermarket brand?

 

IMO, I would stick with the Honda one. They seem to last a very long time.

 

Would the valve vary much between the EX, LX, DX of the same year? Sorry if this seems like a dumb question.