A purge valve should be replaced when it goes bad to enable the engine to run better and avoid harmful emissions. This is because the purge valve is what prevents harmful fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere, thereby preventing harmful emissions.
Since it is important to replace the purge valve when it goes bad, how long does it take to replace the purge valve in a car?
If there are no complications or additional repairs required, replacing a purge valve takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This includes the time it takes to access and remove the old valve, install the new one, and secure all connections.
How Long Does it Take to Replace a Purge Valve?
Replacing a purge valve should take between 30 minutes to 1 hour to access the old valve, remove it, install the new one, and secure all connections.
However, if the purge valve is in a difficult-to-reach location or if other components need to be moved or removed to access it, the replacement process may take longer. In such cases, it can take 1 to 2 hours or more.
If the mechanic needs to diagnose the issue, test the system, and confirm that the purge valve is indeed the problem, this can add some additional time to the overall process.
Furthermore, issues with the purge valve are sometimes symptoms of more extensive problems within the evaporative emission control system or other parts of the vehicle. If additional repairs or maintenance are needed, the time required will increase accordingly.
If you’re replacing the purge valve yourself, it may take a bit longer than if a professional mechanic is doing it. A DIY enthusiast may need more time to gather tools, consult resources, and follow the replacement steps.
You can’t compare yourself to a mechanic that has replaced purge valves in different vehicles including the brand and model of your car. It will be faster with him since he already knows where the valve is and the nature of things to lose to get to the valve.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Purge Valve?
It can cost between $100 to $500 to replace a purge valve including labor costs. However, factors that determine how much it costs to replace a purge valve are:
- Cost of the Purge Valve: The price of the replacement purge valve itself can vary widely depending on the manufacturer, quality, and whether you choose an OEM or aftermarket part. Purge valves can range from $20 to $100 or more.
- Labor Costs: Labor costs for replacing the purge valve will depend on the shop or mechanic you choose and the local labor rates in your area.
- The complexity of the Job: The complexity of the job, accessibility of the valve, and any additional work required will impact the cost.
- Your Make and Vehicle Model: The brand and model of the vehicle you drive also determines how much you will pay to have the purge valve replaced.
However, if the purge valve issue is a symptom of more extensive problems within the evaporative emission control system or other vehicle components, you may incur additional costs for diagnosing and repairing those issues.
If you have the skills and tools to replace the purge valve yourself, you can save on labor costs. However, you’ll still need to purchase the replacement part, and if you’re not experienced with vehicle repairs, there may be a learning curve and some trial and error involved.
When to Replace Purge Valve in Your Vehicle
The best time to replace the purge valve in your vehicle is when:
1. It Causes the Check Engine Light to Come On
You need to replace the purge valve in your car if it causes an error code that causes a check engine light to come on. If the onboard diagnostics system detects a problem with the purge valve, it will trigger the CEL to come on.
However, you may need to clear the check engine light using an OBD II scanner or by disconnecting the battery first before replacing the valve. If the light comes back on with the same error code pointing to the valve, then it is definitely time to have it replaced.
2. The Purge Valve is Stuck Open or Closed
The purge valve can become stuck open or closed. If it’s stuck open, it can cause a vacuum leak, leading to rough idling, poor acceleration, and poor gas mileage. If it’s stuck closed, it can cause difficulty starting the engine and trigger the CEL. In this case, you need to have it replaced.
3. It Allows Fuel Smell Within the Vehicle
A malfunctioning purge valve can allow fuel vapors to escape, leading to a noticeable fuel odor, especially when refueling or around the vehicle. This is a clear indication that the valve is not functioning correctly and should be replaced immediately
4. It Starts Making Hissing or Whistling Noises
A malfunctioning purge valve can create hissing or whistling noises, which can often be heard while the engine is running. These noises are due to the escape of excess vacuum pressure when the valve is stuck open. Please have it replaced to stop the noise. The vacuum leak will affect the acceleration of the vehicle.
5. It Causes Decrease in Fuel Efficiency
A faulty purge valve can result in a decrease in gas mileage since it affects the proper air-fuel mixture. If you notice a significant drop in miles per gallon (MPG) without any other apparent causes, the purge valve may be to blame.
6. It Causes You to Fail Your Emissions Test
If your car fails emission tests due to high emissions levels, it may be an indicator of a malfunctioning purge valve or another component in the evaporative emission control system. In this case, you should consider replacing the valve.
7. When Your Vehicle Mileage is High
Like many vehicle components, the purge valve can deteriorate over time with high mileage. If your vehicle is older or has significant mileage, it may be a good preventive maintenance measure to replace the purge valve even if you haven’t experienced noticeable issues.
Conclusion
It takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour to replace a purge valve in your vehicle depending on the location of the valve and your level of expertise. The timeframe will increase if there are additional things to repair and if you need to start scanning the car to be sure the purge valve is the cause of the problem you are having with your car.