rainerwagner92
Cavalier engine losing power
Summary of the thread
A 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is experiencing a loss of power, a check engine light, and smoke during acceleration. The initial suspicion is a faulty crankcase ventilation valve, which can cause these symptoms by affecting the air/fuel mixture and potentially leading to vacuum leaks. Given the complexity and potential for further damage, it is advised to have a mechanic diagnose and address the issue.
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4 comment(s)
rainerwagner92 (community.author)
Yeah, the idle is rough sometimes too. The smoke seems more white than blue, I think. If it IS the crankcase ventilation valve, is it something I could try to fix myself, or am I better off taking it to a shop?
jan_roth9
Okay, white smoke could be coolant, but let's not jump to conclusions. Given the rough idle and the other symptoms, and the fact I'm just some dude on the internet, yeah, I'd get a mechanic to take a look. A faulty PCV valve can mess with your air/fuel mixture, cause vacuum leaks, even damage other parts. It's usually a cheap part, but diagnosing it properly is key.
rainerwagner92 (community.author)
Thanks for the input. I'll book it in with a mechanic. Sounds like it's worth the 360€ to get it sorted properly and avoid causing more damage. Appreciate the help!
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CHEVROLET
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CAVALIER
jan_roth9
Sounds familiar. I had a similar issue with my old Saab. Check Engine Light, loss of power… Does it also idle rough? If so, it could very well be your PCV valve - that's the crankcase ventilation valve you mentioned. It's part of the emission control system, dealing with gasses from the crankcase. Is the 'smoke' blue-ish? Because that could be oil getting burned.