stefancrystal9

Mercedes G Klasse Diesel Engine Trouble

My 2011 Mercedes G Klasse with a diesel engine is giving me fits. Check engine light's on, feels like I'm towing a boat anchor when I accelerate, and there's this nasty smoke puffing out the back. I'm thinking it's the crankcase ventilation valve, that PCV thing. Anyone else run into this? Could a busted PCV cause all this? Thinking it's emissions related, but I'm not sure. Gotta get this thing fixed, it's my baby!

4 comment(s)

I had something similar happen on my Mercedes, not the G, though. Reduced power and smoke are definitely not cool. It could be the PCV valve, yeah. When those go bad, they can mess with the engine's air-fuel mixture and cause all sorts of problems. Have you checked for any obvious leaks or damage around the valve itself? It's worth a look before you start throwing parts at it. But I would prepare for a costly repair. Maintenance is key with these cars.

No obvious leaks, but I'm no mechanic. Where exactly IS the PCV valve on these engines? Is it something I can get to without dismantling half the engine? Also, how long did you drive yours with the issue? I'm trying to gauge how urgent this is.

On mine, the PCV valve was a pain to get to, buried under some other stuff. I wouldn't recommend messing with it unless you're really comfortable working on engines. Driving it with a bad PCV can cause more damage, like oil leaks and increased wear. I'd suggest getting it checked out by a shop sooner rather than later. It sounds like the valve is gone and the emissions are off the roof.

Appreciate the advice. Took it to the shop, and you nailed it – PCV valve was toast. New valve and labor cost me 360€. Runs like a dream now! No more smoke, power is back, and the check engine light is gone. Thanks again for the help!

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