How to Replace the Valve Cover Gasket in a Hyundai Sonata

If your 2002 to 2005 Hyundai Sonata has an oil leak or smoke coming from the engine, it is time to replace the valve cover gasket. If the check oil light is coming on or if you have driven more than 100,000 miles, it is time to perform this maintenance so that you do not experience the smoking engine or the costly oil leaks.

Instructions

1

Visit your local automotive parts supply store. Purchase the necessary supplies and tools to complete the maintenance. This maintenance can be performed with parts that are sold at your local automotive parts supply store.

2

Find a location to perform the maintenance. Allow the car to cool. This can be accomplished by parking the car and letting it sit for several hours.

3

Lift the hood and disconnect the battery cable before starting the maintenance. Locate and remove the PCV valve connector clamp and the hose. Locate and disconnect the ignition coil wires and plugs. Locate the valve cover gasket bolts and, using a wrench, remove them. Remove the valve cover gasket.

4

Remove the old gasket. The gasket may be hard to remove. If you find this to be the case, using a flathead screwdriver, gently nudge the gasket to coax it out of the gasket seating area.

5

Clean clean the gasket seating area with the automotive engine cleaner, scrub brush and clean cloth rag, clearing it of all debris, oil or other particles that may have been left when the old gasket was removed.

6

Place the new gasket in the gasket seating area. Replace the valve cover and using the wrench tighten the bolts in sequence, starting in the middle and working outward.

7

Put the parts back into place by reversing the steps used to remove the parts. Make sure that everything is reconnected. Add oil to the car and start the engine. Allow the car to run idle for 10 to 15 minutes. This will allow the oil to move to the top of the engine, lubricating the parts as it does.