How Much It Costs to Replace a Valve Cover Gasket on a Honda CR‑V
Expect to pay about $150–$350 at an independent shop and $220–$500 at a dealership in the U.S. to replace a Honda CR‑V valve cover gasket in 2025; DIY parts typically run $20–$70. Prices vary with model year, local labor rates, and whether related seals or spark plugs are replaced at the same time.
Contents
Typical Price Ranges (U.S., 2025)
While final pricing depends on your location and engine generation, these are the going market ranges most owners encounter for a straightforward gasket swap with no complications.
- Independent shop: $150–$350 total (parts $20–$70, labor 0.7–1.5 hours at $110–$180/hr)
- Dealer service department: $220–$500 total (higher labor rates; OEM parts)
- Mobile mechanic: $160–$320 total (convenience may add a modest premium or travel fee)
- DIY: $20–$70 for a quality gasket set (plus RTV as specified), assuming you have basic tools
These ranges cover most non-turbo and 1.5T CR‑V engines under normal conditions; add-ons or seized hardware can push costs higher.
Parts and Labor: What You’re Paying For
Valve cover gasket jobs are primarily labor-driven but still benefit from quality parts to prevent repeat leaks. Here’s how the bill typically breaks down.
- Parts: $20–$70 for a gasket set (aftermarket to OEM). Many sets include spark plug tube seals and valve cover bolt grommets.
- Labor time: 0.7–1.5 hours for most CR‑V engines; 1.0–1.8 hours is possible on turbo or cramped bays.
- Shop labor rates: Commonly $110–$200 per hour, depending on region and facility.
- Shop supplies/taxes: $5–$25 in miscellaneous charges (RTV sealant, rags, disposal, etc.).
If the job expands—adding spark plugs, a PCV valve, or replacing a cracked valve cover—the parts and labor totals will increase accordingly.
Model-Year and Engine Estimates
Different CR‑V generations have small variations in access and time required. These ballpark totals assume no complications and U.S. average labor rates.
- 1997–2001 (B20): $140–$300 total; labor ~0.7–1.0 hr; parts $20–$50
- 2002–2011 (K24 series): $150–$320 total; labor ~0.8–1.2 hr; parts $25–$60
- 2012–2016 (K24Z7): $160–$340 total; labor ~0.9–1.2 hr; parts $25–$60
- 2017–2022 1.5T (L15B7): $180–$380 total; labor ~1.0–1.5 hr; parts $25–$65
- 2023–2025 1.5T (L15BE) and 2.0 Hybrid: $180–$400 total; labor ~1.0–1.6 hr; parts $25–$70
Turbo and hybrid packaging can add a bit of time, but the job remains firmly in the “light/medium” category for most technicians.
What Can Increase the Price
Quotes may rise if your CR‑V needs more than just the perimeter gasket. These are common add-ons and curveballs shops may encounter.
- Spark plug tube seals/bolt grommets: Often included in a “full” gasket set; small labor add if separate
- New spark plugs: $60–$160 parts and labor depending on plug type (ideal time to do them)
- PCV valve replacement: $20–$80 parts and labor
- Cracked/warped valve cover: $120–$300 for the cover plus 0.2–0.5 hr additional labor
- Oil-soaked ignition coil boots or coils: $15–$200 per cylinder, depending on what’s needed
- Stuck/stripped fasteners or heavy cleaning: Adds labor time beyond the normal book rate
Addressing related wear items during the same visit can prevent repeat labor charges later, even if it raises the current invoice slightly.
How Long the Repair Takes
Most shops complete a CR‑V valve cover gasket in about 1–2 hours including test, clean-up, and leak check. DIYers should set aside an unhurried afternoon, especially if it’s a first-time attempt.
Smart Times to Bundle Maintenance
Because the ignition components are already accessible, many owners use this repair to tackle other service items in one visit.
- Spark plugs (especially on 1.5T direct-injection models)
- PCV valve and related hoses if brittle or clogged
- Ignition coil boots or coils if oil-soaked or aged
- Valve cover bolt grommets and the oil filler cap seal
- Engine air filter or an oil change if due
Bundling can reduce total labor over time and helps prevent misfires or fresh leaks soon after the gasket repair.
Signs Your Valve Cover Gasket Is Leaking
Not sure you need the repair yet? These are the most common indicators that the gasket has hardened or failed.
- Burning-oil smell after driving or wisps of smoke from oil contacting hot components
- Visible oil seepage around the valve cover perimeter
- Oil in the spark plug wells or on ignition coils, sometimes with misfires
- Drips on the driveway originating high on the engine
- Fresh oil residue near the firewall or exhaust manifold area
A quick inspection with a flashlight can confirm whether the leak originates at the valve cover versus another gasket or seal.
Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners
There are sensible ways to keep costs under control while maintaining reliability and safety.
- Get two to three quotes from reputable independent shops
- Use a quality aftermarket gasket (Fel-Pro, Victor Reinz) or OEM to avoid re-doing the job
- Schedule spark plugs during the same visit to avoid paying duplicate labor later
- Watch for seasonal coupons or service bundles
- DIY only if you’re comfortable with torque specs, RTV use, and careful surface prep
Quality parts and proper torque are key; a cheap gasket or overtightened bolts often lead to repeat leaks.
Warranty Considerations
Valve cover gaskets are wear items and usually not covered beyond the basic 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Powertrain warranties typically don’t include gaskets unless the leak affects covered components. If your CR‑V is new or certified pre-owned, ask the dealer to check coverage before you pay out of pocket.
Bottom Line
Budget $150–$350 at an independent shop or $220–$500 at a dealer for a Honda CR‑V valve cover gasket replacement in 2025, with DIY parts around $20–$70. Costs rise if you add spark plugs, a PCV valve, or if the valve cover itself is damaged. Bundling related maintenance can save money and prevent future leaks.
Summary
Most CR‑V owners will pay mid–hundreds for a valve cover gasket replacement, driven by 1–2 hours of labor and a modest parts cost. Prices vary by engine generation and shop rates, but combining related maintenance and choosing quality parts delivers the best long-term value.
How much is a valve cover gasket for a 2016 Honda CRV?
The range of prices of Valve Cover Gaskets for the 2016 Honda CR-V goes from $2.38 up to $14.27 for the most premium parts.
Is it worth replacing a valve cover gasket?
Yes, changing your valve cover and head gaskets can be beneficial for several reasons: Preventing Leaks: Over time, gaskets can degrade, leading to oil leaks. Replacing them can help maintain proper engine lubrication and prevent oil loss. Engine Performance: A good seal is essential for optimal engine performance.
How much does it change a mechanic for fixing the valve cover for a Honda?
The average cost for a Honda Civic Valve Cover Gasket Replacement is between $244 and $330. Labor costs are estimated between $164 and $240 while parts are priced between $80 and $90.
How much would a mechanic charge to replace a valve cover gasket?
A valve cover gasket replacement typically costs $110 to $380, but this can vary significantly based on your vehicle’s make and model, with some estimates reaching over $1,500 for luxury or complex engines. The total cost includes the gasket itself, which is relatively inexpensive ($10–$80), and labor, which accounts for the majority of the expense ($100–$300+) due to the time it takes to access and replace the gasket.
Factors influencing cost
- Vehicle Make and Model: The complexity of the engine and the accessibility of the valve cover are major factors.
- Labor Rates: Hourly labor rates can vary from $50 to $150, with the job taking 1 to 3 hours.
- Additional Parts: The job might require new bolts or spark plug tube seals, which will increase the part cost.
- Shop Location: Prices vary depending on whether you choose a dealership, a specialized shop, or an independent mechanic.
- Related Repairs: Sometimes, the valve cover itself might be damaged, requiring replacement, which adds significant cost.
How to get an accurate estimate
- 1. Use Online Tools: Websites like RepairPal or YourMechanic allow you to get a personalized estimate by entering your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
- 2. Contact Local Shops: Call a few local mechanics or dealerships to get specific quotes for your vehicle.
