How Much Is a PCV Valve for an Audi A4?

A PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve for an Audi A4 typically ranges from about $30 to $180 in the United States for the part alone, depending on model year, engine type, and whether you buy an OEM or aftermarket assembly; installed at a shop, the total can run from roughly $180 to $600. These figures reflect common market prices as of late 2024 and can vary by region, retailer, and labor rates.

What the PCV Valve Does—and Why Its Price Varies

The PCV valve is a small but critical emissions and engine‑health component. In the Audi A4—especially on modern turbocharged TFSI engines—it often comes integrated in a larger PCV/oil separator assembly rather than as a single cheap plastic valve. That design choice, along with brand, model year, and labor complexity, is why prices for the part and for replacement can differ widely from one A4 to another.

Typical Price Range for Audi A4 PCV Valves

When car owners ask how much a PCV valve costs for an Audi A4, they usually want to know both the price of the part itself and the likely installed cost at a workshop. Below is a breakdown of realistic ranges for current market conditions.

• PCV valve / PCV assembly (part only): approximately $30–$180 (USD)
• OEM (Audi / VW genuine) assemblies: generally around $90–$180
• Aftermarket brands: roughly $30–$120, depending on brand reputation and warranty
• Online vs. dealer pricing: online parts retailers often undercut dealer parts counters by 10–30%
• Used or salvage parts: can be cheaper, but are rarely recommended for PCV components due to wear and age

Overall, most Audi A4 owners can expect to pay under $200 for the part in most markets, with lower costs for older engines using simpler valves and higher prices for newer integrated PCV/oil separator units.

Installed Cost: Parts Plus Labor

The total cost of replacing a PCV valve on an Audi A4 is heavily influenced by labor time, which depends on engine layout and how much needs to be removed to access the unit.

• Labor time: commonly 0.8–2.5 hours, depending on generation (B6/B7/B8/B9) and engine (1.8T, 2.0 TFSI/TFSI, V6, etc.)
• Typical independent shop labor rate: about $110–$180 per hour in many U.S. metro areas
• Dealer labor rate: often $160–$250+ per hour, varying by region
• Estimated installed cost at an independent shop: about $180–$450 total
• Estimated installed cost at a dealer: about $250–$600 total, especially on newer models

For many owners, the final bill tends to sit roughly in the $250–$400 range if no other parts or complications arise, though dealer prices and high local labor rates can push this higher.

How Prices Differ by Audi A4 Generation

The Audi A4 has evolved through several generations and engine families, and that evolution is reflected in the cost and complexity of its PCV system. The following overview gives a sense of typical part-price ranges by era, assuming U.S. market availability and widely used engine variants.

• B6/B7 (approx. 2002–2008, 1.8T and early 2.0T): simpler PCV setups; many components are standalone valves and hoses. Individual PCV valves can be around $30–$90.
• B8 (approx. 2009–2016, 2.0 TFSI and V6 options): PCV incorporated in plastic valve cover–top assemblies or larger breather units, often $70–$160, with OEM often at the higher end.
• B9 (approx. 2017–present, 2.0 TFSI EA888 and later engines): more integrated crankcase ventilation modules; genuine parts frequently in the $100–$180 range, sometimes higher if part of a larger cover assembly.
• Diesel variants (where applicable): PCV/oil separator components can be more specialized, with pricing similar to or higher than TFSI units depending on the exact part number.

These ranges are broad but illustrate a general trend: newer models with integrated PCV modules cost more per part, even though the component fulfills a similar basic function across generations.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: What You’re Paying For

One of the biggest factors in PCV valve pricing is whether you choose an original-equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket alternative. Each path has its own cost and risk profile.

OEM (Genuine Audi / VW Group) PCV Parts

Car owners who prioritize manufacturer specifications and warranty compatibility often lean toward OEM components. These usually come with a higher price tag but greater peace of mind regarding fitment.

• Price range: typically $90–$180 for PCV assemblies on recent A4 models
• Advantages: exact fit, tested for the specific engine, typically stronger support from dealers and shops
• Drawbacks: higher upfront cost, and sometimes the need to buy a complete assembly instead of just the failing internal valve
• Best suited for: newer vehicles under warranty, owners planning to keep the car long term, or those dealing with repeated PCV-related issues

For many Audi A4 owners, particularly with newer B8 or B9 cars, OEM PCV units are the default choice recommended by dealerships and specialist shops.

Aftermarket PCV Valves and Assemblies

Aftermarket manufacturers offer lower-cost alternatives that can still meet or approach OEM specifications, but quality varies widely by brand and supplier.

• Price range: roughly $30–$120 for most Audi A4 PCV units
• Advantages: lower cost, wider availability from online retailers, and sometimes upgraded designs addressing known OEM weaknesses
• Drawbacks: inconsistent quality between brands, potential fitment issues, and shorter or more limited warranties in some cases
• Best suited for: out-of-warranty vehicles, budget repairs, or when working with a trusted independent shop familiar with specific aftermarket brands

Owners choosing aftermarket generally save money upfront, but it’s important to research brands and reviews, especially for components like PCV valves that can affect drivability and emissions.

Additional Costs You May Encounter

While the PCV valve or assembly is the headline item, related parts and services can add modestly to the total bill, especially on older or high-mileage Audi A4s.

• Gaskets and seals: $5–$40 for valve cover gaskets, O-rings, or sealing rings that may need replacement during PCV work
• Hoses and connectors: $10–$80 if brittle or cracked breather hoses and clips must be replaced at the same time
• Diagnostic fee: $80–$180 if a shop spends time confirming the PCV is the root cause of issues such as rough idle or oil consumption
• Software reset or adaptations: sometimes a small additional charge if the shop uses factory diagnostic tools after the repair
• Bundled work: mechanics may recommend combining PCV replacement with valve cover gaskets or spark plugs to save on labor

These extras don’t usually double the cost, but they can push a PCV job from the low end of estimates toward the middle or upper range, especially when preventative maintenance is added.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your Specific Audi A4

Because “Audi A4” covers multiple generations and engines, the only way to get a precise number is to tie the quote to your exact vehicle details and local labor rates.

• Have your VIN ready: shops and parts counters can use it to identify the exact PCV part number and any superseded revisions
• Specify your engine code: codes like EA888 2.0 TFSI help avoid confusion between similar A4 engines
• Call multiple sources: compare a dealer quote, a trusted independent Audi/VW specialist, and at least one online OEM/aftermarket retailer
• Ask about included items: confirm whether quotes cover gaskets, clamps, and diagnostic time as well as the PCV unit itself
• Request a line-item estimate: breaking down parts and labor makes it easier to see where savings may be possible

By collecting a few tailored quotes, most Audi A4 owners can quickly determine whether their local pricing aligns with the general ranges described here—and where they might save without cutting corners on quality.

Summary

For an Audi A4, the PCV valve—or more often, a PCV/oil separator assembly—typically costs about $30–$180 for the part alone, depending on model year, engine, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket. Including labor, most owners see total bills between roughly $180 and $600, with independent shops usually at the lower end and dealerships at the higher end. Newer, more integrated systems are more expensive, while older models with simpler valves remain relatively cheap to service. For the most accurate figure, it’s essential to use your car’s VIN and engine details and obtain itemized quotes from both dealer and independent repair options.

Is replacing a PCV valve expensive?

The average cost to replace a PCV valve is between $65 and $220, depending on the vehicle and labor costs. For many cars, the replacement is inexpensive and simple, with parts costing as little as $2 to $15 and labor around 15 to 45 minutes. However, the price can increase significantly for vehicles where the valve is difficult to access and requires more extensive engine disassembly. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The PCV valve itself is typically inexpensive, ranging from about $2 to $35 for basic aftermarket parts, while OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts can cost between $25 and $75. 
• Labor: Labor costs can vary, but a typical job takes 15 to 45 minutes. Some shops may charge a minimum of one hour, which can range from about $50 to $150. 
• Total: The total average cost is between $65 and $220, with some sources citing an average of $186 to $220. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Accessibility: If the PCV valve is in a difficult-to-reach location, the labor time will increase, driving up the total cost. In some luxury or modern engines, the valve may be integrated into the valve cover, making replacement more labor-intensive and expensive.
• Vehicle make and model: The cost of the part and the complexity of the job can differ depending on your car.
• Shop type: Prices can vary between dealerships, independent mechanics, and specialty repair shops. 

What to consider

• DIY vs. professional repair: If you are comfortable with basic car maintenance, replacing a PCV valve is a relatively easy DIY job that can save you money on labor. 
• Get multiple quotes: Before committing to a repair, it’s a good idea to get quotes from a few different mechanics to compare prices. 
• Look for a bad valve: Symptoms of a failing PCV valve include rough idling, misfires, oil leaks, or increased oil consumption. 

How do I know if my Audi A4 PCV valve is bad?

One very common sign of a bad PCV valve is a whistling or hissing sound coming from the engine. This can indicate that there is a slight blockage in the PCV valve. A Check Engine warning light can be another sign that you need to replace a PCV valve because the PCV valve impacts vehicle performance and emissions.

Can you drive an Audi with a bad PCV valve?

If the PCV valve fails, you might notice the following symptoms: excessive oil consumption, rough idling/stalling, oil leaks, sludge, and an illuminated check engine light. It’s not advisable to drive with a bad PCV valve because it can cause the gaskets to blow.

How much does it cost to replace a PCV valve on an Audi A4?

The average cost for an Audi A4 PCV Valve Replacement is between $220 and $304.

• Labor costs are estimated between $171 and $251 while parts are priced between $49 and $53.
• This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.