How Much Is a PCV Valve for an Audi Q5?

The typical cost of a PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve for an Audi Q5 ranges from about $40 to $220 for the part itself in the U.S., depending heavily on model year, engine type, and whether you buy an OEM or aftermarket assembly; installed at a shop, total costs often land between $250 and $650 because on many Audi engines the PCV is integrated into the valve cover or a complex breather assembly rather than being a simple standalone valve.

What the PCV Valve Does — and Why Its Price Varies

The PCV valve is a key emissions and engine health component, routing blow-by gases from the crankcase back into the intake so they can be burned rather than vented to the atmosphere. On many older or simpler engines, the PCV valve is a small, inexpensive part that can be replaced in minutes. On the Audi Q5, particularly with turbocharged engines, the PCV system is usually integrated into a larger breather or valve cover assembly, which pushes the price up and makes labor more involved.

Typical PCV Valve Part Prices for Common Audi Q5 Models

Because Audi has used multiple engines in the Q5—gas, diesel, and mild hybrid variants—the exact PCV component and price can differ. The following ranges reflect current online and dealer pricing as of late 2025 in the U.S. and are meant as realistic ballparks for owners planning maintenance or troubleshooting issues.

The list below outlines approximate part price ranges by common Audi Q5 engine families, assuming you are buying a new replacement PCV/breather assembly.

• 2009–2012 Q5 3.2L V6 (gasoline): $70–$150 (PCV/breather assembly; limited availability, often OEM or premium aftermarket).
• 2009–2017 Q5 2.0 TFSI (EA888 Gen 1/2): $60–$180 (PCV/breather unit on top of the cylinder head; wide aftermarket range).
• 2013–2017 Q5 3.0T V6 (supercharged, gasoline): $120–$220 (PCV valve integrated with breather housing; typically OEM or high-end aftermarket).
• 2014–2016 Q5 3.0 TDI (diesel, in markets where sold): $90–$200 (crankcase breather assembly rather than a simple PCV “valve”).
• 2018–2020 Q5 2.0 TFSI (newer EA888 Gen 3/3B): $80–$200 (PCV integrated into valve cover or top-mounted breather module).
• 2018–2024 SQ5 3.0T (turbo V6): $130–$230 (complex PCV/breather assembly specific to the performance engine).
• Hybrid/plug-in hybrid variants (where applicable): $100–$220 (PCV component typically shared or similar to base 2.0T engine family).

These ranges show that while some Audi Q5 PCV parts remain under $100, the integrated designs on later and higher-performance engines routinely push costs closer to the $200 mark, especially if you choose genuine Audi parts.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: How Choice Affects Price

For Audi Q5 owners, one of the biggest price levers is whether to purchase a genuine OEM part, an OEM-equivalent from an original equipment supplier, or a lower-cost aftermarket component. The decision often involves weighing cost savings against potential reliability and warranty concerns.

The following list explains how the main categories of PCV replacements differ in price and characteristics for the Audi Q5.

• Genuine Audi (OEM) parts from the dealer – Typically $120–$220 for most Q5 PCV/breather assemblies; highest price but guaranteed correct fitment and latest revision. Often preferred on newer or under-warranty vehicles.
• OEM-equivalent brands (e.g., Pierburg, Mahle, Bosch, sometimes branded as “OE Supplier”) – Usually $80–$180; built by the same or similar manufacturers that supply Audi, but sold under their own brand. This is often the value “sweet spot” for many owners.
• Aftermarket value brands – Often $40–$110; attractive prices but quality and longevity can be inconsistent. Some owners report repeated failures or vacuum leaks, which can erase any initial savings.
• Used or salvage parts – $20–$80; generally not recommended for PCV systems because wear, oil contamination, and internal diaphragm fatigue can’t be easily assessed and may reintroduce problems quickly.

For most Q5 drivers, a reputable OEM-equivalent part offers a solid compromise—significant savings compared with the dealer, but without the highest risk of premature failure associated with the cheapest components.

Labor and Total Installed Cost

Although the question focuses on part price, the full bill for fixing a PCV issue can be much higher once labor is included. Access to the PCV assembly on many Audi engines requires removing covers, intake components, or even the supercharger on some 3.0T engines, which increases the job’s complexity and cost.

The list below breaks down typical labor and total cost estimates for a PCV replacement on an Audi Q5 at an independent European specialist versus a dealership.

• Independent European specialist shop – Labor commonly 1.5–3.0 hours depending on engine; at $130–$190 per hour this adds roughly $200–$550. Combined with a $60–$180 part, total is often in the $280–$650 range.
• Audi dealership – Labor rates can be higher, often $180–$260 per hour in many metro areas; with similar or slightly higher booked times, labor typically runs $300–$700. Combined with a $120–$220 OEM part, total can range from about $450 up to $900 in some high-cost regions.
• DIY replacement – Parts only, $60–$220, plus tools and possibly new gaskets or screws. This route is most viable for owners comfortable working on modern turbo engines and following torque specs.

These figures explain why a repair that starts with a sub-$200 part can quickly approach or exceed $500 once labor and shop overhead are factored in, particularly on more complex Q5 engines.

How to Find the Exact Price for Your Audi Q5

Because the PCV setup varies by engine code, model year, and market, the only way to get a precise number is to identify your specific vehicle details and cross-check part numbers across multiple sources.

The list below outlines practical steps to get an accurate price quote tailored to your particular Audi Q5.

1. Identify your VIN and engine code – Your 17-digit VIN is on the windshield and registration; the engine code (e.g., CAEB, CPMA, CREC, CWGD) can usually be found on a sticker in the spare-wheel well, on the timing cover area, or via a dealer or scan tool.
2. Call or message an Audi dealer parts department – Ask for the “PCV valve” or “crankcase ventilation/ breather assembly” price for your VIN. Request the part number and price including any required gaskets or seals.
3. Check reputable online parts sites – Enter your VIN or year/model/engine details on well-known retailers and cross-reference the dealer part number with OEM-equivalent options.
4. Ask a trusted independent shop for a quote – Provide them with your VIN; request both an OEM and an OEM-equivalent quote, including labor and taxes, to compare.
5. Verify if other parts should be replaced concurrently – For example, valve cover gasket, related hoses, or intake seals that are disturbed during the job; adding these while the area is open can prevent future labor duplication.

Following these steps allows you to move from rough estimates to a firm, written quote so you can budget accurately and avoid surprise charges once the car is in the shop.

Signs Your Audi Q5’s PCV Valve May Need Replacement

Knowing when the PCV system is failing can help you decide if the expense is urgent or can be scheduled. On turbocharged engines, PCV issues can cause performance and drivability problems that often mimic other faults.

The list below covers common symptoms that may indicate a failing PCV or crankcase breather on an Audi Q5.

• Rough idle or stalling – A torn diaphragm or stuck PCV valve can create an unmetered air leak, causing unstable idle and, in some cases, occasional stalls.
• Whistling or hissing noises from the valve cover area – High vacuum in the crankcase from a failed PCV diaphragm can generate distinct whistling or squealing sounds.
• Increased oil consumption or blue smoke – A malfunctioning PCV system can draw excessive oil vapor into the intake, resulting in oil usage and visible exhaust smoke.
• Oil leaks appearing or worsening – Abnormally high crankcase pressure due to a blocked PCV path can force oil past gaskets and seals.
• Check Engine Light (CEL) – Fault codes such as lean mixture, misfires, or specific crankcase ventilation errors may appear in a diagnostic scan.

These symptoms do not prove a PCV failure by themselves, but they are strong prompts to have the system inspected, especially if multiple signs appear simultaneously on an aging or high-mileage Q5.

Is a Cheaper PCV Valve a False Economy?

Given that the PCV part cost is often modest compared with the labor, the temptation to buy the least expensive version can be strong. However, modern turbocharged engines are sensitive to vacuum leaks and crankcase ventilation problems, so part quality carries more weight than in simpler applications.

The following list summarizes key considerations when deciding whether to save money on a cheaper PCV valve for your Audi Q5.

• Labor dominates total cost – If access is difficult, a premature failure of a bargain PCV can mean paying most of the labor twice, erasing any initial savings.
• Engine performance and longevity – Poor-quality PCV components can lead to chronic vacuum leaks, increased oil consumption, and carbon buildup, all of which undermine engine health.
• Warranty and resale – Using non-OEM parts generally does not void warranties by itself in many jurisdictions, but dealers may push back on goodwill repairs if a low-quality part is implicated in related issues.
• Owner reports and reviews – Some low-cost aftermarket PCV units have a pattern of early diaphragm failure; checking independent owner forums and reviews can help you avoid problematic brands.

For many owners, especially those planning to keep the car several more years, selecting an OEM or reputable OEM-equivalent PCV assembly offers better long-term value, even if it adds $40–$80 to the upfront parts bill.

Summary

For an Audi Q5, the PCV valve—or more accurately, the crankcase ventilation/breather assembly—typically costs between $40 and $220 as a standalone part in the U.S., with most owners paying around $80–$180 for a quality OEM-equivalent unit. Because labor can be substantial on many Q5 engines, total installed costs at a shop usually fall in the $250–$650 range, and sometimes higher at dealerships or on complex V6 models.

Prices vary by engine type, model year, and whether you choose genuine Audi parts or aftermarket alternatives, so the most accurate way to pin down the cost is to use your VIN to obtain quotes from both a dealer and at least one independent specialist or parts retailer. Given the importance of the PCV system to engine performance and durability, opting for a well-regarded OEM or OEM-equivalent part is often the most cost-effective choice over the life of the vehicle.

What is the most common problem of the Audi Q5?

Audi Q5 Common Issues

1. Airbag Issues.
2. Excessive Oil Consumption.
3. Leaking Sunroof.
4. Timing Chain Tensioner Failure.
5. Electrical Problems.
6. Infotainment System Glitches.
7. Transmission Issues.
8. Start-Stop System Defects.

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

The cost to replace an Audi PCV valve can range significantly, from around $150 for older, more accessible models to over $3,000 for certain newer 3.0T engines where the valve is integrated into a larger system requiring extensive labor. The final price depends heavily on the vehicle’s model, year, and engine type, with the labor-intensive jobs on 3.0T engines often involving replacing other components like the oil separator and gaskets. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost of the PCV valve itself can be under $50$ 50$50 for simpler parts, but it can be higher if more parts are needed. 
• Labor: This is often the biggest factor. A simple replacement may only take 15-45 minutes, while a labor-intensive one could take many hours of disassembly. 
• Model and engine: Prices vary widely.
  • Some older V6 or V8 engines may be on the lower end, with costs around $150-$300. 
  • Turbocharged 3.0T engines, common in many newer models, are often much more expensive because the PCV valve is part of a larger, more complex system that requires significant labor to access and replace. 

Factors that increase the cost

• Integrated system: On 3.0T engines, the PCV valve is often integrated into the oil separator and requires significant labor to replace. This often leads to quotes that include replacing other components like intake gaskets and seals to make the job worthwhile. 
• Labor-intensive location: If the PCV valve is located in a difficult-to-reach spot, labor costs will be significantly higher. 
• Additional parts: It is common to replace other components at the same time due to the extensive labor involved. These can include gaskets, seals, and vacuum lines, adding to the total cost. 

What you can do

• Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary between independent shops and dealerships. It is recommended to get quotes from several different mechanics to compare costs. 
• Consider an independent Audi specialist: If your Audi is out of warranty, an independent mechanic specializing in Audis may be a more affordable option than a dealership. 
• Ask about the full scope of work: If you are quoted a high price, ask the mechanic what is included in the repair. On 3.0T engines, this is often more than just a simple valve replacement. 
• Research DIY options: If you are mechanically inclined, there are many DIY guides online for replacing the PCV valve yourself, which can save you a significant amount on labor costs. 

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 do I know if my Audi PCV valve is bad?

Common symptoms of a failing Audi PCV valve include rough idling, oil leaks, increased oil consumption, and whistling or hissing noises from the engine. Other signs can include a lit check engine light, oil sludge buildup, and excessive vacuum when removing the oil cap. 
Engine performance and noise 

• Rough idling: The engine’s idle may become unstable or rough, similar to an intake air leak. 
• Misfires: You may experience engine misfires or poor overall performance. 
• Whistling or hissing sounds: A bad valve can cause a distinct whistling or hissing noise from the engine area. 

Oil-related issues

• Oil leaks: Excessive crankcase pressure can force oil past seals and gaskets, leading to leaks at the valve cover, rear main seal, or oil pan. 
• Excessive oil consumption: If the valve is stuck open, it can suck excess oil vapor into the combustion chamber, causing the engine to burn more oil. 
• Oil in the air intake: You might find oil residue or sludge inside the air intake or on the air filter cover due to pressure buildup. 
• Sludge buildup: If the valve is stuck closed, it can prevent harmful vapors from escaping, causing them to mix with the oil and form sludge over time. 

Other indicators

• Check Engine Light: The check engine light may illuminate, sometimes with related trouble codes, because the fault affects engine performance and emissions. 
• Excessive crankcase vacuum: When the engine is running, removing the oil cap may reveal extreme suction on a faulty valve, indicating a problem with the system. 
• White or blue-gray smoke: If the valve is stuck open, you may see smoke from the exhaust as oil is burned in the cylinders.