[danayoub]

Hey guys,

I could use some help diagnosing this. I pulled SES codes indicating cyl 2 and 3 misfires. I replaced all 6 plugs. It helped, but still getting some misfires / rough idle (rough idle might be unrelated, although it seems that the SES comes on when it stutters while in idle)....same codes - 2 and 3.

I noticed that plugs 2 & 3 were covered in oil when i pulled them out (presumably they were dry in the cylinder, then got slimed on the way out).

Based on the research I did, it looks like the source of the problem is a non-sealing valve cover gasket that leaks oil. Then, this oil can damage the coil packs (the boots did have oil on them)...not sure I completely understand the mechanism of damage on the coil packs...but anyway...anyone have a similar experience or can confirm the diagnosis?

much appreciated

[KROOKEDking420]

I literally just went thru the same exact issue as u I replaced the plugs and found oil in the spark plug tubes I then went to replace the gasket and found a crack in the valve cover itself so I bought a new valve cover and gasket and new plugs then replaced the 2 coils and still misfires now I got all new coils and all new plugs and im really hopin for the best I still haven't thrown the new plugs I just got in yet I had lost my feeler gauge so I couldn't gap the new plugs ---------im guessin ur valve cover is cracked right at the pvc junction right on the inside edge of cylinder 2 are of the valve cover itself so do a thourough inspection when u pull the cover off to do the gasket I made the mistake of tryin to repair it and that was just a waste of time if its cracked just save for a new one this is just my 2 cents hope it helps and good luck hope u have better luck cuz I also had to replace the water pump and thermostat and starter and battery so its been an expensive year !!!!!

[feuer]

Oil could be from the filler cap or when the oil was topped of some got spilled. Oil look clean so maybe your valve cover is ok. Clean everything and observe before you purchase new valve cover.

[jwebb335xi]

Originally Posted by feuer

Oil could be from the filler cap or when the oil was topped of some got spilled. Oil look clean so maybe your valve cover is ok. Clean everything and observe before you purchase new valve cover.

+1 ... new valve cover is big $$$. Checking oil fill cap, gasket and the "pad" under the engine cover for oil would be a good idea as well. Easy and free!

[Boland01]

Possible causes:
1. Valve cover gasket- Not much $ to replace. 3-4 hours in labor. DIY if your handy.
2. Valve cover- If cracked then more $$ to replace. Same labor as valve cover gasket.
3. Oil cap gasket- First thing I'd do is reverse the gasket- free. Next replace with new oil cap.

[terryd5150]

Originally Posted by feuer

Oil could be from the filler cap or when the oil was topped of some got spilled. Oil look clean so maybe your valve cover is ok. Clean everything and observe before you purchase new valve cover.

I've seen this before.

Sucking out the oil, cleaning the area with a mild degreaser, and then running the car for a few more weeks proved it was actually spillage from oil changes.

That was two years ago and the car still does not have any VC leaks.

Make sure to use a funnel when pouring new oil into the fill.

[danayoub]

Thanks for all the answers....unfortunately I hit a deer right after this and the car was totaled...

[jwebb335xi]

Originally Posted by danayoub

Thanks for all the answers....unfortunately I hit a deer right after this and the car was totaled...

Yikes; hopefully you're alright!!

Cars can be replaced!

[WatchWolf34]

Originally Posted by danayoub

Thanks for all the answers....unfortunately I hit a deer right after this and the car was totaled...

Woah - that's a nasty twist! Really sorry to hear that

[Zero//G]

Originally Posted by danayoub

Thanks for all the answers....unfortunately I hit a deer right after this and the car was totaled...

Sorry to hear it! Cheers to the next project.