How to Change the PCV (Or Complete Control) Valve on Your Subaru XV Crosstrek or Impreza (2013+)

Zach Zach (248)
15 minutes

Changing the PCV valve on your Subaru XV Crosstrek (or Impreza) is part of your recommended 30,000 mile maintenance. The dealer normally charges about $200 for this service, but you can do it yourself for $20 in about 15 minutes. Subaru also calls this part the Complete Control Valve.

This guide will show you how to easily change your own PCV valve on your 2013+ Subaru XV Crosstrek or Impreza. This guide works for either the Crosstrek or Impreza as the engine is the same (as is most of the car!).

Torque wrench ×1
Deep socket, 3/4" ×1
Socket extension ×1
Subaru PCV Valve, P/N 11810AA131 ×1

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

Your car's PCV valve is an inexpensive but often overlooked component. Long ago, we would simply vent crankcase pressure into the atmosphere -- nowadays, we vent it into the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system instead. The PCV valve helps to control this ventilation and also helps to regulate air flow.

A clogged PCV valve can cause increased oil consumption, which is bad, especially in Subarus. :)

Don't burn yourself. That would be bad.

Subaru XV Crosstrek PCV valve location

The PCV valve location on the XV Crosstrek/Impreza is denoted in the attached photo.

Detach the PCV hose

Carefully remove the hose connecting the PCV valve to the crankcase (see attached photo).

Remove the old PCV valve

Remove the old PCV valve using a 3/4" socket and extension. Ensure that no particulate can fall into the opening before you can install the new one.

It's possible to inspect the existing PCV valve prior to replacing it, but I find it's easier to simply replace it since the part is so inexpensive. If you'd like to inspect it instead, check to make sure that the ball/plunger at the end of the valve can freely move; it should make a clicking sound when you shake it.

Install the new PCV valve

This is the exact PCV valve you'll need.

Using a torque wrench is highly recommended as it ensures the PCV valve will be tightened to the proper tightness. Torque wrenches are an inexpensive but essential tool in any DIYer's automotive toolbox.

Set your torque wrench to 14 lbf. ft (or pound-foot) and tighten the PCV valve until your torque wrench clicks.

Reattach the PCV valve hose

In this case, reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. You're all done!

Next

Next, change your Crosstrek cabin air filter in 5 minutes for about $15—you’ll be glad you did!

Find out how to clear cache on your iPhone or iPad in less than 30 seconds!
1 minute

It's not often that you will need to clear the cache on your iPhone or iPad, but there does come a time when it's a good idea to clear all that old Safari data and cache.