Steps To Adjust a Blow-Off Valve in Your Car's Engine

Every car owner can benefit from investing in a blow-off valve to make driving smoother when switching gears. However, you may notice some issues while driving; adjusting the valve can solve them. Follow these steps to adjust the blow-off valve in your car’s engine.

The Top Cap

While a blow-off valve has many parts, the only one you need to pay attention to is the top cap. It sits on one end of the valve, perpendicular to the trumpet. This valve should have a small vacuum knob with indicators telling you which way to twist. Turning the knob in either direction will adjust the spring and pressure in the blow-off valve.

Soft or Hard Pressure

You have two options when adjusting the pressure in blow-off valves. Harder means twisting the knob clockwise and increasing the pressure on the spring and valve. Softer is the opposite; spin the knob counterclockwise to loosen the spring and release pressure from the system.

Why Adjustments Matter

Finding the sweet spot for your vehicle’s blow-off valve takes time. A Subaru WRX blow-off valve is different from other types and needs specific tuning. You can test out different pressures when driving, then adjust as necessary. Low pressure in your valve can cause the engine to stall when you lift your foot off the throttle. However, too much pressure can cause a lurch in the engine when you apply the throttle. Both are bad for your vehicle and endanger your safety, which is why finding the middle ground for your valve is so important.

Knowing how to adjust the blow-off valve in your car’s engine can keep you in control on the road. You can make changes as you need without relying on a mechanic, so start getting familiar with your vehicle by making this simple adjustment.