Valve Train: What It Is and Why It Matters at Meineke in University Place
When your engine runs smoothly and responds quickly, your valve train is doing its job. Because it controls the opening and closing of your engine’s valves, the valve train keeps your engine breathing properly. Whether you’re driving through University Place or looking at moving to town, this system plays a major role in performance and efficiency.
At Meineke in University Place, we know that valve train issues can cause serious engine problems if ignored. So, in this post, we’ll explain what the valve train is, what it does, how it works, how to maintain it, and when to see a mechanic.
What the Valve Train Is
To begin, the valve train is a group of parts inside your engine that manages the intake and exhaust valves. Since these valves control airflow into and out of the engine cylinders, the valve train’s timing is crucial. Although it works quietly under the hood, it’s one of the most important systems in your car.
Because each engine stroke depends on valve timing, keeping this system in sync is essential for engine health.
What the Valve Train Does
The valve train opens and closes the valves at exactly the right times during each engine cycle. While intake valves let air and fuel in, exhaust valves release gases after combustion. So, the valve train must work with precise timing to avoid engine misfires or damage.
Since even a small timing issue can affect power and efficiency, this system must stay in top condition.
How the Valve Train Works
At its core, the valve train includes the camshaft, lifters, pushrods, rocker arms, and valves. First, the camshaft rotates and pushes the lifters upward. Then, the motion travels through the pushrods to the rocker arms. After that, the rocker arms press down on the valves, opening and closing them at exact moments.
Because this movement happens thousands of times per minute, the parts must stay clean, lubricated, and properly adjusted.
How to Maintain the Valve Train
Although the valve train is built to last, it still needs care to keep working smoothly. So, follow these tips to help maintain it:
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Change your oil on time, since clean oil keeps valve train parts moving smoothly
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Use the correct oil grade, because your engine is designed for a specific viscosity
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Listen for ticking or tapping noises, which may point to a loose or worn component
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Avoid revving the engine excessively, especially when it’s cold or low on oil
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Schedule engine inspections at Meineke in University Place, where our techs can check valve clearances and wear
Because oil is critical to valve train function, dirty or low oil levels can cause serious damage quickly.
When to See a Mechanic at Meineke in University Place
Sometimes, valve train problems start small but get worse fast. So, visit Meineke in University Place if:
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You hear unusual ticking, tapping, or clattering sounds, especially when starting the engine
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Your engine runs rough or misfires, which may mean poor valve timing
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You lose power or notice decreased fuel economy, especially during acceleration
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See the check engine light, particularly with misfire or valve-related codes
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You haven’t had an engine checkup in over a year, especially with high mileage
Because a failing valve train can lead to costly repairs, catching problems early helps protect your engine.
So, Call Meineke in University Place Today for Valve Train Inspection and Service
Since the valve train controls your engine’s breathing and timing, keeping it in good shape is key to performance and reliability. At Meineke in University Place, our ASE-certified technicians inspect, adjust, and repair valve train components with care and precision. Whether you’re hearing noises or due for maintenance, we’re here to help.
So, call Meineke today and keep your engine running strong—because perfect timing starts with a healthy valve train.
If the Meineke in University Place is not convenient, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations in Washington:
Meineke Car Care Center – North Meridian
433 North Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98371
253-848-2532
Meineke Car Care Center – South Meridian
4021 South Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98373
253-845-2153
Meineke Car Care Center – State Ave
10501 State Ave
Marysville, WA 98271
360-658-4263
Meineke Car Care Center – Firdale Ave
23900 Firdale Ave
Edmonds, WA 98020
206-533-0072
Meineke Car Care Center – Logan Ave South
64 Logan Avenue South
Renton, WA 98057
425-255-8802
Meineke Car Care Center – Holgate Street
465 South Holgate Street
Seattle, WA 98134
206-324-4660
Meineke Car Care Center – 35th Avenue SW
9201 35th Avenue SW
West Seattle, WA
98126
206-759-3020
Meineke Car Care Center – 6th Avenue
3024 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
253-627-6168
Meineke Car Care Center – Bridgeport Way
2701 Bridgeport Way West
University Place, WA 98466
253-564-5110
Meineke Car Care Center – 4th Avenue East
517 4th Avenue East
Olympia, WA 98501
360-357-8995
Meineke Car Care Center – Tacoma Way
8724 South Tacoma Way
Lakewood, WA 98499
253-581-1226
Meineke Car Care in University Place, WA
