Welcome to Chi Auto Repair
If you’re driving a 2013–2017 Honda Accord with the 2.4L "Earth Dreams" 4-cylinder engine, you know it’s one of the most efficient and reliable powerplants in its class. However, as these vehicles cross the 100,000-mile mark on the roads of Bensalem and Northeast Philadelphia, we’ve seen a specific maintenance pattern emerging at Chi Auto Repair.
The most common issue we see in our Andalusia shop for these 9th-generation Accords is a leaking valve cover gasket. If you’ve noticed an oil smell after your commute through Bucks County, your 2.4L engine might be trying to tell you something.
On the 2.4L inline-four engine, the valve cover sits right at the top. Over years of heat and local driving, the rubber gasket becomes brittle. Look for these signs:
The Burning Smell: Oil seeping from the back of the engine often drips onto the hot exhaust, creating an acrid odor inside the cabin.
External Seepage: You might see dark, greasy buildup around the top edges of the silver engine cover.
At Chi Auto Repair, we believe in doing the job right the first time. To replace that gasket, we have to remove the top of your engine. This is the perfect opportunity to perform three critical maintenance items that are otherwise labor-intensive:
Valve Clearance Adjustment: This 2.4L engine features a mechanical valvetrain that requires manual adjustment. Over time, the valves can get "tight," leading to a rough idle or even engine damage. We adjust them to factory specs while the cover is off.
Spark Plug Replacement: Since we have to remove the ignition coils to reach the gasket, it takes almost no extra labor to install fresh Iridium spark plugs. This restores your fuel economy and ensures a smooth start every morning.
PCV Valve Replacement: A clogged Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve is often the cause of the leak. It builds up internal pressure that forces oil out of the seals. Replacing this small part is cheap insurance for your new gasket.
Located conveniently in Bensalem Township, we specialize in the technical service of Japanese imports. We serve drivers across Northeast Philly and Bucks County who want expert, specialized care for their 2.4L Hondas without the long wait times or high costs of a dealership.
Local Pro-Tip: The stop-and-go traffic on Street Road and Route 1 is tough on rubber seals. If you’re over 100k miles, a quick inspection can save you from a much larger repair bill down the road.
Is your Honda's 2.4L engine ready for a refresh? Stop by Chi Auto Repair in Andalusia or give us a call to schedule your valve cover service and adjustment.