2001 Stratus sedan 2.4 DOHC automatic.
Car started missing so I took it in to be looked at. Tech said valve cover gasket is leaking and is getting oil on spark plugs. (It is).
He says plugs are probably fouled and will need to be replaced when replacing the gasket. How complicated is changing the valve cover gasket? My great concern is the ignition module on top of the cover. Is this a do it yourself project?, or should I pay the pros $200-300 to do what they do?

DOC

 

Its very straightforward and easy to do. No tricks I swear! The coil pack is held down with 4 bolts. Its a DIYer for sure, especially to save about $150

 

Yes definately an easy job. Just remember to bear in mind to keep tabs on where things go and keep track of your parts. It's an incredibly simple job. Also change your PCV valve at the same time (The PCV valve can actually be the cause of the valve cover gasket springing a leak and should be changed every 30K miles).

 

So it (ignition module) comes off with just 4 bolts?
Any extra wires, shafts or gears to worry with indexing properly?
I am used to old cars and frankly this new crap scares me. But I clearly see all the bolts required to remove it and the valve cover.

I will replace the plugs at the same time I replace the gasket and many thanks for the tip on the PCV valve. I wonder if that's what started the whole problem? I last changed it...... too long ago[sm=bustedsign.gif]

DOC

 

He's right i just hadta get my PCV changed........well it was dead, my valve cover leaked forever and finally my cam seal blew out.

So if i were you i'd get on that before it'll end up being somthing worse.

 

Yep a bad/clogged PCV will blow out your weakest seal/gasket. Usually the Valve cover is the first one to start leaking to relieve the excess pressure building up. Then it's all a toss up after that as to where the weakest link lies. Besides it's a cheap part (Less than $10 installed at a shop). I'd actually recommend changing it about every 5th oil change. That way you never get to the point where it might risk popping a gasket.

 

Well......

I can see where it woulda been an easy project had everything gone to plan. However, the V/C bolt in the back underneath the coil (naturally) was a no go, and rounded off immediately. Its off to the shop as its location makes it near impossible for us mere mortals to get at it.

 

Jeezus dude... That's a bite... Well at least it WOULD have been a simple repair that could have been done by you.