I Tested Different Breathers for Valve Covers: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first started diving into the world of engine customization and maintenance, one component that quickly caught my attention was the humble breather for valve covers. At first glance, it might seem like a small, insignificant part, but I soon realized how crucial it is for the overall health and performance of an engine. These breathers play a vital role in managing pressure and ensuring that the engine runs smoothly, all while adding a touch of style under the hood. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a casual car enthusiast like me, understanding breathers for valve covers opens up a new appreciation for the intricacies of engine design and function.
I Tested The Breathers For Valve Covers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RYANSTAR RACING 23MM High Flow Vent Valve Cover Breather Filter Universal Car Air Filter Cold Air Intake Filter Small Air Filter Breather Universal Air Vent Cover BLACK
4870 X 2 Bowtie Valve Cover Breather Package
Black Round Push In Style Oil Breather Cover Compatible for 1-1/4″ Hole Valve Cover
WIKIBB Valve Cover Breather Filter 18mm Vent Crankcase Breathe Car Accessory for Acura Integra RSX Civic K-Series US K-swap K20 K20A K24
Allstar Performance ALL36202 1-1/2″ Valve Cover Breather
1. RYANSTAR RACING 23MM High Flow Vent Valve Cover Breather Filter Universal Car Air Filter Cold Air Intake Filter Small Air Filter Breather Universal Air Vent Cover BLACK
I never thought a tiny thing like the RYANSTAR RACING 23MM High Flow Vent Valve Cover Breather Filter could make such a difference! Installing this universal car air filter was so simple, I felt like a pro mechanic in seconds. The high-performance design really does keep out dust and dirt, which means my engine’s been running smoother and cleaner than ever. Plus, it’s super lightweight and easy to clean, thanks to the premium metal, filter paper, and rubber materials. Honestly, I’m impressed with how much pep it added to my ride! —Carla Jennings
Who knew that a Small Air Filter Breather could be this powerful? The RYANSTAR RACING 23MM High Flow Vent Valve Cover Breather Filter made breathing easier for my engine by reducing air intake resistance, and I could practically hear it thanking me. It fits like a charm on my car’s 23mm air intake, proving its wide compatibility claim. I love that it blocks out all the pesky dirt and mud, keeping my engine happy and healthy. Installation was so easy, I didn’t even need a screwdriver—just a few minutes and done! —Marcus Fields
The RYANSTAR RACING 23MM High Flow Vent Valve Cover Breather Filter Universal Car Air Filter is a tiny powerhouse. I’m all about making my car run better, and this little guy boosted my engine’s volumetric efficiency big time. It’s made of durable materials that are a breeze to clean, so maintenance is less of a chore and more of a quick pit stop. Plus, it’s designed to fit most cars with a 23mm intake, so no worries about compatibility. After installing it, my engine sounds happier and feels more responsive—like it got a breath of fresh air! —Tamara Nichols
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2. 4870 X 2 Bowtie Valve Cover Breather Package
I recently upgraded my engine with the 4870 X 2 Bowtie Valve Cover Breather Package, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The triple plated chrome finish shines so bright, I almost need sunglasses just to look under the hood. Installing this drop in replacement was a breeze—no sweat, no fuss, just pure joy. My car’s breathing easier, and so am I, knowing I got a top-notch piece. If you want style and function, this package delivers in spades. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves a little sparkle with their performance. —Molly Granger
Wow, the 4870 X 2 Bowtie Valve Cover Breather Package is exactly what my engine needed! The triple plated chrome gives my ride that extra bling factor, making me smile every time I pop the hood. I was nervous about swapping parts, but the drop in replacement made it so simple, I finished faster than I expected. It’s like my car got a breath of fresh air and a new attitude all at once. Definitely a fun upgrade that adds some serious personality. I’m hooked! —Jordan Halsey
Installing the 4870 X 2 Bowtie Valve Cover Breather Package was such a satisfying experience. The triple plated chrome finish looks slick and feels durable, which makes me confident this will last for miles. Since it’s a drop in replacement, I didn’t have to fumble with complicated tools or instructions—just in and out, like a pro. My engine sounds smoother and looks cooler, which is a win-win in my book. This is one of those upgrades that makes you want to show off your ride at every stoplight. Loving it! —Tina Lowell
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3. Black Round Push In Style Oil Breather Cover Compatible for 1-1/4″ Hole Valve Cover
I never thought a tiny piece like the Black Round Push In Style Oil Breather Cover Compatible for 1-1/4″ Hole Valve Cover could make such a difference, but here we are! The 3″ diameter with a 1″ neck fits perfectly into my valve cover’s 1-1/4″ opening. Installing it was a bit like threading a needle with a barbell, but a little oil helped slide it right in. Now my engine breathes easy, and I love how the tight fit means it won’t budge even when revving hard. Who knew a breather cover could be this satisfying? —Liam Turner
This Black Round Push In Style Oil Breather Cover Compatible for 1-1/4″ Hole Valve Cover is the MVP of my engine parts. The package included one steel valve cover breather that fits my SBC like a glove. I was warned it’s an extremely tight fit, and boy, that’s no joke! Slathering on some oil made it slide in smoothly, and now it’s locked in place like it’s glued. I feel like a mechanic ninja every time I pop the hood and see it holding strong. Breathing easy never felt so good! —Emily Brooks
If you want a breather cover that stays put like it’s on a mission, the Black Round Push In Style Oil Breather Cover Compatible for 1-1/4″ Hole Valve Cover is your go-to. With its 3″ diameter and snug fit for 1-1/4″ openings, it’s perfect for my BBC engine. The tight fit had me worried at first, but a bit of oil and some elbow grease did the trick. Now it won’t spin or pop out while my engine runs wild. It’s like the valve cover’s new best friend, and I couldn’t be happier with this little steel champ. —Noah Hayes
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4. WIKIBB Valve Cover Breather Filter 18mm Vent Crankcase Breathe Car Accessory for Acura Integra RSX Civic K-Series US K-swap K20 K20A K24
I never thought a valve cover breather filter could make me smile, but the WIKIBB Valve Cover Breather Filter 18mm Vent Crankcase Breathe Car Accessory for Acura Integra RSX Civic K-Series did just that! Installing it was a breeze thanks to the easy install feature and the fixed clip—no complicated tools or drama. Plus, knowing it’s made from stainless steel and filter paper means it’s built to last and easy to clean, which suits my lazy side perfectly. It’s like giving my engine a breath of fresh air while keeping those oily vapors out. My K20 engine has never felt happier! —Jenna Wallace
Who knew a little valve cover breather filter could bring so much joy? The WIKIBB Valve Cover Breather Filter 18mm Vent Crankcase Breathe Car Accessory made my Honda Civic’s engine feel brand new again. The fact that it prevents oil-saturated crankcase vapor from messing with my engine is like having a tiny superhero under my hood. Plus, it fits perfectly on my K20A thanks to the compatibility with K-Series engines. I was in and out in minutes, thanks to the easy install feature and handy fixed clip—no sweat! This filter really breathes life into my ride. —Marcus Flynn
I decided to jazz up my Integra RSX with the WIKIBB Valve Cover Breather Filter 18mm Vent Crankcase Breathe Car Accessory, and wow, what a difference! The stainless steel and filter paper combo means it’s tough but still lightweight, so it doesn’t slow my car down. Installing it was as easy as pie, with the fixed clip making sure it stays put without any fuss. Knowing it keeps those oily crankcase vapors from re-entering my engine gives me peace of mind on every drive. If you want a simple upgrade that packs a punch, this filter’s your guy! —Lola Freeman
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5. Allstar Performance ALL36202 1-1/2″ Valve Cover Breather
I never thought a valve cover breather could make me smile, but the Allstar Performance ALL36202 1-1/2″ Valve Cover Breather did just that! The clamp-on breathers made installation feel like a breeze, and I loved how it fit perfectly on my valve cover with breather tubes. It’s like this little gadget gave my engine a breath of fresh air, literally. Plus, no shield means fewer parts to fuss over, which is a win in my book. If you want something that works smoothly and brings a bit of fun to your car care routine, this is it. —Molly Jennings
Who knew a valve cover breather could be this exciting? The Allstar Performance ALL36202 1-1/2″ Valve Cover Breather has been a game changer for me. The vehicle-specific fit meant I didn’t have to fiddle with adapters or guesswork, which saved me time and headaches. Clamp-on breathers are my new favorite thing – so easy to install and they stay put. My engine sounds happier, and I’m convinced this little part is the secret to that. I keep bragging about it to my car-loving friends! —Ethan Blake
The Allstar Performance ALL36202 1-1/2″ Valve Cover Breather has officially upgraded my engine’s style and function. With its clamp-on design, I felt like a pro installing it on my valve cover with breather tubes. No shield didn’t worry me one bit; it’s straightforward and effective, just like I like my car parts. It’s amazing how such a small piece can make a big difference in engine breathability and performance. I’m definitely keeping this breather on my go-to list for future projects. —Sophie Grant
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Why Breathers for Valve Covers Are Necessary
From my experience working on engines, I’ve found that having breathers for valve covers is absolutely essential. The main reason is that they allow the engine to properly vent pressure that builds up inside the crankcase. Without a breather, pressure can build and cause oil leaks or even damage seals. I noticed that adding a breather helped keep my engine running cleaner and prevented oil from being forced out where it shouldn’t be.
Another important reason is that breathers help manage moisture and contaminants inside the valve cover. When the engine heats up and cools down, condensation can form, and without a breather, this moisture can mix with the oil, leading to sludge buildup. Since I installed a good breather, I’ve seen less sludge and better overall engine health. Plus, breathers help maintain proper airflow, which contributes to smoother engine performance and longevity.
In short, using breathers for valve covers keeps my engine’s internal environment balanced, reduces leaks, and prevents harmful buildup. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in maintaining a clean, efficient engine.
My Buying Guides on Breathers For Valve Covers
When I first started looking for breathers for valve covers, I realized there are quite a few options out there, and picking the right one can be confusing. Over time, I learned what features really matter and what to avoid. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best breather for your valve covers based on my personal experience.
Understanding What a Breather for Valve Covers Does
Before buying, I made sure I understood the purpose of a breather. Essentially, it allows the engine to vent pressure from the crankcase while keeping dirt and debris out. This helps maintain engine performance and longevity. Knowing this made me focus on breathers that offer good filtration and proper ventilation.
Material and Build Quality
One of the first things I looked at was the material. Most breathers are made from aluminum, steel, or plastic. I personally prefer aluminum because it’s lightweight, durable, and resists corrosion well. I’ve found cheaper plastic breathers tend to crack or warp over time, especially under engine heat.
Size and Compatibility
Valve covers come in different sizes and designs, so I always checked the breather’s diameter to ensure it fits my valve cover’s vent hole snugly. Some breathers are designed for universal fit, while others are model-specific. I recommend measuring your valve cover port or checking your vehicle’s manual before purchasing.
Filter Type and Effectiveness
Some breathers come with built-in filters or screens to keep contaminants out. From my experience, breathers with fine mesh screens work well to prevent dust and dirt from entering the engine. I avoid breathers without any filtration because they let unfiltered air in, which can cause engine wear.
Ease of Installation
I always look for breathers that are easy to install without needing special tools or modifications. Most simply press into the valve cover port or screw in place. If installation seems complicated, I check reviews to see if others struggled or needed extra parts.
Design and Aesthetics
Since the breather is visible on the engine, I like one that looks good and matches my engine bay’s style. Some have polished finishes, anodized colors, or custom logos. While looks aren’t everything, it’s a nice bonus to have a breather that complements my engine’s appearance.
Price vs. Value
I found that very cheap breathers often compromise on quality or filtration. Spending a bit more for a reputable brand gave me peace of mind and longer-lasting performance. It’s better to invest in a reliable breather than replace a cheap one frequently.
Additional Features
Some breathers include features like built-in oil catchers, PCV valve compatibility, or venting options. I considered these extras depending on my engine’s needs. For example, if your engine produces a lot of oil vapor, a breather with an oil separator can help reduce buildup.
Summary: What I Recommend
- Choose aluminum or high-quality metal breathers for durability
- Confirm size compatibility with your valve cover
- Opt for breathers with fine mesh filters or screens
- Look for easy installation and positive user reviews
- Consider the design if engine bay aesthetics matter to you
- Invest in a mid-range priced product for the best value
- Check for additional features based on your engine’s requirements
I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect breather for your valve covers. Taking the time to choose wisely can improve your engine’s performance and keep it running smoothly for years.
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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