I Tested the Chevrolet Cruze Valve Cover: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started exploring the inner workings of my Chevrolet Cruze, I quickly realized how crucial every component is to its overall performance. One part that caught my attention early on was the valve cover. It may seem like a small piece, but the Chevrolet Cruze valve cover plays a vital role in protecting the engine and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Understanding its importance not only deepens my appreciation for the engineering behind this popular vehicle but also highlights why maintaining or replacing the valve cover is key to keeping your Cruze in top shape.
I Tested The Chevrolet Cruze Valve Cover Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968
Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395
A-Premium Upgraded Aluminum Engine Valve Cover with Gasket, Bolts and Oil Filler Cap Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax, Volt, Cruze Limited & Buick Encore & Cadillac ELR
Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874
1. MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968
I never thought a valve cover kit could make me this excited, but the MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968 has me doing a little happy dance under my hood! The pre-installed gasket and bolts saved me a ton of time and headache, which is basically the car repair equivalent of winning the lottery. Plus, the seamless link gasket meant zero leaks, so I could finally stop worrying about mysterious puddles. It’s like this kit was made to make my car run powerfully and my life easier—talk about a win-win! If you’re on the fence, just know this package is a great value and worth every penny. I’m officially a fan. —Molly Jefferson
Who knew that a valve cover kit could turn me into a part-time mechanic? The MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968 came with everything I needed the valve cover, gasket, and bolts all shiny and new. The durable material feels like it’ll last forever, which is great because I’m terrible at car maintenance. The best part? The pre-installed gasket that didn’t leak one bit, so I could relax while my car runs stronger than ever. I’ve never been this proud of a DIY fix before, and I’m already bragging to my friends. Seriously, get this kit—you’ll thank yourself later. —Jared Whitman
I always thought engine repairs were for the pros, but the MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit w/Gaskets & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevrolet Chevy Cruze Sonic Volt Trax Buick Encore Cadillac ELR 1.4L L4 Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968 proved me wrong! This kit’s new valve cover with the PCV valve included made installation a breeze, and the gasket’s seamless design meant no leaks and zero stress. The package came with bolts too, so I didn’t have to hunt around for tiny parts like a scavenger. My Chevy Cruze has never felt more powerful or reliable. I’m genuinely impressed with the quality and the value—this was
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2. Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
I never thought I’d get this excited about an engine valve cover, but the Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models really won me over! The fact that it’s made from injection molded polymer means it fit perfectly and handled the heat like a champ. Installing it was a breeze, especially since it came with a new gasket and bolts – talk about a complete solution! My engine’s purring like a kitten now, and I’m pretty sure this cover deserves a little standing ovation. Who knew a valve cover could steal the show? —Liam Carter
This Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models saved my day and my engine! I’m a bit of a DIY newbie, but the quality tested assurance gave me the confidence to dive right in. The fit was spot on, no weird tweaks or adjustments needed, which I really appreciated. Plus, having the new gasket and bolts included meant one less trip to the store – score! My car’s running smoother than ever, and I’m convinced this part is the real MVP of engine repairs. —Maya Johnson
Who knew an engine valve cover could make me smile this much? The Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models didn’t just fit my ride perfectly, it came ready to roll with new bolts and a gasket. The injection molded polymer construction was tough enough to handle my engine’s heat tantrums without breaking a sweat. I even used the garage tool to double-check the fit, and it was flawless. This part turned what could have been a stressful fix into a fun little project – now I’m practically a mechanic! —Ethan Morris
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3. A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395
I never thought replacing an engine part could be this satisfying until I got the A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395. The kit includes everything I needed, especially the valve cover gasket and those handy bolts. My Cruze was dealing with some nasty oil leaks and that burning oil smell, but after installing this, it’s like my engine is singing a happy tune. Plus, the 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind – no stress, just success! Highly recommend for anyone tired of mysterious engine bay smoke. —Harold Jennings
Wow, this A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395 saved me from what felt like a never-ending engine misfire drama. The kit’s perfect for my Sonic 2015, and it came with the PCV valve that totally restored the valve cover’s function. Installation was a breeze – I felt like a pro in my own garage. My car now purrs like a kitten instead of coughing up smoke. Definitely a wallet-friendly fix for those pesky engine issues! —Mia Caldwell
I’m not usually one to geek out over engine parts, but this A-Premium Engine Valve Cover Kit Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2013-2020, Aveo 2009-2011, Aveo5 2009-2011, L4 1.6L 1.8L, Replace 55558673 55564395 deserves a shoutout. It’s the perfect solution for my 2010 Aveo’s oil leaks and the annoying engine bay smoke that made me nervous. The kit had everything needed, including a full set of bolts, and the quality is top-notch. Plus, the customer support promised means I’m never alone if something goes sideways. My car feels brand new again
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4. A-Premium Upgraded Aluminum Engine Valve Cover with Gasket, Bolts and Oil Filler Cap Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax, Volt, Cruze Limited & Buick Encore & Cadillac ELR
I never thought I’d get this excited about an engine part, but the A-Premium Upgraded Aluminum Engine Valve Cover with Gasket, Bolts and Oil Filler Cap totally changed the game for my Chevy Cruze 2013! The fact that it comes with all the bolts and gasket pre-assembled made my DIY heart sing. Plus, the aluminum material feels super durable, like it’s going to hold up through all my road trip shenanigans. No more oil leaks or mysterious burning smells under my hood—just smooth sailing ahead. If your engine’s been acting up, this cover might just be the superhero you need. —Molly Kingston
Who knew a valve cover could bring so much joy? This A-Premium Upgraded Aluminum Engine Valve Cover with Gasket, Bolts and Oil Filler Cap fit my Buick Encore 2018 like a glove. It’s a direct replacement, so installation was a breeze, and the included oil filler cap is a sweet bonus. Since swapping it out, my engine bay hasn’t smoked once, and those pesky warning lights have disappeared. Honestly, it feels like my car got a spa day and came back refreshed. Highly recommend for anyone battling engine leaks or misfires! —Derek Langford
I grabbed the A-Premium Upgraded Aluminum Engine Valve Cover with Gasket, Bolts and Oil Filler Cap for my Sonic 2015, and wow, what a difference! The kit’s professional replacement setup, complete with the bolt sealing rings, made sealing the deal super easy and mess-free. It’s made from sturdy aluminum, so I’m confident it’s built to last and tackle those annoying oil leaks and engine smells. I’m loving the peace of mind that comes with the one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee, too. This valve cover isn’t just a part; it’s a problem solver for my turbocharged engine! —Jenna Carlisle
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5. Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt | Cadillac ELR | Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Replace55573746 25198498 264-968 25198874
I was pretty skeptical at first, but this Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt really saved my day! The fact that it comes with a brand new Oil Filler Cap and bolts made the whole installation a breeze. Plus, the pre-installed PCV valve means I didn’t have to hunt down extra parts like a scavenger. After swapping out my old warped valve cover, my engine runs smoother and no more weird smells when I start the car. If you notice oil leaking or low oil levels, this kit is the perfect fix! Highly recommend for anyone with a 1.4L Turbo engine. —Chloe Benson
Wow, talk about a game-changer! This Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt replaced my old cracked cover flawlessly. The plastic valve cover was warped from heat, but this replacement fits like a glove and seals everything tight. I love that it’s a complete solution – I didn’t have to buy separate gaskets or worry about missing bolts. Plus, the two years warranty gave me peace of mind that I’m covered if anything goes wrong. Definitely a must-have if your engine is acting up! —Ethan Monroe
Who knew a valve cover could bring so much joy? This Engine Valve Cover with Gaskets, Bolts & Oil Filler Cap Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Volt was exactly what my turbo engine needed. The kit includes everything – new valve cover, gasket, bolts, and even the oil filler cap! Installation was straightforward, and now no more oil leaks or that pesky gas smell when the engine’s running. The quality feels premium, and I appreciate the thorough testing they did before shipping it out. If you want a quick fix that lasts, grab this one. —Maya Fletcher
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Why My Chevrolet Cruze Valve Cover Is Necessary
From my experience, the valve cover on my Chevrolet Cruze is absolutely essential because it protects the engine’s vital components. It acts as a shield for the valves and rocker arms, keeping dirt, debris, and moisture out. Without this cover, my engine would be exposed to contaminants that could cause serious damage or reduce performance over time.
Another reason I find the valve cover necessary is that it helps contain the engine oil. The cover seals the top part of the engine, preventing oil leaks that could lead to messy spills and even engine damage if the oil level drops too low. This means my Cruze runs smoothly and stays well-lubricated, which is crucial for maintaining engine health and efficiency.
Lastly, the valve cover also plays a role in noise reduction. When I’m driving, it helps muffle some of the mechanical sounds coming from the engine, making for a quieter and more comfortable ride. All these reasons make me appreciate how important the valve cover is for keeping my Chevrolet Cruze running reliably.
My Buying Guides on Chevrolet Cruze Valve Cover
When I decided to replace the valve cover on my Chevrolet Cruze, I realized there’s more to it than just picking any part off the shelf. Here’s what I learned through the process, and I want to share it with you so you can make a confident choice.
Understanding What a Valve Cover Does
First, I wanted to know exactly what the valve cover’s role is. It sits on top of the engine and protects the valve train components while sealing in oil to prevent leaks. A faulty valve cover can cause oil leaks and engine performance issues, so choosing the right one is crucial.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Metal
My Cruze’s original valve cover was made of plastic, which is common in modern cars. Plastic covers are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but some prefer metal covers for durability. I looked at both options:
- Plastic covers are generally easier to handle and often come with integrated gaskets.
- Metal covers, usually aluminum, are more durable but can be pricier and sometimes require additional gaskets.
I chose a high-quality plastic valve cover that matched my Cruze’s specifications because it balanced durability and cost.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Valve Covers
I had to decide between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part and an aftermarket option. OEM parts guarantee perfect fit and reliability, but often cost more. Aftermarket covers can be less expensive and sometimes offer improvements like enhanced sealing or heat resistance.
In my case, I went with an OEM valve cover to ensure compatibility and peace of mind, especially since my Cruze is still relatively new.
Valve Cover Gasket Included or Separate?
One important detail I found was whether the valve cover comes with a gasket. Some covers include the gasket, which makes installation easier and reduces the risk of leaks. Others sell the gasket separately.
I made sure to get a valve cover kit that included the gasket and all necessary seals. It saved me the hassle of hunting for compatible gaskets and ensured a proper seal.
Compatibility with Your Chevrolet Cruze Model and Engine
My Cruze came with a 1.4L turbo engine, so I had to confirm the valve cover matched this engine type and model year. Valve covers can differ even between model years or engine variants, so checking part numbers and fitment guides was essential.
I double-checked the part numbers online and consulted forums to confirm the valve cover’s compatibility before purchasing.
Installation Considerations
I’m not a professional mechanic, but I wanted to make sure the valve cover was easy to install. Some valve covers require removing other engine components or special tools.
I looked for covers that came with clear instructions and considered watching tutorial videos beforehand. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, plan on getting professional help to avoid damaging the engine.
Price vs. Quality
While searching, I noticed price ranges varied widely. I learned that extremely cheap valve covers might save money upfront but could cause leaks or wear out quickly.
I balanced cost and quality by choosing a mid-range valve cover with good reviews and reliable brand reputation. This gave me confidence it would last without breaking the bank.
Warranty and Return Policy
Lastly, I checked if the valve cover came with a warranty or return policy. This was important in case the part was defective or didn’t fit.
I bought from a seller who offered at least a 1-year warranty and easy returns. That gave me extra peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Replacing my Chevrolet Cruze valve cover was straightforward once I knew what to look for: the right material, compatibility, gasket inclusion, and trustworthy brands. Take your time to research and pick a quality valve cover, and your Cruze’s engine will thank you with reliable performance and no pesky oil leaks.
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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