A Complete Guide to the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen Engine Valve Cover
Leaking or cracked valve covers are a common issue on the Aspen's V8 engines; here is what you need to know before you buy a replacement.
- The most common symptoms are a burning oil smell and visible leaks on the side of the engine.
- Replacing the entire valve cover is often smarter than just the gasket, as new covers come with all necessary seals and prevent future cracks.
- Dorman is a reliable aftermarket choice that offers good value, while Mopar is the guaranteed-fit but more expensive OEM option.
- This is a manageable DIY job for those with some experience, but a professional repair is also reasonably priced.
Is Your Chrysler Aspen Valve Cover Failing?
A failing valve cover or its gasket is one of the most common sources of oil leaks on the 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI engines. Over time, the constant heat from the engine causes the plastic cover to become brittle and crack, or it can cause the rubber gasket underneath to harden and lose its seal. When this happens, you'll start to notice some clear signs that it's time for a replacement.
🎬 Watch: 6 signs of a bad valve cover or gasketKey Symptoms of a Bad Valve Cover
- Burning Oil Smell: This is often the first sign. When oil leaks from the valve cover, it drips onto the hot exhaust manifold below, creating a distinct and unpleasant burning smell that you may notice inside and outside the vehicle.
- Visible Oil Leaks and Stains: You may see oil residue or grime collecting on the side of the engine, just below the black plastic valve cover. If the leak is bad enough, you might find oil spots on your driveway.
- Low Engine Oil Light: A significant leak will cause your engine to lose oil over time. This can trigger the low oil level or oil pressure warning light on your dashboard.
- Smoke from Engine Bay: In cases of a severe leak, you might see smoke coming from under the hood as the leaking oil burns off the hot engine surfaces.
Check Your Spark Plugs
The valve cover gasket also seals the spark plug tubes. If the gasket fails here, oil can fill the tubes, soaking the spark plugs and ignition coils. This can lead to engine misfires, a rough idle, and a Check Engine Light.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Valve Cover
When shopping for a new valve cover for your 2007-2009 Aspen, you'll find options from the original manufacturer (Mopar) and several aftermarket brands. Here’s an honest breakdown of what to expect.
Brand Tiers for Your Aspen
- Mopar (OEM): This is the original part your vehicle came with. It guarantees a perfect fit and original quality. However, it is also the most expensive option. If your original cover lasted over 100,000 miles, a new Mopar part offers peace of mind, but you pay a premium for the name.
- Dorman: Dorman is a major player in the aftermarket and a very common choice for this repair. Their parts are designed to match the original fit and function, and they sometimes even try to improve on the original design. While many users have success with Dorman, there are occasional reports of parts being defective out of the box, such as having slight warping or issues with integrated PCV systems. It's a solid, cost-effective choice, but inspect it carefully before installation.
- URO Parts: URO is generally known for making parts for European cars. While they may offer a valve cover for the Aspen, finding reviews for their Chrysler applications is difficult. For parts that are labor-intensive to replace if they fail, URO can be a gamble. It's the budget option, but may carry a higher risk of premature failure compared to Dorman or Mopar.
Cost to Replace a Chrysler Aspen Valve Cover
The total cost will depend on the brand you choose and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional mechanic.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Valve Cover Kit | $131.35 - $366.35 |
| Shop Labor | $110 - $200 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $240 - $570 (per side) |
Note: Costs are estimates. Your final price may vary based on your location, the specific product, and your mechanic's labor rates. The V8 engine has two valve covers; costs shown are for a single side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the valve cover broken or just the gasket?
While the gasket is the most common failure point, the plastic valve covers on the Aspen's V8s can crack or warp after years of heat cycles. Since the labor to replace just the gasket is the same as replacing the whole cover, and new covers come with new gaskets, it is often a smart move to replace the entire unit, especially on a high-mileage vehicle. This eliminates the risk of a cracked cover causing another leak down the road.
Is this a good DIY job for a beginner?
Replacing the valve cover on the 4.7L or 5.7L engine is considered a moderately difficult job. It requires disconnecting wiring harnesses and carefully maneuvering around other engine components. The passenger side is generally easier than the driver's side. If you have some mechanical experience and a good set of tools, it is a manageable DIY project. 🎬 See this DIY guide for HEMI valve cover gasket leaks If you are new to auto repair, you might want to leave this to a professional.
🎬 Watch: Tips and tricks for 4.7L valve cover replacementDo I need to replace both valve covers at the same time?
You don't have to, but it's often a good idea. The valve covers on both sides of the engine have been exposed to the same age and heat cycles. If one has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing both at once saves you from having to do the same job again in the near future.
Are there any recalls for the Chrysler Aspen valve cover?
No. There are no recalls or manufacturer service bulletins specifically related to engine valve cover failures on the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen. This is considered a normal wear-and-tear repair item.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 53022085AD 53021828AD 53021829AD
Fits 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen models with either the 4.7L V8 or 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. Material is typically high-temperature molded plastic. Aftermarket kits should include the valve cover, main gasket, spark plug tube seals, and bolt grommets.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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