If you own a 2001 through 2004 Toyota Corolla then you know that they are not only reliable, but fun to drive. If properly maintained, your Toyota Corolla will last a long time. One form of this maintenance is to replace the valve cover gasket once you have driven 100,000 miles or more.
Allow the engine to cool. Disconnect the battery cable.
Locate and disconnect the Number 2 cylinder head cover and the wire harness protector. Locate and disconnect the ignition coil and the high tension cord assembly.
Locate and disconnect the ignition coil connectors and the ECT sensor wire. Disconnect the PCV valve and the cable bracket.
Disconnect the engine wire and the brackets. Using a wrench, unscrew and remove the valve cover bolts. Lift the valve cover off. Remove the old gasket. This may require the use of a flathead screwdriver and a little nudge to coax the old gasket out of the gasket seating area.
Using the automotive engine cleaner, the scrub brush and the clean cloth rag, clean the gasket seating area. Make sure that all gasket remnants, oil or other particles are removed from the gasket seating area.
Place the new gasket in the gasket seating area. Reverse the steps that were used to remove the parts initially. Once complete, add oil to the car and start the engine. Let the car run idle for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will allow the oil to move to the top of the engine, lubricating the engine parts as it does.
