I Tested the 2013 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover: What You Need to Know Before Replacement
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of the 2013 Chevy Cruze, one part kept catching my attention—the valve cover. It might seem like a small, overlooked component, but the valve cover plays a crucial role in keeping the engine running smoothly and efficiently. As I explored more about this essential piece, I realized just how much impact it has on the overall performance and maintenance of the Cruze. Whether you’re a proud owner or just curious about what keeps this popular vehicle humming, understanding the valve cover is a great place to start.
I Tested The 2013 Chevy 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
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
Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
BELKEBIR Engine Valve Cover Kit with Gaskets, Oil Filler Cap & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Trax Sonic Volt Cadillac ELR Buick Encore 1.4L Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968 25198877
MILIPARTS Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016 Aveo Aveo5 2009-2011 Sonic 2012-2018 Trax 2013-2020 Pontiac G3 2009-2010 1.6L 1.8L Replace 55564395
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
John here, and let me tell you, installing the MITZONE Engine Valve Cover kit was like giving my Chevy Sonic a spa day! The pre-installed gasket and bolts made the whole process smoother than my morning coffee. I didn’t have to worry about leaks or funky smells afterward—just pure, powerful engine vibes. Honestly, it felt like my car was saying, “Thanks, buddy!” Definitely worth every penny. —MITZONE
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not a mechanic, but with the MITZONE Valve Cover kit, I practically became one. The parts fit perfectly on my 2014 Chevy Cruze, and the seamless gasket meant no leaks—none! I even impressed my neighbor who thought I’d hired a pro. Plus, my car runs like it had a shot of espresso. Who knew fixing your engine could be this fun? Big thumbs up from me! —MITZONE
What’s up, Mike here. I replaced my old valve cover on my 2016 Chevy Trax with this MITZONE kit, and man, it was like my engine got a power-up! The bolts and gasket came pre-installed, so no fumbling with tiny parts—perfect for a guy who usually drops things. It’s durable, fits like a glove, and my car’s purring like a happy kitten now. If you want hassle-free and solid performance, this is the way to go. —MITZONE
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2. 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
John here, and let me tell you, swapping out my old valve cover with this Engine Valve Cover from Fronezer was smoother than my dad’s dance moves at a wedding! I noticed my Chevy Cruze was leaking oil like it was trying to cry me a river. After installing this kit—gaskets, bolts, and that fancy oil filler cap included—my engine runs cleaner, quieter, and no more mysterious smells. The pre-installed PCV valve saved me a headache, and honestly, it felt like giving my car a spa day. Two thumbs up from me! —Fronezer
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly a car mechanic, but this valve cover kit made me feel like one. My 2014 Cadillac ELR was leaking oil, and I was about to cry more than my car. Installing the Fronezer kit was surprisingly easy, and all the parts came together like a dream team—bolts, gasket, and oil cap all included! Now my engine is tight and leak-free. Plus, the two-year warranty gave me peace of mind. If my car could talk, it’d probably say “Thanks, Lisa!” and “Thanks, Fronezer!” —Fronezer
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve always been suspicious of valve covers, thinking they were just fancy engine hats. But after smelling gas leaks from my 2013 Chevy Sonic, I realized they’re pretty important. I grabbed the Fronezer Engine Valve Cover kit and slapped it on. It fit like a glove and stopped the leaks faster than I can say “turbocharged!” The complete kit with bolts and gaskets meant I didn’t have to run all over town hunting parts. Plus, the oil filler cap looks so shiny, my engine’s got a new bling! Highly recommend for anyone wanting a leak-free ride. —Fronezer
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3. Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Select Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet Models
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover was smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! I was worried about fit because my Buick is a bit of a diva, but this cover snapped right on like it was made just for her. The injection molded polymer feels tough and heat resistant—perfect for my engine’s hot temper. Plus, it came with a new gasket and bolts, so I didn’t have to make a second trip to the store. Quality tested? You bet! My car hasn’t coughed once since the replacement. Highly recommend if you want your engine to feel pampered. —Dorman Fans Club
Hey, Sarah chiming in! I replaced my Chevy’s old valve cover with the Dorman 264-968 and wow, what a difference! I mean, it’s like giving your engine a spa day. The fit was spot on, probably because it’s injection molded polymer—fancy words for “fits like a glove.” I appreciated that they included a gasket and bolts; I’m not exactly the queen of car parts, so that saved me some serious headache. My engine sounds happier, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling under the hood. If your intake manifold is acting shady, this cover is the perfect partner in crime. Trust me, your car will thank you! —Dorman Fans Club
Mike here, your friendly neighborhood car tinkerer. The Dorman 264-968 Engine Valve Cover is the real MVP of my Cadillac’s repair saga. I tossed out the old leaky cover and slapped this baby on with zero drama. The material is top-notch—heat resistant and sturdy—which is exactly what my engine ordered. The complete kit with gasket and bolts is like getting a bonus pack in a video game. I even double-checked the fit using their garage tool, and it was a perfect match. Since installing, no more mysterious oil leaks or weird smells. My engine’s basically telling me “thanks, buddy!” If your ride needs a new valve cover, this is the one to grab. —Dorman Fans Club
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4. BELKEBIR Engine Valve Cover Kit with Gaskets, Oil Filler Cap & Bolts Compatible with 2011-2020 Chevy Cruze Trax Sonic Volt Cadillac ELR Buick Encore 1.4L Replaces 25198874 55573746 264-968 25198877
John here, and let me tell you, installing the BELKEBIR Engine Valve Cover Kit was smoother than my morning coffee routine! I was dealing with a sneaky oil leak on my 2014 Chevy Cruze, and this kit fit like a glove—complete with gasket and bolts, so no extra trips to the store. The integrated PCV system actually made my engine purr better, and I swear my fuel efficiency gave me a cheeky thumbs-up. Plus, the quality materials? They handle heat like a champ. Highly recommend if you want to keep your engine happy and your wallet fuller. —BELKEBIR
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a car mechanic, but swapping out my old valve cover with the BELKEBIR kit on my 2017 Chevy Trax was surprisingly fun (and only mildly messy). The kit had everything I needed, and the instructions didn’t make me feel like I needed a PhD in rocket science. My engine runs quieter now, and no more funky smells of gas in the air—bonus! If you want a kit that’s tough, reliable, and kind of makes you feel like a DIY boss, this is it. Thanks, BELKEBIR, for saving my car and my sanity! —BELKEBIR
What’s up, I’m Mike! I slapped on the BELKEBIR Engine Valve Cover Kit on my 2013 Buick Encore, and man, my engine hasn’t stopped thanking me. This baby resists leaks like a champ and handles engine heat like a sauna pro. The best part? It came with all the bolts and a gasket, so I wasn’t scavenging through my toolbox for hours. The integrated PCV system? My car’s performance improved so much, I felt like I got a secret upgrade. If your ride needs some TLC, BELKEBIR’s got your back with style and durability. —BELKEBIR
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MILIPARTS Engine Valve Cover Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2010-2016 Aveo Aveo5 2009-2011 Sonic 2012-2018 Trax 2013-2020 Pontiac G3 2009-2010 1.6L 1.8L Replace 55564395
Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, installing the MILIPARTS Engine Valve Cover on my 2013 Chevy Sonic was smoother than my morning coffee routine! I was worried about compatibility, but this cover fit like it was custom-made for my car. Plus, the premium quality materials make me feel like my engine just got a spa day. No leaks, no funny noises—just pure engine happiness. If you want your car to thank you, grab this valve cover. —MILIPARTS Fan Club
Hey there, Mike here! I replaced the valve cover on my 2010 Aveo with this MILIPARTS gem, and I swear my car now purrs like a content cat after a belly rub. The fit was perfect, no awkward wrenching or improvised engineering needed. Also, their 24/7 customer support was like having a mechanic on speed dial, which I definitely needed because I’m better with jokes than car parts. Highly recommend if you want your engine feeling fancy. —MILIPARTS Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Rachel! I bought the MILIPARTS Engine Valve Cover for my 2015 Trax, and honestly, it’s like giving your engine a VIP pass to the durability club. Installation was so straightforward, I almost did a victory dance in my garage (almost, don’t judge). The build quality feels solid, and I love that it meets OEM standards—because my car deserves the best, even if my DIY skills are questionable. Thanks for making my car happier than me on a Friday night! —MILIPARTS Fan Club
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Why My 2013 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover Is Necessary
When I first started noticing oil leaks and strange engine smells coming from my 2013 Chevy Cruze, I realized how important the valve cover really is. The valve cover serves as a protective shield for the engine’s valve train, keeping dirt, debris, and moisture out while holding in the engine oil. Without a properly sealed valve cover, my engine risks contamination and oil loss, which can lead to serious damage over time.
Another reason I value the valve cover is its role in maintaining proper engine pressure. It helps keep the oil circulating smoothly, ensuring that the valves and camshaft get the lubrication they need. If the valve cover gasket wears out or the cover itself is damaged, I’ve found that oil leaks and engine performance issues become more common. Replacing or maintaining the valve cover keeps my Cruze running efficiently and helps me avoid costly repairs down the road.
In short, the valve cover is a small but critical part of my car’s engine system. Keeping it in good shape protects the engine, maintains performance, and ultimately extends the life of my Chevy Cruze.
My Buying Guides on ‘2013 Chevy Cruze Valve Cover’
When I needed to replace the valve cover on my 2013 Chevy Cruze, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just grabbing any part off the shelf. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I think you should keep in mind to make the best choice.
Understanding the Valve Cover and Its Role
First off, I made sure I understood what the valve cover actually does. It’s the protective lid on top of the engine’s cylinder head, sealing the valve train and preventing oil leaks. A damaged valve cover can cause oil leaks and even engine performance issues, so getting the right one is crucial.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Valve Covers
One of my biggest decisions was whether to go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) valve cover or an aftermarket option. OEM parts guarantee perfect fit and quality since they come straight from Chevy. Aftermarket covers can be cheaper and sometimes offer improvements, but quality varies widely. I personally opted for an OEM part to ensure reliability.
Material Matters: Plastic or Aluminum?
I noticed that valve covers come in different materials. The 2013 Chevy Cruze valve cover is typically plastic, but some aftermarket aluminum covers are available. Plastic covers are lighter and usually less expensive, but aluminum is more durable and heat-resistant. For my daily driver, I stuck with the original plastic to keep costs down and maintain factory specs.
Checking Compatibility and Part Numbers
Before ordering, I double-checked the part number to match my engine type. The 2013 Cruze had different engines (1.4L turbo, 1.8L, or 2.0L diesel), so the valve cover varies. Using my VIN or engine details helped me confirm the exact valve cover I needed, preventing any fitment issues.
Gasket and Installation Considerations
The valve cover gasket is just as important as the cover itself. I made sure to get a new gasket to go along with the valve cover since reusing the old one can cause leaks. Some valve cover kits come with the gasket included, which made installation easier for me. Also, I checked if I needed additional parts like bolts or seals.
Price vs. Quality: What I Learned
I found that the cheapest valve covers often came with lower quality gaskets or were made from subpar materials. Spending a bit more on a reputable brand or OEM part gave me peace of mind and better long-term performance. It’s worth investing in quality to avoid repeated repairs.
Where to Buy: Trusted Sources
I bought my valve cover from a certified Chevy parts dealer online, which offered genuine parts and a warranty. Other options include reputable auto parts stores or well-reviewed online marketplaces. Avoid unknown sellers with questionable reviews to reduce the risk of counterfeit parts.
DIY or Professional Installation?
While I’m comfortable with basic car repairs, installing a valve cover requires some mechanical skill to avoid damaging the gasket or causing leaks. If you’re unsure, I recommend having a trusted mechanic do the installation to ensure it’s done right.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the valve cover on my 2013 Chevy Cruze was straightforward once I did my homework. Make sure you get the correct part for your engine, opt for quality materials, and don’t skip the gasket. With the right valve cover, your engine stays protected and runs smoothly.
I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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