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Automotive glossary

Valve Seat Recession

Valve seat recession is wear of soft exhaust valve seats in older engines, made worse by unleaded fuel.

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What is Valve Seat Recession?

It reduces valve clearance over time. It can lead to burnt valves and low compression. Fitting hardened seats is the permanent fix. A compression test can reveal valves that no longer seal.

How it works

Without lead deposits, valve and seat micro-weld and wear under heat and load.

Why it matters for your car

Check valve clearances regularly on older engines. Use a lead replacement additive if the seats are not hardened.

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