Hey Team - my first post here (other than intro).
2016 Accord EX-L, 2.4L, almost 100k miles - has an oil leak around the valve cover gasket. Fair enough. Someone suggested that the Valve Cover itself should be replaced because it's plastic and can warp over the years.
Just wanted to get the thoughts here. Is that necessary?

Thanks

Jeff

 

You can buy an aftermarket aluminum valve cover.

 

Thanks. I'll look for that.

My question was more "how do you know it actually needs to be replaced?".

unless there is something obvious. I was just told that since they are plastic they can warp

 

You don't need to replace the valve cover if is not warped. If you want peace of mind that you won't have any leaks in the future, I would put on an aluminum one.

 

These covers have a gasket underneath that needs to be periodically replaced. You will also need Hondabond (or another suitable rtv sealant of your choice) for two corner portions.
Several good walkthroughs of this on YouTube.
Worth reviewing your oil change interval and checking your PCV valve (top back left, orange/red ringed piece) for clogs. Pleasantly inexpensive to do this job. Honda also recommends checking valves clearances when performing this task (about to tackle this tomorrow myself!)
Good luck to you!

Finger points to PCV, oil leak around base of cover is evident.