* Vacuum leaks: The PCV system is part of the engine's vacuum system. A malfunction can disrupt this system, leading to inconsistent air/fuel mixtures and resulting in rough running or jerking.
* Oil leaks: Increased crankcase pressure can force oil past seals and gaskets, leading to oil leaks and potentially affecting engine performance. While this might not directly *cause* jerking, it can contribute to other problems that do.
* Sensor readings: The extra pressure can affect readings from sensors like the mass airflow sensor (MAF) or manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, leading to incorrect fuel delivery and jerking.
However, engine jerking has many potential causes, including:
* Spark plugs and ignition system: Problems here are far more common causes of jerking.
* Fuel injectors: Clogged or malfunctioning injectors can lead to inconsistent fuel delivery.
* Mass airflow sensor (MAF): A faulty MAF sensor provides incorrect information to the engine's computer, causing poor fuel delivery.
* Transmission issues: Jerking can originate from the transmission rather than the engine itself.
Therefore, while a bad PCV valve *can* contribute to engine jerking, it's crucial to diagnose the problem comprehensively rather than jumping to conclusions. If you're experiencing engine jerking, it's best to have a mechanic perform a proper diagnostic check to pinpoint the exact cause.
