Which part of the combustion process does the PCV system primarily impact?

The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system primarily impacts the exhaust phase of the combustion process. The PCV system is designed to reduce harmful emissions and improve the efficiency of the engine by recirculating the gases that escape from the combustion chamber back into the intake manifold. During the exhaust phase, these gases are expelled from the engine after combustion has occurred.

By funneling these gases back for further combustion, the PCV system aids in reducing the overall pollution output of the vehicle and can also help in improving engine performance by ensuring that unburned hydrocarbons are utilized rather than released into the atmosphere. This process highlights the PCV system's role in managing the byproducts of combustion, specifically during the phase when exhaust gases are being expelled, thus making it a critical component of the emission control system in vehicles.