The EGR valve, also known as exhaust gas recirculation, is a critical component of your vehicle’s emissions control system. It allows your engine to recycle a precise quantity of exhaust gas into the intake system for improved performance and fuel efficiency.
The recirculation of exhaust gas is important because it helps to keep huge amounts of unburned fuel from being released into the atmosphere, which contributes to greenhouse gases. This is why it became mandatory on most new vehicles some time ago.
A faulty EGR valve can lead to many different problems, including poor engine performance and low gas mileage. It’s also a safety issue because it can result in detonation and engine knocking, both of which are dangerous.
What Are the Symptoms of an EGR Valve That’s Failing?
Poor engine performance: If your evr is malfunctioning, your car will struggle to accelerate. This happens because the air-to-fuel ratio will be off, causing your engine to run less efficiently. This can also cause your car to use more gas than usual.
Fuel smell: Since the engine is burning more fuel, it will release more hydrocarbons into the air, which can give off a strong smell. This can be unpleasant for you and your passengers, so it’s best to fix this problem as soon as possible.
Check the vacuum solenoid: If you have an electronically controlled EGR valve, activate it with a scan tool and look for vacuum at the end of the pipe. If it’s not working correctly, the EGR valve will have to be replaced.
Clean the EGR Valves: If you need to clean your EGR valves, make sure to wear acid-resistant gloves and safety glasses before you start. Spray a cleaner on the valve and use a wire brush to remove carbon deposits that have built up over time. Once you’ve cleaned the valve, replace it and see if the Check Engine light goes off.
Cost of a Replacement EGR Valve:
The cost to replace your EGR valve will vary depending on the part’s brand and your vehicle’s specifications. Generally, it’s around $200 to $300. However, labor costs will be higher if you have to hire a mechanic to install it for you.
How to Clean the EGR Valve:
Cleaning the EGR valve is simple, but you should first read your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It should tell you how to take it off, as well as where it’s located.
Before you start, make sure to disconnect the exhaust tube that feeds into the EGR valve. This is a good idea, as it will make it easy to reconnect the valve once you’re done.
Once you’ve removed the EGR valve, take off any bolts that hold it in place. This will help you to discard the old one and ensure that you have a compatible replacement on hand when you need it.
Once you’ve removed the valve, make sure to clean it thoroughly. This should include removing all the carbon deposits that have built up over time. This will help to improve the function of the valve.