Cleaning the EGR Valve

The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve controls the formation of noxious emissions. It helps your car burn fuel more efficiently by circulating a portion of the exhaust fumes and running it through the combustion system. This process decreases the car’s emissions by prohibiting the formation of toxic gases. If the EGR valve becomes stuck, one of the first things you will notice will be a rough idle or bucking on acceleration. Cleaning the EGR valve will remedy these problems.

How Do You Remove the EGR Valve?

To unhook the EGR valve, disconnect the control line from the solenoid, which is the vacuum line that connects to the steel bump of the EGR valve. Next, unhook the pipe that the exhaust fumes move through. Usually, this part is corroded so it will take longer to disconnect. You can use a crescent wrench for the previous action. The next step is to remove the EGR valve, once the pipe has been disconnected.

How Do You Clean the EGR Valve?

Make sure you possess a can of throttle body cleaner and rust entrant. Soak the entire valve in the body cleaner and rust solvent. After soaking, you can place the valve on a towel to sit. The valve must be tilted so the solvent does not drain into the vacuum motor or the electric solenoid. Wearing eye protection and gloves is necessary to be safe. Spray the port and metering rod, which are on the inside of the valve, until they are clean. Then force the rod through the port to check the operation.

How Can You Reassemble the EGR Valve?

To reassemble the valve, repeat the disassembling process but in reverse. If you forget where the EGR valve goes, you can refer to your owner’s manual for placement. Make sure to connect the exhaust pipe securely. Do not forget to reattach the control line for the solenoid. Attach all of the proper wires and restart your car to make sure it is working properly.

What Does Cleaning the EGR Valve Do?

Cleaning the carbon buildup on the EGR valve is the best way to fix idling problems. A clogged valve can cause a rough idle or poor fuel mileage, and even a power loss. Occasionally, the check engine light will come on if the EGR valve is stuck in the open or shut position. If the check engine light comes on when the vehicle is warm, the valve may be stuck in the open position. If the valve is in the closed position, the check engine light could disappear when the engine warms up.

How Do You Know if You Need A New Valve?

You may need to replace the EGR valve if the rod is stuck. If you have cleaned the EGR valve and the rod is still stuck or missing, you will need to replace it. The price for a valve is high. Some models may be cheaper than others. It is recommended to let an experienced mechanic install a new valve.

Cleaning the EGR valve will help maintain safe emission levels. Your car will get better gas mileage and not put out as many toxic fumes. The life of your engine will also be improved. Replacing the valve should be unnecessary, except in exceptional circumstances. Regular maintenance will add to the EGR valve’s longevity.