EGR valve - what is it and can I get rid of it?

The EGR valve is a rather specific component under the hood of a car that drivers usually have mixed feelings about. Why? On the one hand, it is responsible for regulating the amount of exhaust gases and harmful substances in it, and on the other hand, it is a part that often fails. Usually, the newer the car, the higher the price of its repair will be. Therefore, some people decide to get rid of the EGR system in their cars. Is it really right?

What will you learn from this post?

• What is an exhaust gas recirculation valve?
• How does it work?
• Removing, disabling, blinding the EGR - why are these actions not recommended?

Shortly speaking

The EGR valve is responsible for reducing the amount of hazardous chemicals that are released into the atmosphere along with the exhaust gases. As a result, our vehicles comply with generally accepted exhaust emission standards. If the EGR system fails, it must be cleaned or replaced with a new valve. However, it is not recommended to remove, disable or blind it - this is an illegal activity that contributes to poor air quality and more environmental pollution.

What is an exhaust gas recirculation valve?

EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) literally means Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve. It is installed on the engine exhaust manifoldand one of its main tasks is purification of exhaust gases from carcinogenic chemical compounds contained in them – hydrocarbons CH, nitrogen oxides NOx and carbon monoxide CO. The content of these substances depends mainly on the type of combustible air-fuel mixture in the engine chambers:

• burning a rich mixture (a lot of fuel, little oxygen) increases the concentration of hydrocarbons in the exhaust gases;
• Lean burn (high oxygen, low fuel) increases the concentration of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust.

The EGR valve (EGR valve) is a response to progressive environmental pollution and deteriorating air quality, which is not limited to the environment alone. Car concerns that are also aware of the risks have for some time focused on providing modern, pro-environmental solutions and technologies, which then find practical application in our cars. Among them we can find systems such as catalytic converters, particulate filters or an EGR valve. The latter, contrary to popular belief, it does not harm the drive unit, that is, it does not negatively affect the real performance of the motor.

EGR valve - principle of operation

The principle of operation of the EGR exhaust valve is largely based on "Blowing" a certain amount of exhaust gas back into the engine. (in particular, into the combustion chamber), which reduces the release of harmful chemicals. High temperature exhaust gases that re-enter the combustion chamber accelerate the evaporation of fuel and better prepare the mixture... Recirculation usually occurs when the air-fuel mixture is lean, that is, one that contains a large amount of oxygen. The flue gas then replaces the O2 (which is present in excess), which reduces the concentration of the previously mentioned nitrogen oxides. They also affect the oxidation of the so-called "Broken" hydrocarbon chains.

Exhaust gas recirculation systems are divided into two main types - internal and external:

• Internal exhaust gas recirculation - involves the use of advanced solutions in the timing system, including the closing of the exhaust valves is delayed, and at the same time the intake valves are opened. Thus, part of the exhaust gases remains in the combustion chamber. The internal system is used in high-speed and high-power units.
• External exhaust gas recirculation - this is otherwise EGR. It is controlled by a computer, which is also responsible for a number of other important operating parameters of the drive motor. The exhaust gas recirculation valve is more efficient than the internal system.

Is EGR blinding a recommended practice?

The exhaust gas recirculation valve, as well as any part responsible for the flow of gases, over time it gets dirty. It deposits deposits - deposits of unburned fuel and oil particles, which harden under the influence of high temperature and form a hard-to-remove crust. This is an inevitable process. Therefore, from time to time we must perform comprehensive cleaning of the exhaust gas recirculation valve, preferably when there are problems with its inefficient work - incl. increased combustion, clogged particulate filter or, in extreme cases, engine shutdown.

EGR cleaning and replacement

The authorized service measures related to the exhaust gas recirculation valve relate to its repair (cleaning) or replacement with a new one. However, due to misconceptions about the negative impact of EGR on engine power, some drivers and mechanics are leaning towards three anti-artistic tricks. These:

• removal of the exhaust gas recirculation valve - consists in removal of the EGR system and replacement of the so-called bypasswhich, although similar in design, does not allow exhaust gases to enter the intake system;
• blinding EGR - consists of mechanical closure of its passagewhat prevents the system from working;
• electronic deactivation of the exhaust gas recirculation system - consists in permanent deactivation electronically controlled valve.

These actions are also popular because of their price - a new valve can cost about 1000 zlotys, and for blinding the exhaust gas recirculation system and cleaning it, we will pay about 200 zlotys. Here, however, it is worth pausing for a moment and considering what are the side effects of a clogged EGR valve.

First, it has a catastrophic impact on the environment. Vehicles with switched off or plugged exhaust gas recirculation valve significantly exceed the permissible combustion rates. Secondly, it happens that when the valve is opened, the an error in the control system, leading to a loss of driving dynamics (This is especially true for the new years). We can also observe a Check Engine light or an indicator that informs about irregularities in the exhaust gas cleaning system. Third, and just as important, none of the above actions (deletion, exclusion, blinding) are legal. If a roadside inspection reveals that we are driving a vehicle without an exhaust gas recirculation system (or with a plug) and therefore not meeting emission standards, we risk fine up to PLN 5000... We are also responsible for getting the car out of the way.

Find your new EGR valve at avtotachki.com

As you can see, it is not worth taking such dubious actions. The price we can pay for a removed or blind EGR is many times the price for which we will buy a new valve. So let's take care of our wallets and the planet, and together let's say no to illegal activities.

Are you looking for a new EGR valve? You will find it at avtotachki.com!

Also check:

What does the smell of exhaust fumes in a car mean?

Is it legal to remove the DPF?

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