Replacing the EGR valve - here's how!

The so-called EGR valve performs an important task in a car. We'll show you how to recognize a failed EGR valve, how to replace the valve, and what costs you should expect.

However, if it fails, it can no longer perform this task. This can affect the performance of the engine as well as its lifespan. For this reason, EGR valve defects should always be repaired quickly.

The EGR valve performs the following tasks

Diesel and gasoline engines have combustion temperatures up to 2500 degrees Celsius .

In this case, formed nitrogen oxides, which are harmful to the environment and must be removed from the engine. That reduce the amount of nitrogen oxides emitted into the environment, part of the exhaust gases are returned to the intake manifold through so-called exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system .

This process significantly reduces the combustion temperature and thus less nitrogen oxides are formed as a result of the process.

In this process EGR valve measures the amount of exhaust gases returned to the engine. If the EGR valve can no longer perform its tasks due to defects, in the area Cylinder head or the turbocharger soot deposits accumulate, which can significantly reduce their service life.

These symptoms indicate a malfunction

As is the case with many important vehicle components, Many symptoms can indicate a faulty EGR valve .

However, some of these symptoms may also be signs of other defects . If you notice such a symptom, you should also pay attention to other symptoms so that you can more easily isolate the damage.

Symptoms of a failed EGR valve include:

- The car jerks while driving. – Engine power is reduced. - Hardly any power at full throttle. – The engine goes into emergency mode under load. – The check engine lights come on briefly when the engine is started or while driving. - There is a lot of dark smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe. – Significantly increased fuel consumption. – Elevated nitrogen oxide emissions are measured during exhaust emissions tests.

If any of these symptoms occur, the EGR valve should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. For the sake of the environment and your car.

Is the EGR valve a wear part?

This question is rather tricky. . In fact the answer must be negative , since the valve is not normally overloaded. But over time, soot particles accumulate in the exhaust gases, which can gradually limit the functionality of the EGR valve.

In this regard, it can be said that the EGR valve is definitely a wear part and, depending on driving style and mileage, should be replaced or cleaned one or more times during the life of the vehicle.

Replace the EGR valve yourself or replace it?

Basically , replacing the EGR valve yourself is not a problem. This is possible even without special tools or a lot of experience. However, this actually applies to the replacement itself. .

As valve cleaning и reinstallation of the cleaned valve must only be carried out by a specialist workshop. Improper cleaning can quickly lead to further damage, which will negatively affect the functionality of the EGR valve.

In a workshop you can also check the functionality of the component using the appropriate tools. At home, this is usually not possible.

On the other hand, a simple replacement of a spare part is not a problem for most people. However, there is one limitation. On some car models replacement requires disassembling half of the engine. Also, on some vehicles, the EGR valve may need to be pre-programmed using a scan tool. In these cases, a workshop visit is usually the right choice. , as there are all the necessary aids and tools.

Replacing the EGR valve step by step

– As a rule, the EGR valve is located at the top of the cylinder block directly in front of the so-called intake manifold. Since the EGR valve has the same shape on all types of vehicles, it is easy to identify. – Loosen the engine cover, if equipped. – If the valve is easily accessible, it can be quickly removed. – Disconnect all lines from the EGR valve. – Don't forget to remove the gaskets as well. – Loosen two to eight screws holding the EGR valve. – Insert the spare part and fix it with screws. – Reconnect pipes and gaskets. – Assemble all other components and start the engine. – The engine should now run much smoother.

Pay attention to the following when replacing the EGR valve

– Pay attention not only to the valve, but also to the pipelines and seals. Damaged seals and sooty pipes should also be replaced if necessary. – Before replacing, take a picture of the EGR valve with all lines connected. This will make it easier for you to identify them when reassembling. – If access to the EGR valve is difficult and removal and installation are difficult, contact a specialist workshop. This way you can avoid costly installation errors.

Costs to Consider

Depending on the car manufacturer and the specific model, the prices for an EGR valve range from 70 to 350 euros. If adjacent pipelines or connected seals also need to be replaced, you will have to expect around 50–150 euros more. If the repair is carried out in a specialized workshop, they will charge between 150 and 800 euros for the repair and spare part, depending on the working hours. This is due to the fact that even in a specialized workshop, removing, installing and checking the EGR valve takes one to three working hours. You can slightly reduce the price if you bring a new EGR valve yourself. Most workshops charge higher prices for spare parts than on the open market.