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EGR valve: replacement and selection

When and why it is necessary to replace EGR valve

There is no precise operational lifetime for the component. It depends on car peculiarities and quality of fuel used. The most common defect of the element is depressurization of its casing or of the area of its connection with the intake or exhaust manifold. Moreover, the EGR valve (German abbreviation)is replaced if it is covered with dirt or carbon deposit. In most cases this leads to jamming of the part.

Depressurization of the component often occurs because of gasket burning-out. In addition, defects of other parts often lead to valve breakage. So, wear-out of the piston rings or the engine cylinders can cause clogging of the crankcase ventilation system, resulting in highly contaminated mixture coming through the EGR valve. This leads to deposit formation on the element, troubling its operation.

“Check Engine” indicator can activate at breakdown of the EGR valve. This happens because the valve, covered with dirt or carbon deposit, is unable to receive signal from the control module. The main signs of this element defect are: unstable engine operation at idling, and frequent unprompted engine stalls. In many cases, a defective exhaust gas recirculation system valve leads to jerks during car driving. Also, fuel consumption significantly increases. Appearance of engine detonation is possible. In this case, loud pops will be heard during its operation.

Take into account that access to this component can be complicated. So it is better to perform component replacement at a service station. Specialists will examine integrity of the pipe coming from the EGR valve into the intake manifold, and of other elements of the system. Also defective components will be replaced.

How to select EGR valve

In general, electro-pneumatic or electronic valves are used. The latter can have a few levels of recirculation. This characteristic should comply with engine power. In case of high engine displacement you can select the valve providing 7 levels of recirculation for lowering of harmful emissions.

In order to make components serve as long as possible, give preference to products of proven manufacturers. For example, high-quality parts are made under such brands as VEMO, PIERBURG, WAHLER.

To properly select the exhaust gas recirculation valve, you need to be guided by such car characteristics as the brand, model, production year. Moreover, selected part should comply with the type and power of the car engine, have corresponding quantity of the connection contacts. Note that the valves can be sold in a kit with seals, as well as without them.