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.