How to Change an EGR Valve

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Most vehicles are now equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve to reduce emissions. When the car's engine is warm, the EGR valve is open. An EGR valve works by induction or computer signal to allow the car's exhaust to return to the engine's air-fuel mixture. This mixture lowers the temperature of combustion, which increases gas mileage and reduces emissions that pollute the air, such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Several symptoms can point to EGR-valve problems, such as a failed emissions test, poor idling, or random changes in engine speed. If you have tested your vehicle and find that you need to replace the EGR valve, it takes only a few steps and tools.

Steps

1. 1
   Locate your vehicle owner's manual and keep it handy; it will help when needing to buy replacement parts.
2. 2
   Unscrew the car battery's negative terminal.
3. 3
   Locate the EGR valve. If you are not sure where it is, check your owner's manual.
4. 4
   Disconnect the air intake hose from the EGR valve.
5. 5
   Disconnect the vacuum hoses from the EGR valve.
6. 6
   Remove the wiring harness that connects to the EGR valve.
7. 7
   Unscrew the bolts that mount the valve to the car's engine.
8. 8
   Disconnect the EGR valve and remove. If you have not yet purchased a replacement, do not discard the old parts.
9. 9
   Seat the new EGR valve gasket.
10. 10
    Attach the new EGR valve using the old mounting bolts.
11. 11
    Check the manufacturer's instructions for tightening the bolts.
12. 12
    Reconnect the wiring harness to the valve.
13. 13
    Reattach the vacuum hoses.
14. 14
    Tighten any clamps.
15. 15
    Reconnect the battery cable.
16. 16
    Connect a new air hose.
17. 17
    Turn the car on and take a test drive to check for exhaust leaks.

Tips

• The EGR gasket is an important part. If not correctly installed, it will create a vacuum leak.
• It is always a good idea to mark all hoses using tape and a marker so that you can reconnect them to the correct terminals.
• Always check the specifications for new parts in your owner's manual. It is also a good idea to take the old, removed parts to the auto-part supply store to avoid buying the wrong size for your specific vehicle.
• When buying your new EGR valve, make sure that all parts that you need are included, such as a new EGR gasket. If it is not included, you'll need to purchase it separately.

Warnings

• Make sure to take all safety precautions when working with car engine parts. Wear protective glasses, sturdy shoes (no open toes), and protective gloves. Do not wear loose clothing.
• If you have any worries about your ability to change the EGR valve, it is best to ask a professional mechanic for help.

Things You'll Need

• Set of ratchets for various bolt sizes
• Spray lubricant
• Wrench
• Phillip's-head screwdriver
• Flat-head screwdriver
• New EGR Valve
• New air hose
• Paper towels
• 
  

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