The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve helps lower the car’s exhaust emissions (gases from the tailpipe). It recirculates a portion of the gasses coming out of the engine by putting them back into the intake manifold, where the engine can burn them again, reducing emissions. Most engines require exhaust gas recirculation to meet emissions standards. If the EGR valve has gone bad, the car will most likely not pass an emissions test.

During the EGR valve replacement, your mechanic should also inspect the vacuum hoses connected to the EGR valve. If the vacuum hoses are cracked (leaking), EGR valve will not function properly.

Scan the computer system in the car. | Check all vacuum related hoses to EGR valve. | Test EGR transducer. | Verify the EGR port is not clogged. | Remove and replace the EGR valve and gasket. | Clear the trouble codes and test for proper operation of EGR valve.

It is a good idea to get an air induction (carbon cleaning) service performed every 50,000 miles. This should clean out any sludge or carbon build-up in the air intake system. Always keep up with the regular oil changes; it will help prevent sludge build-up in the engine.

Your engine is not as efficient as it can be, which is why you have an EGR valve. The EGR valve takes a portion of the gas that your engine is excreting, and recirculates it through the intake manifold. The intake manifold then sends the gas back to the engine, where it is used again to power your vehicle. The tube is a key part of the EGR valve, and when the tube fails, the EGR valve will fail to do its job. As a result, your vehicle will not recirculate or recycle any of the excess gas from the engine, and you will get worse gas mileage and possibly fail emissions standards.