An EGR valve is an important component and plays a major role in your car’s performance. In this post, we’re letting you know the function of an EGR valve and how to clean an EGR valve at home.
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve is a vital emission control device in the car’s engine. It is located between the exhaust manifold and the intake manifold. The EGR valve sends back the hot exhaust gas from the engine into the intake manifold. This process helps reduce the combustion temperature and decreases nitrous oxide emission.
A clean EGR valve can reduce the amount of nitrous oxide emitted from your car. Also, cleaning the EGR valve can help increase the longevity and performance of your car’s engine. An unclean EGR valve can damage both your vehicle and the environment.
The following are the signs and symptoms your car will exhibit when there’s an EGR valve problem in your vehicle:
If you notice any of the above signs, check your EGR valve and clean it as soon as possible. Car care experts recommend cleaning your car’s EGR valve after driving 45,000 to 50,000 miles to maintain it better.
Follow the steps given below to clean your EGR valve without any hassle.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface, switch off the engine and engage all brakes. Also, take off the negative terminal of your car’s battery.
Next, locate the EGR valve in your vehicle. The location differs based on the vehicle model, and you can refer to the owners’ manual to find its exact location. Once you’ve located the valve, remove it for cleaning.
Remove the hoses and other parts attached to the valve without damaging them. While removing the valve, if you notice the gasket to be damaged or worn out have, replace it.
The valve contains carbon deposits; therefore, wear acid-resistant gloves and safety glasses before cleaning the valve. Next, spray the EGR valve cleaner on the carbon deposits and remove the deposits using a pipe cleaner or wire brush. Clean it till all the deposits are removed, then wipe the surface using a clean cloth.
If you’re not able to remove the particles with the brush, soak it in a cleaning solution for a few minutes, and then clean it. If there’s much dirt and build-up, it’s better to replace it with a new one.
Once you’re done cleaning it, place it back in its original position. If the check engine light on the dashboard is switched off, you have successfully cleaned the EGR valve.
