Where is the egr sensor located and can it cause major problems in a 2005 Chrysler town country touring mini van?

The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) sensor's location varies slightly depending on the specific engine in your 2005 Chrysler Town & Country Touring minivan. It's usually found somewhere on or near the EGR valve itself. The EGR valve is typically located on the intake manifold, often near the back of the engine. You'll likely need to consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's engine (e.g., a 3.3L, 3.8L, or possibly a different engine) to pinpoint its exact location. A visual inspection with the help of diagrams might be necessary.

Can a faulty EGR sensor cause major problems?

Yes, a faulty EGR sensor can absolutely cause major problems, though not always immediately catastrophic ones. Here's why:

* Incorrect EGR operation: A bad sensor provides inaccurate information to the engine control module (ECM). This leads to incorrect amounts of exhaust gas being recirculated.

* Engine performance issues: This can manifest as rough idling, poor fuel economy, hesitation during acceleration, and even misfires.

* Emissions problems: A faulty EGR system will increase emissions, potentially leading to failure of emissions testing.

* Damage to the catalytic converter: Because of the increased emissions, the catalytic converter can overheat and become damaged, leading to costly repairs. This is potentially the "major" problem you're concerned about; it's a significantly expensive part to replace.

* Engine damage (in extreme cases): While less common, prolonged incorrect EGR operation can, in extreme scenarios, lead to damage to internal engine components.

In short, while a faulty EGR sensor might initially just lead to annoying drivability issues, ignoring it can lead to more serious and costly problems down the line, particularly catalytic converter failure. If you suspect your EGR sensor is malfunctioning, it's best to have it diagnosed and repaired promptly by a qualified mechanic.