What causes an EGR valve to malfunction?
EGR valves can become stuck ‘open’ or ‘closed’ due to a build-up of soot particles, carbon deposits and dirt from fuel. Motorway driving conditions are the most favourable to your EGR valve as longer, faster journeys allow the engine to get hot enough to get rid of carbon deposits.
Is EGR valve open or closed at idle?
The EGR valve is closed when the engine is starting up. During idle and at low speeds, only a small amount of power is required, and therefore only a small amount of oxygen, so the valve gradually opens – it can be up to 90% open at idle.
What are the symptoms of a bad EGR valve?
When there is a problem with the EGR Valve, the check engine light or EPC(VW) light may occur on your dashboard. The two main issues EGR valves face are that, either the valve stays open or it shuts completely. Here are some common symptoms you will notice if you have a bad EGR valve.
Can a blanked off EGR improve engine performance?
Of course its not. The EGR pumps warm used air back into the engine instead of cold clean air. If you were to blank of the EGR, it would continuously get cold air thus an improvement in performance. For people looking for the best performance upgrade (such as myself), a remap with a blanked off EGR will provide excellent results.
Can a vacuum controlled EGR valve be repaired?
The older vacuum controlled EGR valves are easier to repair because the function is much simpler. If you have a vacuum controlled EGR valve, you can often replace the membrane inside it and clean it up to function as a new EGR valve. Newer EGR valves contain a lot of electric parts and can be really difficult to repair if you are not an expert.
What does EGR stand for in exhaust valve?
EGR Valve stands for exhaust gas recirculation valve, which breaks down exactly what it does. Recirculating the exhaust does a few things for overall performance. First, it optimizes the fuel to air ratio without pulling in extra air from the intake.