How do I know when an EGR valve replacement is necessary? What’s the essence of an EGR valve replacement? Does it cost a lot of money? How long will an EGR replacement take?
If you are looking for the answers to these questions, you are in the right place.
An EGR valve replacement should be carried out when the former has malfunctioned to prevent it from adversely affecting the engine performance, leading to severe damage and more expensive repairs.
For example, the inability of your engine to carry out constant illumination of your engine light is a sign that you need an EGR replacement as soon as possible.
On average, EGR valve replacement will cost about $250 to $350, and it depends on the make and model of the vehicle, the year of manufacture, and your location. In addition, the cost of labor and parts ranges from $60 to $80 and $190 to $270. It should take around 3/4 of an hour to get your EGR valve replaced.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about the EGR valve replacement, how much it costs, and valuable tips on getting your EGR replaced with ease.
Let’s get started.
When Do You Need an EGR Valve Replacement?
When an EGR valve becomes stuck open or closed due to carbon build-up, it tends to malfunction. Some symptoms of a malfunctioning EGR valve include:
1. Check Engine Light Is Illuminated
An illuminated Check Engine light indicates a problem with one of your vehicle’s components. Your car’s computer can tell you about any problems with certain components. A bad EGR valve may be one of them.
Your car’s computer senses the EGR valve circuit or position. If any of them is faulty, the engine light turns on, and with a diagnostic scanner, you can inspect the issue or takes the vehicle to an expert mechanic for diagnosis.
2. Reduced Engine Power
A malfunctioning EGR valve will affect your engine’s performance. It directly disrupts the vehicle air-to-fuel ratio, causing problems to your engine, some of which include low fuel efficiency, reduced fuel power, and reduction in acceleration.
3. Rough Engine Idle
A rough engine idle is another common sign of a faulty EGR valve. In this case, the RPM fluctuates, dropping below a distinct threshold.
Due to EGR malfunction, the RPMs are stuck in their open positions. Soon, a rough idle condition starts forming from the exhaust gas recirculation.
Also Read: Car Overheating When Idle? (Here Is What to Do)
EGR Valve Replacement Cost
On average, EGR valve replacement costs between $250 to $350. the cost of labor and parts ranges from $60 to $80 and $190 to $270, respectively. These cost estimates don’t take into account the fees and taxes attached to the total.
In addition to an EGR valve replacement, the service includes a transducer test, vacuum hose inspection, clearing trouble codes, cleaning off carbon deposits from the EGR pintle, and testing the EGR valve to confirm that it is functioning correctly.
How to Replace EGR Valve
Here is a step by step guide on how to replace an EGR valve
- Position your vehicle in park and apply the brake.
- Consult your car repair manual or owner’s guide to locate the EGR valve position.
- All electrical parts should be disconnected and allowed to discharge fully before proceeding.
- Check for the vacuum hoses connected to the EGR valve if there is any crack or leak, which will likely affect the engine performance. One way of diagnosing leaks or cracks in vacuum hoses is by spraying the stated vacuum line with opening fluid while your engine is idle. Hearing the car engine’s RPMs pick up implies that the vacuum line is gradually sucking the starting fluid. Do well to replace hoses if needed.
- Remove the bolts attaching the valve to the cylinder head. If you find this difficult, spray with WD-40 and allow it to sit for a while before doing it again.
- Take off the valve and any other gasket material. Try avoiding debris from falling into the cylinder head.
- Follow the factory instructions in installing the new EGR valve.
- Reattach all hoses and electrical connections that you initially disconnected.
- Check for trouble codes using a diagnostic tool and reset the engine light if necessary. Older vehicles will only take about 5 minutes to disconnect the battery to clear all engine codes and reset the computer completely.
- Conduct a test drive to ensure your vehicle is back to performing effectively again.
Also Read: Blend Door Actuator Replacement (Cost & Steps)
How Long Does an EGR Valve Replacement Take?
From our data, looking at the averages, it will take approximately 3/4 of an hour to replace an EGR valve.
Frequently Asked Questions About EGR Valve Replacement
How Much Does It Cost to Replace the EGR Valve?
The average cost to replace the EGR valve is between $250 to $350. the cost of labor and parts ranges from $60 to $80 and $190 to $270, respectively. These cost estimates don’t take into account the fees and taxes attached to the total.
Is It Worth Replacing the EGR Valve?
For older vehicles using engine vacuum, the EGR valve diaphragm can erode and leak, bringing about check engine light and a rough handle. If this happens, replacing the valve is the best solution.
What Happens When Your EGR Valve Goes Bad?
A bad EGR valve causes severe issues with the EGR system operation and will affect the vehicle’s performance like reduction in power, fuel efficiency decrease, and reduced acceleration. The valves become stuck open or closed from carbon deposit build-up, soot particles build-up, and debris from fuel.
Can I Replace My EGR Valve Myself?
It is super easy to have the EGR valve replaced on some car models. You can do it all by yourself in your garage, and it won’t take up to 2 or 3 hours, but it depends on the vehicle system, using some hand tools and a reliable solvent such as a carburetor wiper to work with.
What Causes EGR Valve Failure?
EGR valve failure is mostly a result of deposit build-up in the EGR valve over a long time, causing it to stick. The build-up is usually an inevitable part of the vehicle’s regular operation and should be considered a serviceable item that should be repaired or changed.
Where Is the EGR Sensor Located?
Mechanical EGR valve sensors are located on the top of the valve. You will find the pressure sensors close to the EGR valve, and the exhaust gas hose connects to the sensor and the valve.