At a time of ecological transition, the EGR valve is one of the elements used to control pollutant emissions mostly from diesel vehicles. Its main purpose is to lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and regulate combustion temperature. It was introduced in 1996 with the arrival of the Euro 2 standard.
What is an EGR valve? How does it work?
The introduction of the EGR valve has reduced pollution from combustion engines and is now part of a set of elements that increasingly reduce pollution from combustion engine vehicles, such as particle filters and the addition of the additive AdBlue. The aim is to significantly reduce the emission of polluting particles linked to the use of fossil fuels in the car world, which is harmful to humans and the environment.
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve regulates the flow of exhaust gases by opening to allow them to flow into the intake to burn them a second time and cool them down. By lowering the exhaust gas temperature, NOx emissions are reduced. But depending on the use of the vehicle and over time, it eventually becomes clogged and running becomes erratic. Exhaust gas recirculation causes calamine residues to build up into the valve and intake causing failures.
EGR valve fouling is most rapid when the vehicle is frequently used in city and idling traffic. Traffic lights, slowdowns and traffic jams accelerate fouling that will eventually prevent the valve from opening or closing. It will no longer control the flow of exhaust fumes.
In this case, if it remains in the open position, exhaust gas recirculation will be permanent, increasing engine fouling and causing breakdowns. Otherwise, if the EGR valve remains closed, gas recirculation will no longer occur, and the vehicle will pollute much more than expected. The vehicle will no longer conform to its homologation and will have to undergo a counter inspection after reconditioning during the periodic technical inspection which will detect a higher pollution than that expected for the vehicle.
How to detect a malfunction of the EGR valve?
The first indication that the EGR valve may be malfunctioning is when the emission warning light on your dashboard comes on. When it illuminates, it is often related to a valve malfunction.
Other clues that can indicate your EGR valve is out or clogged are limited power when you accelerate, you feel your engine is not responding. The fact that the engine stalls at idle is also a clue that may indicate a valve malfunction.
Finally, the emission of black smoke when you accelerate will also indicate poor combustion in your engine. If several of these phenomena occur, the EGR valve may be the most likely cause. To be sure of the source of the problem, it is recommended that you have an OBD diagnostic performed at a garage. With his or her electronic case connected to your vehicle's connector, the mechanic will be able to refine the diagnosis.
How to change the part?
If you regularly drive around town with your vehicle equipped with an EGR valve, an occasional highway trip, allowing the engine to run at high rpm, will help prevent it from clogging up too quickly. If the EGR valve does become clogged, it is prudent to replace it to avoid any complications.
In this case, it is prudent to quickly make an appointment with your repair shop to replace it as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to damage various parts of the motor because of fouling and residues.
It will be more economical to replace the EGR valve quickly rather than waiting and risking having to change it in addition to other components.
Klaxcar references
Supplier of quality spare parts meeting the standards of original parts, Klaxcar is able to offer you many references perfectly adapted to your vehicle, be it an EGR valve, a flowmeter, a thermostat, sensors, or a lambda/oxygen sensor.
All the more important on electronic parts, manufacturing precision is paramount to obtaining optimal vehicle operation, especially on all elements with sensors, which will have to perform accurate measurements so that the engine ECUs can act in real time.
The quality of the parts produced by Klaxcar, French spare parts expert for 25 years, is the result of products that are 100% tested on a test bench before being packed for shipment. The company does not limit itself to testing a sample for each product line but checks the quality of each part before it is marketed.
A know-how and an experience demonstrated by the constantly renewed confidence of Klaxcar's customers and partners.
