How can an exhaust gas recirculation valve be checked?

A vacuum-controlled EGR valve is easy to test with a hand-held vacuum pump (see the image). If the EGR valve opens and the vacuum holds for more than a minute, the EGR valve works. If a vacuum diaphragm inside the EGR valve is leaking, the vacuum will drop. Once the vacuum is released, the valve should close fully.

How is exhaust gas recirculation used in cars?

Since the early 1970s, some form of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system has been used to reduce harmful exhaust emissions in vehicles sold in North America. These EGR systems range from earlier versions that were operated simply by using ported engine vacuum to more modern designs which utilize linear (electronically controlled) EGR valves.

How does exhaust gas get into the crankcase?

Due to the wear and tear of the piston rings and cylinders, the air-fuel mixture and the burned gases from the combustion chambers leak past the piston rings into the crankcase. This seepage of gases from the rings or the cylinders is called ‘Blow-by’. It generally appears as contamination or dilution of engine oil.

What happens to the contents of the cylinder when exhaust gas is released?

So, the exhaust gas significantly reduces the contents of the cylinder for combustion. Because of the absence of oxygen (O2), the exhaust gases have nothing to burn as they contain neither fuel nor oxygen particles. Thus, it results in lower heat discharge and cylinder temperatures.

What are the symptoms of a bad exhaust gas recirculation?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve. 1 1. Engine Performance Issues. Another common sign of a bad EGR valve is engine performance issues. A clogged or malfunctioning EGR valve can disrupt 2 2. Rough Idle. 3 3. Pinging or Knocking Soud During Acceleration. 4 4. Check Engine Light Comes On.

How does the exhaust gas recirculation system work?

It is a part of the vehicle’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, an emissions system designed to recirculate exhaust gases back into the vehicle’s intake in order to reduce cylinder temperatures and NOx emissions. The EGR valve is one of the main components controlling the flow and recirculation of these exhaust gases.

How much does an exhaust gas recirculation valve cost?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve. $145.34 – $887.80. Average rating from 288 customers who received a Exhaust Gas Recirculation/EGR Valve Replacement. The exhaust gas recirculation valve is a component commonly found on many road-going vehicles.

Can a car pass a smog test with a faulty EGR valve?

The EGR valve is an important emissions component, especially for vehicles in states with strict emissions regulations. You won’t be able to pass a smog test with a faulty EGR valve.