Exhaust Gas Recirculation: Service and Repair

CAUTION: Avoid breathing fumes and swallowing EGR exhaust deposits when removing components for cleaning as bodily injury may result.

Whenever the EGR valve is removed the EGR system should be inspected and cleaned if needed. This will insure that the EGR system will function properly under all operating conditions. Proper EGR system service consists of the following steps:
1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Perform the EGR System Diagnosis if PCM DTCs are set.
3. Clean and inspect the EGR pipe from the exhaust manifold to the EGR valve. Refer to EGR Pipe Replacement. Service and Repair
4. Clean the EGR valve. If the EGR system is operating correctly, the EGR valve can be removed, inspected for deposits, cleaned, and re-installed. Use the procedure below for this operation:
4.1. Remove the EGR valve from the engine.
4.2. While holding the EGR valve base in your hand, try to rotate the connector housing. Replace if the valve that exhibits looseness.
4.3. Inspect the EGR valve pintle and seat for deposits. Use a cloth or other suitable soft device to remove deposits. Remove all loose particles. If deposits are such that pintle/base interface can't be cleaned adequately to allow the pintle to seal against the seat, replace the valve. Damage to the EGR valve base will occur if cleaned with solvents, sharp tools, wire brush/wheel or sand blasting. Cleaning by these methods is not recommended.
4.4. Install the EGR valve on engine, using a new gasket. Refer to EGR Valve Replacement. Service and Repair