by MrAuto

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2009

Depending on the Vehicle you will be replacing the EGR Valve on, will determine how and how hard it will be to replace. On the majority of American Cars, the EGR Valve is located on top of the Engine, making it easier to replace. On the other hand, on most foreign vehicles, it is located on the back and lower side(s) of the Engine, making this replacement much harder.

EGR Valve stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve. It monitors Exhaust Backflow that occurs then you let off the gas pedal. It normally doesn't kick in until around 50 MPH. It is a part of the Exhaust System, and can get quite dirty from exhaust fume buildup. These Soot and Carbon Deposits can cause the EGR Valve to become clogged, and under certain circumstances, can cause an electrical "pull", resulting in internal failure and replacement.

First thing you want to do is disconnect the Battery for at least 5 minutes to discharge the system fully. Using the American style 3.1L Chevy Engine as an example, Next we need to locate the EGR on the driver's side rear corner, on top next to the Air Tube, It has 3 Inlet Shafts notable by the 3 Torx Screws in the top of it. Now we are going to take a Flat Head Screwdriver, and push the Connector Locking Tab inwards, at the same time grabbing the Electrical Cable and pulling it upwards and out. On each side of the EGR Valve you will see a 10mm Bolt.

Remove these Bolts to get the EGR Valve off. (Because the EGR Valve is part of the Exhaust System, the Bolts tend to get rusty and want to stick in place. Spray some WD-40 or equivalent on these Bolts and let sit for a few minutes should free these Bolts up and turn more easily.) Your new EGR Valve will come with a new Gasket also. You want to make sure the new Gasket is facing the right direction and that you follow the Vehicle manufactures proper Torque Specifications before replacing the Bolts. This is important to insure the Gasket "seats" properly so there are no leaks.

Reconnect the Electrical Connector and Battery to complete this EGR Valve Replacement. Once you get the EGR Valve removed, you can always try cleaning it by spraying some solvent based cleaning agent (available at any parts store) into the internal components inside the EGR Valve. This will help break up any carbon deposits that are causing the EGR Valve to stick and not function properly. Some Vehicles such as Hondas, or even the newer model Chevys, will have a Security Code for the Entertainment Center. Be sure you write down this Release Code before you disconnect your Battery. You will have to resort to your Owner's Manual for proper Release Procedures.

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