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How to Test and Clean an EGR Valve

Updated: Jun. 11, 2020

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Remove and clean the EGR valve

Photo 1: Spray the valve

Hold the EGR valve so the cleaning spray drips away from the electric solenoid and vacuum motor. Continue spraying until the parts are free of carbon buildup.

Photo 2: Check the metering rod

Check for smooth operation of the metering rod by pushing it in and out with a screwdriver. If it slides roughly, clean it with a cotton ball or swab soaked in cleaner.

Gasket

Replace the EGR gasket as part of the cleaning procedure.

What Problems Does a Bad EGR Valve Cause?

Idling and stalling problems can really add stress to your daily commute. The most common culprit is carbon buildup on the throttle body, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and idle air control (IAC) valve. In this article, we’ll show you how to clean an EGR valve. This simple procedure can often bring an EGR valve back from the dead and restore a smooth idle. If the cleaning doesn’t work, you’ll have to replace the valve.

Where is the EGR Valve Located?

Refer to a shop manual to find the location of your EGR valve. If it’s fairly accessible, stop at an auto parts store and buy a new EGR gasket, a spray can of throttle body cleaner, and rust penetrant. Spray the EGR retaining bolts with rust penetrant and let them sit while you disconnect the electrical and vacuum lines from the valve (label the vacuum lines so you know which ports they came from). Then remove the retaining bolts and lift the EGR valve out of the engine compartment.

Place the valve on a bed of paper towels and tilt it so the cleaning solvent won’t drain into the electric solenoid or vacuum motor, which operates the metering rod—the solvent can damage those components. Spray the port and metering rod until they’re clean (wear eye protection and gloves). Once the parts are clean, check for smooth metering rod operation by forcing the rod in and out of the port with a screwdriver. It should slide smoothly and close completely in the port. If not, apply solvent to a cotton swab and clean the shaft and port.

Check the passage under the EGR valve to see if it’s clogged with carbon. If it is, gently chip out the carbon with a small screwdriver and vacuum it out with a shop vacuum. Then reinstall the EGR valve using the new gasket.

Required Tools for this EGR Valve Cleaning Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

• 4-in-1 screwdriver
• Rags
• Shop vacuum
• Socket/ratchet set

You may also need a small flat screwdriver for scrapping carbon deposits.

Required Materials for this EGR Valve Cleaning Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

• Cotton swabs
• Disposable gloves
• EGR gasket
• Rust penetrant
• Throttle body cleaner