How to Determine if the EA888 Exhaust Valve is Faulty?
2 Answers
EA888 determines the method of the exhaust valve being faulty: If the exhaust valve is faulty, it generally results in either an overly lean air-fuel mixture or excessive pressure. The normal operation of a car's engine relies on these small components and some sensors. The exhaust valve is installed between the compressor outlet and the condenser inlet, improving heat transfer efficiency in the condenser and evaporator through separation. The EA888 engine is a design by Volkswagen, integrating advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing, achieving a balance between power and economic environmental protection. This engine adheres to globally unified technical specifications and quality control requirements and is equipped in various models under Volkswagen, including the Magotan, CC, Tiguan, Passat, and Audi Q5.
I've been driving a car with the EA888 engine for several years and have gained experience in dealing with PCV valve failures. The most obvious sign is increased oil consumption—having to top up half a liter every 2,000 kilometers. The engine shakes noticeably at idle, and the exhaust emits a strong gasoline smell. When you open the hood and listen closely to the PCV valve, you can hear a hissing sound like a slow tire leak. Cold starts become particularly difficult, and acceleration feels sluggish even after warming up. Last time I encountered this issue, I removed the PCV valve to inspect the diaphragm and found tiny cracks all over it when shining a flashlight, indicating severe leakage. These symptoms combined are a clear indicator of the fault.
