How to Determine if the EGR Valve is Good or Bad?
2 Answers
Unplug the EGR valve connector. First, locate the power supply and ground wires of the EGR valve. Connect one end of a 5W test light to the ground position. Insert the other end into pin 1 of the EGR connector. If the test light illuminates, it indicates the power supply wire of the EGR valve, meaning pin 2 is the negative terminal. Set the multimeter to the 20V range. Insert the two probes of the multimeter into the power supply and ground wires of the potentiometer signal line. The normal voltage should be 5V. Measure the signal voltage in the EGR valve. The normal reading should be around 0.7V. If it exceeds the normal range, it indicates that the EGR valve is damaged.
As someone who frequently commutes by car, I believe the key to judging the condition of the EGR valve lies in the car's performance during daily driving. If the car starts shaking at red lights, feels sluggish during acceleration, or lacks power, it might be a valve issue. The engine light on the dashboard is also a clear signal. Last time I went for repairs, the mechanic said the EGR controls exhaust gas recirculation, and if it gets stuck and blocks airflow, it can affect engine operation. I've tried opening the hood to simply check for carbon buildup or blockages on the valve, but without the right tools, it's better to take it to a professional shop for inspection. A faulty EGR valve can lead to excessive emissions, increased fuel consumption, and sometimes black smoke from the tailpipe, which isn't environmentally friendly. Regular cleaning during maintenance can help prevent these issues.
