What is the maintenance method for the EGR valve in diesel vehicles?
2 Answers
Disconnect the connecting pipe between the EGR valve and the intake manifold, spray cleaning agent and then burn it. After natural cooling, gently tap out the internal carbon deposits to keep the connecting pipe unobstructed. Use carburetor cleaner to remove carbon deposits from the intake passage, throttle valve, and inside the EGR valve. If it still cannot function properly, the EGR valve must be replaced.
My old diesel truck's EGR valve kept getting clogged, emitting black smoke upon startup, so I tried fixing it myself. First, I disconnected the negative battery terminal for safety, then removed the valve, which is typically connected to the exhaust and intake pipes. I sprayed EGR-specific cleaner for a few minutes, scrubbed off the carbon deposits with a stiff brush, and soaked the heavily caked areas. Before reassembling, I checked the pipes for leaks, and the repair was only confirmed successful when the engine ran smoothly after restart. If cleaning didn't work, I'd have to buy a matching replacement valve online and install it myself. Adding fuel additives regularly helps reduce carbon buildup, and avoiding prolonged idling is also beneficial. While these tasks can save some money, it's safer to consult a professional mechanic if you lack experience.
