When You Should Replace Your Audi’s EGR Valve from Expert Mechanics in Dallas

Posted on | 3 Apr 2020 By Anita Gaal

A common issue that Audi drivers experience is EGR valve failure. A bad valve can hinder your car’s performance and possibly even become dangerous over time. This component is vital for maintaining proper engine temperature and decreasing emissions. Let’s take a closer look.

The Purpose of an EGR Valve

EGR is an acronym for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. The EGR valve recirculates a specific amount of exhaust back into the engine. This decreases the temperature during the combustion process, and in return, fewer smog-producing nitrogen oxides are formed.

Symptoms of a Malfunctioning EGR Valve

An EGR valve can malfunction and either get stuck open or closed. When this happens, exhaust is recirculated into the combustion chamber, in the wrong amount at the incorrect time. These are some common symptoms of a malfunctioning EGR valve:

Poor Fuel Economy

The EGR valve is vital for emission regulation. If the valve fails or is defective, your car will burn more fuel.

Dashboard Light

Your dashboard light can be triggered by many different issues. One of those is a malfunctioning EGR valve. To determine the exact reason for your check engine light, let one of our trusted mechanics run a diagnostic test.

Reduced Power

A bad EGR valve can lead to performance issues. A failed or clogged valve can upset the air-to-fuel ratio. Your engine needs the proper ratio to perform correctly, so not having the proper amount of air-to-fuel will cause a reduction in power. You may also notice stalling or hesitation during acceleration.

Misfires

A misfire is always a sign of trouble. When the cylinders aren’t firing properly, it can be due to an improper air-to-fuel ratio.

Rough Idle

A common symptom of EGR valve failure is a rough idle. When it becomes stuck open, it allows too much exhaust to recirculate. This will cause a rough idle.

Stalling

If the EGR valve gets clogged or stuck closed, it cannot allow the recirculation of exhaust. This leads to the engine being “choked” causing our Audi to stall.

Knocking Noise

Higher temperatures may result in knocking or tapping noise in the engine. This noise is often noticeable during acceleration.

Failed Emissions Test

The purpose of the EGR valve is to reduce emissions. When it fails, your car will fail an emissions test.

Fuel Odor

A strong fuel odor that can be detected inside the car’s cabin is probably caused by a bad EGR valve. The smell can get so bad that it can be harmful to your health. Fuel vapors are flammable and can cause a fire or explosion.

EGR Valve is Stuck Open

An EGR valve that is stuck in the open position allows too much exhaust to get into the engine. Common signs that your valve is stuck open are:

• poor fuel economy
• dashboard light
• reduced power
• misfires
• rough idling
• stalling
• hesitation
• failed emissions test
• fuel odor

EGR Valve is Stuck Closed

An EGR valve that is stuck in the closed position isn’t allowing exhaust gases to enter the engine. This causes the temperature to increase which creates various problems. Common signs that your valve is stuck closed are:

• reduced power
• dashboard light is illuminated
• misfires
• knocking noises
• failed emissions test

Ensuring Your EGR Valve Works Correctly

Keeping current on regularly-scheduled maintenance is the best thing you can do to ensure the EGR valve continues to work correctly. Since Audis are vulnerable to EGR valve failure, it is essential to have the valve inspected during regular maintenance.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, they can also be due to other failing components. Before we replace your EGR valve, we will troubleshoot the problem. We won’t waste your money and replace any unnecessary parts. We will find the exact issue, so you don’t have to come back for the same problem.

Call us Today

At Euro Automotive, we specialize in Audi vehicles. Whether your car is having EGR valve issues, or you are in need of regular maintenance, we can help. You don’t have to take your car to a dealership for service. We can perform all the work that your Audi needs quicker and cheaper.

Call us today to schedule your appointment. You can reach us on (214) 956-7744 or visit us at 3421 W. Northwest Hwy. We proudly serve the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.