VW EGR valve

VW EGR: find out more! How to choose, when to change , and how much they cost

Do all VW vehicles have an EGR valve?

No, the manufacturer usually does not install this device on vehicles with 1.2, 1.4, and 1.8-litre engines with TSI fuel injection, or 1.5 and 2.0 litre engines with a TFSI system.

VW vehicles which feature an EGR valve:

• Most model versions with naturally aspirated petrol engines, produced from the 1970s onwards.
• Many diesel-powered vehicles feature an EGR valve, regardless of whether the engine is turbocharged.

Does a faulty EGR valve affect the performance of the vehicle?

Yes. If a component is fully or partially jammed open, the exhaust gases will flow constantly into the intake manifold, regardless of the engine conditions. This leads to a loss of power, stalling, starting difficulties, and engine instability when idling. Combustion problems cause the catalytic converter and turbocharger to break down prematurely. The vehicle may begin to jerk during acceleration. A faulty valve also increases the fuel consumption.

If the component is not able to open properly and remains closed, the risk of engine overheating and detonation increases.

What causes the EGR valve to fail?

• Carbon deposits. Common causes of carbon build up include a bad fuel air mixture, poor-quality engine oil, or piston and cylinder damage.
• Thermal damage. This is often the result of injection and ignition problems. Excess fuel and residues burn up causing the temperature of the exhaust gases to increase.

Can I just disable the EGR valve in my VW car, instead of replacing it?

No, this is prohibited by the manufacturer. If the vehicle is driven without a functioning valve, the fuel injection and mixture processes are disrupted, and the vehicle’s fuel efficiency is reduced.