An EGR valve is a small but vitally important engine component. The valve’s purpose is to permit the flow of exhaust gases into the engine’s intake manifold in small amounts. This valve opens when the vehicle is warmed up and operating at a high speed, working to regulate the engine temperature by introducing less oxygen-rich exhaust gases.
As a relatively simple component, EGR valve problems usually involve the valve either not opening or not closing correctly. A qualified mechanic should be able to spot the signs and clean, repair, or replace the valve before any serious damage is caused to the vehicle engine. These are some practical EGR valve pointers to bear in mind as you begin your trades training.
Signs that Point to an EGR Valve That Is Stuck Open
There are several “fingerprints” that can indicate an EGR valve is stuck open, allowing a constant flow of exhaust gases into the engine. These can range from relatively straight-forward indicators like the triggering of the ‘Check Engine’ light or the telling sign of a rumbling, unhappy idle engine after the vehicle has been driven at higher speeds.
However, more subtle indicators can include a noticeable drop in fuel consumption or decrease in the vehicle’s rate of acceleration. The general malaise that a constantly open EGR valve can cause to an engine’s performance can also manifest itself in reduced fuel efficiency.
By asking the vehicle owner the right questions and observing the engine’s performance after it’s been warmed up, an auto service advisor—or mechanic in smaller repair shops—can begin to build a case for an EGR valve issue. Confirmation can be achieved through testing, which will vary depending on whether the valve in question is vacuum-controlled or electronic.
Auto Mechanic Training Helps You Uncover Closed Valves
If an EGR valve is malfunctioning and staying constantly closed, it will cause a range of symptoms that differ from the symptoms caused by an open valve. A lack of cooling exhaust fumes can result in early combustion of fuel introduced to the engine, manifesting itself as tapping or banging noises from the engine while driving at low speeds.
Other indications, such as a triggered ‘Check Engine Light’ or a poor emissions performance, will again point to EGR issues. The louder the bang, the more likelihood of damage being done to the engine, so graduates of auto mechanic training programs will know that prompt action should be undertaken if a vehicle is presented in this condition.
Employ Your Automotive Trades Training to Put it All Together
It is certainly the case that the symptoms described above can sometimes be caused by issues other than EGR valve problems. Thankfully, a more solid diagnosis can be achieved by a professional matching the appearance of multiple symptoms with a potential “smoking gun” cause, ruling out other factors, and then investigating deeper with a physical examination.
With experience, a mechanic will learn to act on owner feedback provided by the service advisor, as well as his or her own informed opinion, and then set about quickly and efficiently confirming which part or parts are at fault. Factors such as vehicle type, mileage, and the persistence of the observed symptom will all form part of the deductive process. Automotive trades training is thus essential in instilling aspiring professionals with an informed sense of what avenues to investigate when dealing with this relatively common engine issue—and provide the skills required to resolve it.
Studying at a mechanic school in Vancouver is a fast and effective way to become a qualified professional.
Contact us at Automotive Training Centres to learn how you can easily enroll today.
