toyota camry EGR system problem, what to do?
i have a 1992 toyota camry. just recently the engine light starts to light on and off for more than 3 times already. so i went to a pep boys store to have the code read, it was code 71. EGR system problem.
the previous mechanic checked the code, he didn't even check the system, he just told me that i have to replace the entire system,which will cost more than 400 dollars. good thing is that his store was busy on that day. so i didn't change it right away.
The pep boys people told me that they have to check the system in order to know which part is bad.
so my questions are
how serious is this problem? is it related to emission problem? if i keep driving it, will it cause any serious problem in the future?
thanks! ;)
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The EGR components have absolutely nothing to do with how your engine runs. EGRs recirculate exhaust fumes. Exhaust fumes will not make your car run better. OK?
No harm will come to your car if you don't fix it. I've let mine go for over 8 years now...no big deal. However, if you live in an area that requires an emissions test,but then you can't pass with the light on. (there are ways around fixing it and passing the test)( I know how to do it)
Sometimes its not the EGR at all, even though you are getting a EGR fault code. It could be a fluctuating MAF sensor or a faulty MAP sensor telling the EGR to open and close too rapidly, causing the EGR valve to stick, and causing the on-board computer to freeze. I doubt if thats your problem because your engine would shut down. But it could be related.
from what you described it is an egr malfunction when the EGR opens at low rpm it creates a leak and kills performance its allowing the cylinder to get oxygenless air that has been burnt before it sounds like its opening too easy try blocking it off and see if restores power and mpg you may still pop a check engine light but it will help decide egr should work at higher rpm to allow recycled exhaust in to lower cylinder burn temperature and reduce NOX (oxides of nitrogen) to block it off just roll some tinfoil nice and tight and insert it in the pipe temporarily and then try it
the egr port in the head is clogged causing the code. need to clean out the passage way so exhaust can flow through the egr valve.
Don't forget to chip out the built up carbon in the ports where the EGR valve connects to the manifold. Most times you have to chip them out with screwdriver and small hammer.
If the EGR valve is truly the problem, in most cases they don't need to be replaced, just cleaned.
To clean your EGR valve just follow the advice in the links below: