What causes carbon build-up in the EGR system?
Right, let’s yarn about EGR carbon build-up, since we get plenty of questions about it in the workshop. Your EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system pretty much takes some of your engine’s exhaust, runs it back into the intake, and helps keep those nasty emissions down. That’s especially handy if you’re crawling up and down Ulster Street every day or getting stuck at lights in Rototuna or Nawton, where you’re just idling ages in good old Hamilton traffic.
< a href="https://www.samarins.com/glossary/egr-system.html">Learn more about how the EGR system works
Now, here’s the thing. Exhaust gases aren’t clean. Even if you’re driving something like a 2012 Mazda Atenza or a Toyota Estima, that EGR system is right in the firing line for all that dirty stuff your engine pushes out. Doesn’t matter if you live out in Morrinsville or are zipping from Raglan to Hamilton every day – over time, we see that carbon and soot build up and get caked inside the EGR valve and passages. Not usually a biggie at first. But leave it too long and that carbon starts piling up pretty thick. That’s when the EGR valve can get blocked, stuck open, or shut, and then the problems hit.
What does EGR carbon build-up look like?
Seen it a lot here on everything from Kia Carnivals to little Suzuki Swifts, even the odd Peugeot 308 or Honda Fit with plenty of city kms. Here are some signs you might spot:
- Engine running hotter than usual – You might notice the temp gauge creeping up, especially after slogging it down Te Rapa Straight or crawling around the Dinsdale roundabouts on a muggy summer’s day. That’s a sign less exhaust gas is coming back in to help cool things off.
- Check engine light glaring at you – Modern motors, from Euro models to your typical Nissan Qashqai, will ping a warning with a check engine light if sensors pick up flow problems from a clogged EGR valve. Handy to scan it to see what’s up. Book a vehicle scan today!
- Odd knocking or pinging noises – Had a customer bring in a VW Golf making all sorts of racket – turned out fuel was igniting way too early because the EGR was jammed shut with muck. Big carbon build-up means rough running and sometimes ugly knocking noises.
- Rough idle – or stalling at the lights – Dreaded for parents on school runs. If your car’s shuddering at idle, revving up and down, or even stalling (especially on the stop-starts in Fairfield or Glenview), EGR carbon could be the culprit.
Best way to clean carbon build-up from the EGR?
Right now, our carbon cleaning machine’s out of action for a bit – just being honest! So we’re not offering the full carbon service until it’s running sweet. But here’s what you should know:
Yes, there are some magic potions and cleaner sprays out there. Sometimes they help a bit, especially if you’ve caught things early. But Kiwi conditions – lots of short trips, rough backroads, plenty of cold starts in winter – mean that carbon build-up can go rock hard and cling on tight, especially around the EGR valve. An engine and EGR carbon clean, usually done with specialised gear, is the best bet to actually shift the worst of the muck.
We’ve done plenty of these on everything from hybrids to big old diesel vans, and you’d be surprised how much black gunk comes out – especially for folks doing all those short trips down Peachgrove Road to the shops.
Why bother with an EGR carbon clean?
Better Power
You’ll probably notice your engine pulls a bit harder and feels more responsive – handy when you’re merging onto SH1 or shooting past a truck on Morrinsville Road.
Cleaner Air
Cutting down exhaust fumes keeps the air a bit fresher, especially good for those doing heaps of trips with kids on board. Less emissions is always a win with WOF checks.
Save on Fuel
Noticed your tank’s not getting you as far lately? A clean EGR system can help improve fuel economy, which is a bonus with the price of petrol these days.
EGR Carbon Cleaning Services in Hamilton
Heads up: our carbon cleaning machine’s in the shop, so service is paused for now – but get in touch and we can still chat through your options or put your name down when it’s back up.
Spotting rough idle, check engine lights, or just want to make sure your EGR system isn’t choking up with carbon? Swing by or give us a bell. We see all sorts of makes and models, from Euro wagons to those oddball Asian imports. We know how Hamilton driving wears on them, and can recommend the best fix for your situation.
Looking after your engine and EGR saves you headaches – and helps avoid sudden bills down the road.