What does the EGR Valve Position sensor do?
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (or EGR) systems were introduced to cars as a means of reducing emissions. As their name suggests, they recirculate partially burnt exhaust gases back into the engine where they are re-burnt to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. As EGR systems became more advanced, the EGR Valve Position sensor was added to optimise the flow of gases back to the engine and improve EGR operation.
The EGR valve position (EVP) sensor is an important part of your car’s EGR system. It detects the position of the valve that allows exhaust gases back into the engine. The position of the valve is then sent to your car’s computer, which adjusts the flow of gases to the valve to create optimum re-burning conditions for exhaust gases.
Symptoms of a faulty EGR Valve Position (EVP) sensor:
- Check engine light on – Usually, the first symptoms of a faulty EGR Valve Position sensor is a check engine light coming on the dash. A faulty sensor will affect the amount of exhaust gas re-entering your engine, affecting combustion and triggering the warning light.
- Rough running in cold conditions – A faulty EGR Valve Position / EVP sensor may be most noticeable when the engine temperature is low. The engine may struggle to start, stall or idle roughly.
- Increased emissions – Problems with the EGR Valve Position (EVP) sensor can lead to an increase in exhaust emissions. It is causes excess exhaust smoke then this can lead to your car failing its Warrant of Fitness (WOF) due to excess emissions.
Emission WOF requirements in New Zealand > - Increased fuel use – When the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is not working correctly due to a faulty sensor, gases may not re-enter your engine properly. This will prevent burning, resulting in more fuel going to waste.
- Reduced engine performance – A malfunctioning EVP sensor can also cause a lack of power and reduced engine performance.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to diagnose the issue and replace the faulty EGR sensor if necessary.
Can you drive with a broken EGR position sensor?
Yes, you can still drive with a damaged or broken EVP sensor. However, the way your car runs will be affected. This can lead to the vehicle acting unpredictably.
If the EGR position sensor is broken, the engine control module may not be able to accurately control the operation of the EGR valve. This can lead to a number of problems, including decreased fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions. In some cases, a broken EGR position sensor may even cause the engine to stall or run poorly.
For this reason, we recommend that you have the broken sensor placed when possible to improve safety and engine performance/fuel economy.
EGR Valve Position (EVP) Sensor Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a new EGR valve position sensor? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of experienced mechanics can diagnose and repair problems in your car’s EGR system. If the EVP sensor is the cause of the issues, we can take it out and replace it with a new one. This will allow for reduced emissions, smoother running conditions and increased fuel economy.
For EGR, EVP sensor replacement, repairs and servicing in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!