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It is becoming more and more common for an error code or malfunction to occur that relates to the EGR valve. In many cases, the part is then incorrectly replaced, resulting in high costs.
An EGR valve has to deal with polluted exhaust gases. When combustion is not optimal, the exhaust gases will become more polluted. This often happens when you often use the car for short trips or when you drive a lot in traffic jams. But there are also other factors that influence this.
The fact is that today’s cars have to meet increasingly strict environmental requirements. This is solved, among other things, by letting the exhaust gases pass through the EGR system several times. The result, cleaner exhaust gases, but more internal pollution.
This is also one of the biggest reasons why an EGR valve, for example, no longer closes properly. This often results in a malfunction, error code and a hefty bill. To give a specific answer to the question. The lifespan of an EGR valve is typically about 100,000 miles. However, you can significantly extend the life of the car by properly maintaining the car. By cleaning the EGR valve yourself you can prevent and often even solve such problems. However, prevention is better than cure in this case too!