The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is designed to reduce NOx emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the intake manifold, lowering combustion temperatures and mitigating NOx compound formation. In early models (1988-1995), this system comprises an EGR valve, an EGR solenoid valve, and the Electronic Control Module (ECM). Under specific conditions, such as highway cruising, the ECM signals the EGR solenoid valve to open, allowing intake manifold vacuum to reach the EGR valve, subsequently opening it and permitting exhaust gas flow into the intake manifold. Late models (1996-2000) feature an electronic EGR valve controlled by the PCM, allowing precise regulation of EGR flow based on engine operating conditions, monitored via an EGR position sensor. Issues with the EGR system on early models often manifest as rough idling and can result from a malfunctioning EGR valve, EGR solenoid valve, misrouted vacuum hoses, or a faulty ECM, necessitating ECM inspection by a dealer service department due to its complexity and interconnectedness with other vehicle systems. Inspection of vacuum hoses is crucial, and any damaged or misrouted hoses should be replaced. Testing involves applying vacuum to the EGR valve with the engine idling; if there is minimal or no change in idle, the EGR valve may need replacement. For EGR solenoid valve testing on vehicles under 8500 GVW, the ignition should be off, and vacuum applied; if it doesn't hold vacuum, replacement is required, while vehicles over 8500 GVW should have the ignition on (engine not running) during the test. If the EGR valve moves, disconnecting the electrical connector and repeating the test is necessary; if the EGR valve moves, the solenoid valve should be replaced. For late models (1996-2000), complete testing requires a scan tool; however, some limited tests can be conducted to verify system operation in case of obvious failure. These tests include checking voltage supply and ground circuits to the EGR valve position sensor, where approximately 5.0 volts should be indicated on the voltmeter with the ignition key on. If not, the PCM-to-EGR valve circuits should be examined, and if found to be in good condition, the PCM should be diagnosed by a dealer service department or qualified repair shop. To assess the EGR valve's continuity, an ohmmeter can be used to check the EGR valve position sensor and EGR solenoid coil. If an open circuit is detected, professional diagnosis is recommended. During replacement of the EGR valve, access should be gained, electrical connectors disconnected (if equipped), mounting bolts removed, and the EGR valve and gaskets removed, with new gaskets applied during reinstallation. For the EGR pipe replacement, the bracket bolt should be removed, fittings loosened at each end of the pipe, and the pipe removed, after which the pipe can be installed, fittings tightened, and the bracket bolt secured.
Posted by GMPartsGiant Specialist