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What Is an EGR Valve? (EGR Valve Service)

Posted May 11, 2025 3:52 AM

If you've ever felt your vehicle hesitate, go, then hesitate again, you might think there's something wrong with the transmission.  After all, it's not moving smoothly  down the road.  But there are plenty of malfunctions that can cause those symptoms, one of them being something you may have never heard of: the EGR valve.

EGR stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. It's a system that channels small amounts of exhaust back into the engine to cool down the cylinders and reduce polluting gases.  Those include nitrogen oxides that can cause smog. The EGR valve regulates how much of the vehicle's exhaust gas is recirculated. After years and long distances traveled, that valve can get clogged or fail. Sometimes the EGR valve can stick open.  When the EGR valve isn't working properly, your vehicle can start releasing those nitrogen oxides and pollute the air.

The symptoms of a malfunctioning EGR valve include:

  • Engine losing power
  • Engine idling roughly
  • Pinging and knocking sounds in the engine
  • Stalling and hesitation
  • Fuel economy decreasing
  • Check Engine light illuminated

 

Depending on its condition, the EGR valve can be cleaned or it may need to be replaced.  Consult with your service advisor to see what options are recommended to you.

The EGR system is part of your vehicle's pollution and emissions control equipment. If you care about keeping our planet's atmosphere clean, you'll want to make sure it's doing its job—for everyone's benefit.

Ken's Auto Center
9555 Black Mountain Road
San Diego, CA 92126
8585788200



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After many sour experiences—and even betrayal—from other auto shops, I feel compelled to share my heartwarming experience with the amazing, kind, and truly caring team at Ken’s Auto. From the moment I met Todd and Cindi, who run the shop with such grace and warmth, I felt something I had never felt in an auto shop before: ease. Every time I walk through their door, I feel relaxed, knowing I am in good and loving hands. They consistently go above and beyond to make sure I feel seen, valued, and treated with genuine care—a rare gift in this industry. And then there is Mike—the mechanic with a golden heart and golden hands. I have never felt so safe and confident on the road until he began servicing my car. His skill, attention to detail, and integrity have transformed the way I drive. For the first time in years, I feel protected behind the wheel. Everyone at Ken’s Auto operates with warmth, honesty, and integrity—the qualities every human needs and deserves but so rarely receives. After years of running into shops that took advantage of my vulnerability, I can finally say I have found a place of milk and honey—a shop led not just by people with heart, but people who lead with their heart. Every time I step into Ken’s Auto, I know their priority is simple and sincere: to make sure my car is in the best condition so that I am safe on the road. And thanks to them, I drive with trust, comfort, and peace. I urge anyone seeking true care, respect, and honesty for their vehicle to give this incredible team a chance. With full confidence, I guarantee—you will not be disappointed. Lastly, I want to say that their prices are better than any other shop I’ve been to, which only adds to the peace of mind they give me.

, 11/19/2025

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