EGR System Failure?

[MovieMaestro10]

My 97 just threw a EGR system fail code. Going to see if this is something I can fix myself, or if it's worth fixing or just leaving alone.

Which part of the EGR system is most likely to be the culprit, so I know where to start?

Still getting bad gas mileage from my car (12 mpg), after changing just about everything I could think of beyond this. Can I expect any real improvement in gas mileage with the EGR fixed? I do mostly easy low-speed driving to and from work.

Finally, if I dont fix the EGR, is there any danger to other parts of the car running too hot- Such as the cats? Thanks!

[Q451990]

I'm assuming the EGR code works pretty much like it does on the 90-96, in that the sensor detects the hot exhaust gas. You should be able to feel under the valve and feel it lift up and flutter a little at the correct RPMs. It's possible that your EGR port is completely blocked by carbon, and needs to be cleaned. A fully functional EGR will help with fuel economy some, because the exhaust gases are used to prevent detonation (spark knock) - so if knock is detected, your ECU will enrich the fuel mixture. I don't know if it explains 12mpg though. You can read up on the EGR system in your car's factory service manual - available at http://www.infinitiservicemanual.com

[Shawn_hollen]

I have had about the same problem with my 99 u can clean it out it will good for awhile. Now I've been having to clean mine out once a week. Now I am looking for a EGR valve now.(kinda broke now after replacing a lot on my 99 that past few months so looking for the cheapest one I can find) My Exhaust had been running hot put holes in my pipes I fixed them just with the exhaust metal and tape wrap I did that a month or so ago and already has burned holes in them. I've used that exhaust wrap before and that never happen so thought I'd be good. I'll be replacing the pipe as soon as I get my EGR replaced. So it's up to u how u would want to go about fixing it if u got the cash to just get a new one i would. Or if ur like I am at the moment just keep it clean till u can get one.

[MovieMaestro10]

Shawn, when you say you clean out the EGR, which part are you referring to? I see a lot of different tubes and valves back there. Thanks.

[Shawn_hollen]

I tried to show a pic for u on my 99 there r 2 that look very similar. The one that's more in front of the driver. So looking at it facing the front of the car it's the one on the right. It has a rubber hose and a medal one as well hooked up to the one that looks similar. Sorry if this doesn't help I'll keep trying to post a pic for u. If u look up EGR for ur year u can get pics of it

[MovieMaestro10]

I know what part of the EGR system you're talking about. Just was curious how exactly you cleaned it. Do you remove the piece and clean it out with a product of some sort? Do you clean the connecting hoses? Thanks man.

[Shawn_hollen]

I used PB blaster to clean it out and everything I can clan that attaches to it the best I can

[MovieMaestro10]

You remove the whole assembly then? Including the hoses?

[Shawn_hollen]

I took off the little little rubber hoses and just sprayed into the metal exhaust pipe that attaches to it.

[3Q Jay]

maestro-
you know about the piccolo tube in the upper plenum?
that is a b**** to clean, but is also the most offending part of the EGR system on the vh41de as installed in the fgy33.

[MovieMaestro10]

3Q Jay, I'm not sure what you're referencing. Any more info on that?

Was going on a long drive so didn't have time to deal with it myself. Took it into a trusted mechanic. There were a few hoses that needed replacing in the EGR system and a hose connecting to the MAF that I hadn't noticed before. They took care of it for a little over 100 bucks. Haven't had the check engine light come back on since then.