How to Buy the Right EGR Valve and Gasket

March 20, 2025

6 min read

March 20, 2025

6 min read

An EGR valve is a small but critical part of your car’s emissions system. It helps cycle exhaust gasses back into the engine for cleaner combustion. It’s a simple part with a simple job. However, when it’s faulty, it can cause all kinds of problems.

EGR Valve Considerations

An EGR valve for a BMW X1 s/xDrive 2.0 diesel. — An OEM part, like this EGR valve from BMW, ensures the exact performance as from the factory.

Whether you need an EGR valve for your diesel truck or one for your gas car, there are several factors worth considering.

Vehicle compatibility: The EGR valve must be compatible with your vehicle. EGR valves are not universal. Match the part number from the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit.

OEM vs. aftermarket: An OEM EGR valve ensures the exact performance as from the factory. An aftermarket option can seem less expensive up front, but you might find yourself replacing a low-quality part sooner than an OEM one.

Brand reputation: It’s important to look up what company supplies OEM-level parts for your vehicle. Denso, for instance, makes parts for Toyota. Mopar makes parts for Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler. Delphi is a house brand for GM. Choose a well-known brand name that gets a lot of positive reviews and has a good reputation. It’s also helpful if there’s a warranty for the part.

Condition: Most people prefer to install a new EGR valve themselves. Even a brand-new EGR valve is fairly affordable. You can find rebuilt EGR valves that are slightly cheaper, but these may not include the same warranty coverage.

Types of EGR Valves

A hand holding a new Mercedes EGR valve vacuum solenoid. — A vacuum-actuated EGR valve like this Mercedes part is similar in design to a pneumatic EGR valve.

Manufacturers have created several different types of EGR systems over the years. Only one type of EGR valve will fit your vehicle. Knowing which type is in your car can help you select and install a new valve.

A pneumatic EGR valve operates with vacuum pressure, with a diaphragm controlling the flow of exhaust gasses. The valve activates based on engine temperature and load. The valve remains closed when the engine is cold and opens as it warms up. This is an older setup, so it offers less precise control and can often suffer from vacuum leaks as it ages.

The vacuum-actuated EGR valve is similar in design. The difference is that its vacuum pressure comes from a dedicated source, typically the engine vacuum or vacuum pump. You still have to watch out for vacuum leaks with this design and may find yourself replacing old vacuum lines.

The electronic EGR valve is controlled by a solenoid, allowing for better control. Sensors monitor the engine conditions and the valve opens or closes based on the information received from the engine control unit (ECU).

The differential pressure EGR valve uses a differential pressure sensor to monitor differences between the exhaust and intake manifold to activate the valve. This is a more complex design and is often expensive to repair.

There’s also a variable EGR valve that is electronic. It relies on a variable-position actuator to adjust exhaust flow for more precise control.

Finding an EGR Valve That Fits Your Car

A mechanic wearing a black glove installing a replacement EGR valve. — A new EGR has to be designed to fit your specific model.

EGR valves are not interchangeable between different vehicles. The eBay Parts Finder - opens in new window or tab. allows you to find all of the options that fit your model. Enter the year, make, model, engine, and trim of your vehicle and eBay will sort the results with parts that are guaranteed to fit. From there it is up to you to pick an OEM-level replacement part. Save money in the long run. Buy a high-quality part and it will last.

How much should you spend on an EGR valve?

In most cases, you should spend between $20 and $100 to get a new EGR valve. That cost goes up more for high-quality car brands. Also, a diesel EGR valve is usually more expensive than one used in gas systems.

If you can replace the EGR valve - opens in new window or tab. at home, you will save a lot of money. Most EGR valves can be replaced in about an hour, so you will save that much on labor versus handing your car over to a shop. Additionally, many shops typically charge a premium for the part itself when you can buy it for much less at eBay.

What other parts do people commonly buy with an EGR valve?

Some people mistakenly replace an EGR valve when the EGR sensor is actually at fault. Proper diagnosis can help determine which part is bad and help you avoid replacing good components.

When you replace the EGR valve, you should also install a new EGR gasket. This gasket creates a tight seal between the EGR valve and the EGR cooler or intake manifold. It keeps the exhaust gasses from leaking out. This gasket does need routine replacement. The high heat of the exhaust deteriorates it over time.

Save Time and Money By Cleaning Your EGR Valve

An EGR valve being sprayed with throttle body cleaner. — It’s an option to clean an EGR valve instead of replacing it.

EGR valves commonly suffer from contamination buildup that prevents them from working properly. Fortunately, it’s possible to clean the EGR valve and avoid a replacement. If your car uses a mechanically controlled EGR valve, you should clean it with a carb or throttle body cleaner.

Electronic valves should always be cleaned with MAF sensor cleaner. Like MAF sensors, electronic EGR valves are delicate. Use this dedicated cleaner because it’s less harsh and won’t damage these sensitive components.

To clean your EGR valve, remove it and spray the chamber generously. You should see contamination come out, but a stiff brush may be required for scrubbing if the buildup is thick. Spray the cleaner until the fluid starts to run clear. Remember to install new gaskets when you take the EGR valve off to ensure there are no leaks.

About the author

Brian Jones

Brian worked for several decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician in dealerships before starting his used car lot. Today, he writes for top automotive publications including Motor1. In his spare time, he's dreaming of an escape to the country's best trails in an off-road beast.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.