Deactivate exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR unit)!

Recently updated on September 29, 2023 at 07:56 am

[Update: 18.09.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. Deactivating the exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR OFF) is a tuning measure that has a number of advantages. In this article, these advantages are examined in more detail and there is also some general information about the EGR and also with regard to the permissibility of such a deactivation.

What is the EGR?

Generally speaking, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR or EGR – Exhaust Gas Recirculation) is there to reduce the emission of so-called nitrogen oxides, which are produced during combustion. With a petrol engine, the main focus is to reduce fuel consumption, while with a diesel engine, the goal is to reduce emissions. This is accomplished by reintroducing some of the burned exhaust gases into the intake air, which is then burned again, which then logically results in fewer exhaust gases being emitted. However, the EGR valve can show a defect after some time (the EGR valve cokes and therefore no longer closes properly), which is noticeable, for example, in the form of increased nitrogen oxide values ​​in the exhaust gases, significantly increased fuel consumption, black smoke from the exhaust, engine jerking when accelerating and the yellow engine indicator lamp lighting up.

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Other disadvantages of active EGR are, for example, a sometimes very high level of coking in the intake system, which can primarily be problematic in the long term, since there is the possibility that the channels can narrow by up to 80%. Thus almost no more air is supplied. This is directly related to a reduced power output of the engine. In the worst case, the valves can even be damaged, which would ultimately result in major engine damage.

Deactivate exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR unit).

Depending on the vehicle, the activation of the EGR is either deactivated manually or additionally via the software of the engine control unit. If the change is made, the valve is permanently closed and it can also be sealed with a cap adapted to the vehicle. From now on, no errors will be stored in the error memory that can be traced back to the deactivated or defective EGR unit.

What are the advantages of deactivating the EGR?

In addition to the absence of the negative aspects mentioned above, the deactivation of the EGR also offers some other positive effects. As far as the engine is concerned, there is almost always an improvement in torque and the Injectors, the so-called injectors, are no longer so heavily soiled. Furthermore, there is a reduced fuel consumption and the already mentioned coking of the intake system also does not occur because the deactivation of the EGR means that only fresh air is supplied to the system. With a diesel engine, there is an additional positive side effect that the diesel particulate Filter not so sooty and lasts longer.

Is it legal to turn off the EGR?

Although there is a lot to be said for deactivating the EGR technically and for the first time also logically, this measure is unfortunately one serious violation of the StVZO and is therefore illegal. If you nevertheless deactivate the EGR of a vehicle and continue to use it on public roads, this can lead to consequences up to and including the expiry of the general operating permit. According to the unanimous opinion on the net, it can even lead to criminal charges for tax evasion. But one really commits tax evasion? Here is the answer! In any case, anger is inevitable.

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