EGR Solenoid replacement necessary?

Does anybody know if the EGR solenoid is not working, if it affects performance/engine or just emissions?

Took my 89 9C1 in and the mechanic said the EGR valve is fine, but the solenoid is likely not working, but since he doesn't have a computer to test it, he wasn't sure, but recommended against paying $70 to test it and then to replace it since it only affects emissions.

Once in a while, my car will just stall when idling, and when reversing. Does anybody know if I should just replace the solenoid since I have to get my emissions tested next year. It had failed previously due to a vacuum leak but was repaired then passed.

I would test it and replace it if necessary - only because it will set a trouble code on the OBD system, causing the system to run in "closed loop" mode which adversely affects power and fuel economy and could lead, in extreme conditions, to a dead O2 sensor and catalytic converter, due to the system running rich.

Thanks for the info, I'll definitely be getting it replaced. Could an unfunctional solenoid also cause a strong smell of gasoline?

No, it has nothing to do with raw gasoline. If you're getting a raw gas smell, make sure the EEC canister is all hooked up properly and there's no damaged/leaky vacuum hoses.

My EGR valve soleniod went a little while ago, so to solve that problem I just disabled the EGR valve by clogging the vaccum line going into the valve. :naughty: