EGR Issues

Lately my EGR valve has been inconsistent on if it wants to work properly or not. It works fine a good 80% of the time, however it sets off the codes P0404, P1404 about once every other week. The thing that gets me though is the SES light will turn off again after several drive cycles as if nothing was really wrong. This has happened quite a few times over the last 2-3 months, and I'm getting sick of seeing an SES light for no reason. I've tried cleaning any carbon build up a few times so that is no longer the issue. It kept my light off for longer than usual, but the problems came back.

I guess my real question wouls be, is there really anything wrong? What would be the effects of a faulty EGR Valve? The only thing I've noticed is my gas milage has dropped a bit, however it usually does during the winter. Finally if it's necessary to replace the EGR would it be worth buying new parts or getting a used one. I have contacted Ed Morad about a valve and can have one shipped for only $45. My GP is a 1999 GTP w/about 110k miles.

Thanks in advance for any info...

~Justin~

Hi Justin

Here are the code definitions if you dont know already

p0404 - EGR Circuit / Range Performance

p1404 (I dont have a description of in my manual) Are you sure its not a p1406?

p1406 - EGR Pintle Position Circuit Fault.

I would start by making sure that the PCV valve still has its O-ring, then check for proper voltage and ground at the EGR Valve plug. If everything looks good, then 45 bucks for a used (working) one sounds like a darn good price. Make sure you scrape off all the old gasket and install a new one.

I think it is EGR valve stuck open error.

I'll check the PCV first thing tomorrow before work. The P1404 is for the pintle stuck in the closed position, which as I said I tried cleaning all the carbon build up. Worst case, I'll end up getting the EGR from Ed Morad. From the many threads I've read here, they are very reliable for used parts. Thanks for the input guys, I'll post again tomorrow to let you know what's going on.

Not all of Ed's part are good since they are used or pulled but he is good about his return policy.

It doesn't hurt to check the PCV valve and o-ring but when missing it doesn't give of those DTCs. Only a P0401 EGR flow test.

For P0404 the EGR pintle position error is too large. The desired position versus actual is greater than 15% according to what the PCM mdule sees.

This sound like a defective EGR valve but the electrical side. Just to be sure check the PCM 5 volt reference signal input at the electrical connector and make sure the 12 volts need is there too.

Finally home from work...I only had time to check the PCV today and the grommet was missing. I didn't have the tools to check the EGR and hopefully will be able to get to that soon. I called around today and none of the local parts stores have the o-ring/grommet. Anyone have a part number or place I can order one from? I don't understand how they sell the valves, but don't carry the grommet...

Thanks,
-Justin-