VW EGR Valve Issues: Symptoms and Solutions Guide

I faced almost identical vehicle emissions issues with my VW Golf 2012 last year. As someone with moderate experience in automotive repair, I recognized similar symptoms, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, and that characteristic hissing sound under acceleration. After initial diagnosis, my workshop confirmed the EGR valve was completely jammed with carbon deposits. They first attempted cleaning, but given the extent of buildup, replacement proved necessary. The total repair cost came to 355€, including parts and labor. The repair resolved all symptoms, no more smoke, normal power restored, and fuel consumption returned to standard levels. The rough idle and jerking completely disappeared. Key steps in diagnosis: Computer diagnostic scan, Visual inspection of the EGR system, Vacuum leak testing, Emissions test before and after repair Since your symptoms match so closely, it sounds like you could be facing the same issue. However, to provide more specific guidance, could you share: Current mileage on your Eos? When was the last time the EGR system was serviced? Have you noticed any specific conditions when symptoms worsen (cold starts, highway driving, etc.)? Are there any other warning lights besides the check engine light?

The EGR was last cleaned during the 140000km service just a few months ago. However, the symptoms started appearing shortly after. I am wondering if the cleaning was not thorough enough or if there might be other recirculation system components causing these issues. The automotive repair shop mentioned possible vacuum leaks during the service, but no specific testing was done. Given the persistent symptoms despite the recent EGR cleaning, should I request a comprehensive emissions test to pinpoint the exact cause? I noticed the symptoms are particularly bad during cold starts and city driving. The check engine light is the only warning light currently active.

Based on your description, it seems your situation mirrors what I experienced with my Golf after a routine EGR cleaning. While cleaning can temporarily improve vehicle emissions, sometimes underlying issues remain unaddressed. In my case, the initial cleaning only provided brief relief before symptoms returned. Further investigation revealed damaged vacuum lines connected to the EGR valve and a small crack in the EGR cooler. These issues prevented proper exhaust gas recirculation, leading to similar symptoms you describe. The catalytic converter was also partially clogged due to prolonged exposure to unburned fuel, contributing to the power loss and smoke issues. The complete repair involved: Replacing damaged vacuum lines, Installing a new EGR cooler, Cleaning the catalytic converter, Installing new gaskets Total cost reached 780€, but resolved all issues permanently. Cold start problems disappeared completely. Given your symptoms persist after cleaning, request these specific checks: Vacuum line integrity test, EGR cooler inspection, Catalytic converter efficiency test, Full system pressure test The hissing sound particularly suggests vacuum leaks, which cleaning alone wont fix. Your city driving problems indicate the system is struggling most during variable load conditions, typical of vacuum-related issues.

Thank you for that detailed response about EGR system issues. Your experience with vacuum lines and the EGR cooler is particularly relevant to my situation. I'll definitely request those specific tests you mentioned, especially the vacuum line integrity check since the hissing sound matches what you described. The comprehensive list of repairs you had done helps explain why a simple EGR cleaning might not have resolved my recirculation system problems. The connection between city driving issues and vacuum problems makes a lot of sense given my symptoms. I'll schedule a diagnostic appointment and specifically ask them to check for vacuum leaks and inspect the EGR cooler, since my rough idle and cold start issues seem so similar to what you experienced. The 780€ repair cost is higher than I hoped, but if it resolves all these diesel engine problems permanently like in your case, it would be worth the investment. Thanks for breaking down the various components that could be affected. It gives me a much clearer picture of what to discuss with the repair shop.