How to Clean the EGR Valve in a Honda Accord
by Cayden Conor
The EGR valve on the Honda Accord sits on top of the intake manifold at the rear of the engine. It introduces unburned exhaust gas back into the cylinders to help cool the cylinders and to reduce the amount of unburned gas exiting the exhaust. Unburned fuel that exits the exhaust gets expelled into the atmosphere, increasing pollution. The EGR valve is prone to caking up with soot, which hardens on the valve and causes the valve to stop working. If the buildup is not severe, you can clean and replace it.
Step 1
Remove the vacuum lines and the wiring harness connector from the EGR valve. The vacuum line may or many not have a clamp. Loosen the clamp and pull the hose off, or simply pull the hose off if there is no clamp. Press the plastic tabs in on the electrical connector to remove the plug.
Step 2
Unbolt and remove the two retaining bolts on the bottom of the valve. Lift the valve off the engine. Clean the gasket mating surfaces thoroughly, using a screwdriver if needed. Be careful not to gouge or scratch the gasket mating surfaces.
Step 3
Inspect the EGR valve. If there is a small wire across the front of the valve, it cannot be cleaned. The wire is very thin and will be damaged by any pressure and/or chemicals. If there is no wire, continue.
Step 4
Spray the inside of the EGR valve with carburetor cleaner, then shake the EGR valve out. Carefully scrape stubborn soot off with a screwdriver. Wipe out the inside of the valve with a rag, making sure it is completely dry before reinstalling the valve.
Step 5
Place a new gasket on the intake's mating surface. Install the EGR valve and tighten the bolts firmly. Plug the vacuum line and the electrical connector in.
Things You'll Need
- Set of sockets
- Screwdriver
- Carburetor cleaner
Writer Bio
Cayden Conor has been writing since 1996. She has been published on several websites and in the winter 1996 issue of "QECE." Conor specializes in home and garden, dogs, legal, automotive and business subjects, with years of hands-on experience in these areas. She has an Associate of Science (paralegal) from Manchester Community College and studied computer science, criminology and education at University of Tampa.
