I‘ve heard that fuel additives can fix an EGR valve problem by cleaning it out. Is this true? If this is true, what would be the best fuel additives to use? Thanks for your help.
You should let a mechanic check that. DOnt play with things like that can be dangerouse.
Just about all auto parts stores sell cleaners for EGR valves amd fuel injectors and none can guarrantee success. If you are positive the valve is sticking then it would be best to replace it as soon as possible because the cost to repair serious damage later will far exceed the cost of replacing it right now. Meanwhile, the reason for that valve to stick is your major concern because it usually is result of oil or heavy (rich) exhaust and either of these could open doors to several other potential problems to be looked into such as a bad CO2 sensor, worn rings, poor gas mixture, spark plugs, failing fuel injectors and even a catalytic converter needing replacement. If the EGR valve mounts into a plastic intake maniforld then beware. If you have been adding anti-freeze real often then you can be sure there is a porosity hole in the intake manifold sending antifreeze into the oil pan and the EGR valve is not the real problem at all. Instead, the oil pan is filling with antifreeze and will not show on the dipstick. Eventually, because oil floats on anti-freeze, the antifreeze will reach the crank shaft and the crankshaft bearings will burn because of lack of oil.requiring a new engine. In other words, before you put good money after bad money, be positive of the steps you take and have a qualified garage mechanic do a diagnostic test so as to eliminate extreme costly repairs which may not be necessary at all. Good luck.
If it's your egr valve than remove it clean it with carb cleaner. Blow through it before after cleaning the valve. See if you can tell any difference in the flow. If not, replace the valve. If it is an egr restricted flow problem it could be in the exhaust manifold flow. You would need to remove clean the manifold. Sometimes this can be difficult. You may need a wire brush to get into the smaller areas/ports under the manifold. Better left to a professional if you don't work on cars alot. Fuel additives will not do much for this. If you take it into a shop with a fuel system cleaning machine that will power flush the fuel rails, thottle body, etc. than that may help. If you can repost your question with the exact complaint I may be of more help.
