EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) systems can not only reduce emissions, but also regulate the temperature of your engine’s internal air. As a result, your engine will not overheat, so it is important to maintain it regularly. Engine overheating and abnormal exhaust emissions can be symptoms of EGR cooler failure.
In modern diesel engines as well as some gasoline engines, these systems are frequently installed. The emissions from diesel fuel are more harmful to the environment than those from petrol. Thus, EGR systems are vital to the effective control of pollution from diesel fuel. But what happens if the EGR cooler fails?
When an EGR cooler fails, severe engine damage can result, as well as potential impairment of other engine components. The symptoms of failure may not always be evident for some time, so it may go unnoticed for some time.
With Natrad, you can choose from a wide range of quality EGR coolers designed for a variety of vehicles. Getting the right replacement is as simple as contacting your local cooling specialist.
How do I know if my EGR cooler is bad?
EGR coolers that are malfunctioning exhibit four key signs.
- The exhaust is white with steam or smoke
- Coolant level was lowered without any visible leaks
- Coolant leaks from the external system
- There is a check engine light on your car
It is important to get your vehicle checked out if you notice any of these four symptoms. A dirty EGR cooler can be the cause of something more serious, or it could simply need to be cleaned.
1White steam or smoke at the exhaust
A passenger or a friend can help you check this, as it may be difficult to do this yourself. When white smoke or steam emerges from the intake system, it is usually due to a leak inside the EGR cooler. As the coolant enters the combustion chamber, it boils and exhales as a gas that is not suitable for your cooling system. While it will not directly damage your exhaust system, it can eventually cause your engine to overheat due to lowered coolant levels.
Lowered coolant level with no leaks
Your cooling system will lose coolant when you lose coolant, as we mentioned above. It is possible for air pockets to form when there is not enough coolant, leading to ineffective cooling. A lowered coolant level can indicate an internal problem with the EGR cooler, even though no visible signs of leakage are present.
External coolant leakage
The dried coolant residue left behind by a leaky EGR cooler may fall under the car or accumulate around the leakage point. Often, this can be seen, so it is easier to diagnose. Make sure your radiator coolant is not running low or leaking, especially if the leakage is the same color as your radiator coolant.
Check engine light
ECUs (Engine Control Units) often register fault codes when they detect discrepancies in a vehicle’s system. This will activate the check engine light. EGR coolers may become restricted or malfunction, causing this device to turn on. Check engine lights indicate that your engine components need to be checked regardless of how you see them.
What are the reasons my EGR cooler has failed?
A number of factors can lead to the failure of an EGR cooler. EGR coolers can be treated in some cases, but are often replaced.
The following are possible failures:
- Blockage: The coolant passageways in the EGR cooler can become clogged, preventing the exhaust gas from being effectively cooled. The EGR cooler must be removed and checked to determine this. It is possible, however, for a blockage to cause overheating or excessive fuel consumption.
- Corrosion: The application of an EGR cooler may influence its corrosion susceptibility. In low-temperature conditions, particulates may build up or acidic condensation may occur.
- Thermal stress: Using extreme temperatures repeatedly can crack or warp EGR coolers. A cooler is exposed to exhaust gas that reaches 800°C, which is quickly cooled to 200°C. The EGR cooler can be damaged over time, causing leaks or complete failure.
What to do if your EGR cooler is failing?
The sooner you take action if you suspect that your EGR cooler is failing, the better your chances of preventing further problems. In the combustion chamber, exhaust gases are recirculated using the EGR system to reduce harmful emissions. However, malfunctioning EGR coolers can allow hot exhaust gas into the cylinders, potentially damaging the engine and causing higher emissions. It is recommended that you inspect the EGR valve as well as the cooling components in order to resolve this issue.
In the event of an exhaust gas recirculation system failure, you should consider repairing or replacing your EGR cooler in order to minimize emissions while maintaining the efficiency of your vehicle.
You can trust Natrad technicians to diagnose and prescribe the most appropriate solution for EGR cooler failure on your vehicle. In addition to OEM EGR coolers, we also offer a range of aftermarket EGR coolers.
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