The 3 Warning Signs of a Bad EGR Temperature Sensor (& Their Replacement Cost)

Your dashboard displays the unwelcome Check Engine Light, causing anxiety and confusion once more. A scan of your trouble codes will reveal that you have a problem with the EGR temperature sensor. While this problem is easy to fix, it can cause a lot of trouble until it’s repaired.

Bad EGR temperature sensors can cause the Check Engine Light (CEL) to turn on. This can also cause engine sounds like pinging and knocking. However, some people don’t know about the problem until the emissions test is failed, showing the system isn’t working as it should. 

We will be taking a close look at the EGR temperature sensor symptoms in this guide. This guide will show you exactly where to find the EGR sensor, how it works and how much it costs to fix it. 

EGR Temperature Sensor Signs

1. Verify Engine Light

If the engine computer sees that there is a problem with any signal or sensor, it will light up the warning lamp. In the event that the EGR sensor has gone bad, or is malfunctioning the warning light will illuminate on your dashboard.

However, a Check Engine Light alone isn’t going to tell you that the EGR temperature sensor is failing. The OBDII code reader will scan the system to determine if the Check Engine Light is on. There are many reasons why the Check Engine Light may come on. If you aren’t sure what the trouble code means, it’s easy to look it up online. 

2. Engine Noises

It is something that no one wants to hear, and this problem is caused by the EGR temperature sensor. It is possible to hear a knocking or pinging sound before the Check Engine Light flashes. 

As the EGR temperature sensor fails, issues are caused by the system’s flow. Any change in the flow could cause temperature rises within the cylinders, which can lead to alarming noises. The noise can also resemble something metallic that’s rattling inside the engine, showing there’s an issue with combustion. 

Never ignore the warning signs of an engine ping or knock. It’s possible that the issue is greater than just a failing EGR temperature sensor. You should get an immediate diagnosis to determine the cause and fix it. 

RELATED: 7 Engine Noises You Should Not Ignore (& What They Mean)

3. Failure to pass the emissions test

A failing EGR temperature sensor could cause an engine to fail when you take it for an emissions test. Sometimes, the Check Engine Light may not turn on in some cases. This could indicate a failing EGR temperature sensor. An incorrect sensor could give false results or even fail entirely. 

You could be fined if you fail to comply with emission tests in your region. Emission problems can also cause more harm. You might see your car consume more fuel. This can cause problems with the catalytic convert, which can be costly to repair. 

RELATED : What Is A Smog Check? (& How to Pass It)

Position of the EGR temperature sensor

EGR temperature sensors are part of the exhaust system. The sensor is located on the exhaust manifold. It’s either mounted right to the manifold or it can also be located by the EGR valve. 

It’s simple to take the old EGR temperature sensor off. First, disconnect the negative battery cable. The electrical connector that connects to the sensor can be removed from this point. You will need to press down on the tab before you remove it. You will need a compatible wrench, ratchet or key to remove the sensor. 

Funktion

EGR is an acronym for exhaust gas temperature sensor. It’s an electrical sensing probe responsible for monitoring the EGR gas temperatures. It also transmits the signal it detects to the engine computer. 

EGR temperature sensors are an essential part of exhaust gas recirculation systems. This sensor is used in combination with the EGR solenoid and controls the flow within the EGR system. The exhaust gas temperature is measured between the intake manifold and the exhaust manifold. 

The EGR temperature sensor transmits a signal to engine computer when the temperature rises. The computer can pump more air to lower the pressure. 

Prices for EGR Temperature Sensor Replacement

An EGR replacement temperature sensor can cost anywhere from $200 to $300. While labor costs $50-75, the cost of the replacement EGR temperature sensor will add between $150 and $225. It is possible to save significant money by replacing the EGR temperature sensor yourself.

Don’t procrastinate replacing the EGR temperature sensor at the first sign of trouble. You are allowing fuel consumption to increase and the catalytic convert will suffer more damage until it can be repaired. This simple step will prevent costly repairs, especially considering that the cost of replacing a catalytic converter is $900-$2,500. 

The EGR Temperature Sensor should be cleaned

While you might need to replace the EGR temperature sensor, this shouldn’t be your first step. It is better to clean the sensor before you replace it. You can usually resolve most issues with this one-step solution. Carbon buildup on sensors can cause it to transmit incorrect data back from the computer, which leads to system malfunction. 

Cleaning the EGR temperature sensor doesn’t take a lot of effort and you don’t need any special chemicals. You should not use chemicals to clean the electronic as you could cause more damage. You can simply wipe it down with a dry and clean cloth. You might see the buildup removed, especially if it hasn’t ever been cleaned. 

You can test the sensor to confirm that it is working. The sensor will need to be replaced if it is still experiencing the same problem after cleaning.