Rep Power: 0

So I got a CEL on my honda civic 97 hx . It gave me 80. So I went ahead a cleaned the EGR Valve. The CEL is still there, so I did the battery trick to "reset" it and got it to disappear. So my question is if thats how you retest the issue?

 
Rep Power: 518

Short answer is, "You drive it until the light comes back on, then you will know it's still broke."




Post with a P code format next time, flash codes mean almost nothing to me and can be far too vague to be of real value.
This would have been a P0401 code, that means a lot to me.

If you understood more about the code definition and what the computer had to detect in order to set the code, you might have been able to figure out more of this on your own. The info is out there.






Silver Bullet:

This code is defined as "insufficient EGR flow". Meaning the passages are clogged with carbon (typical).
Clean the passages between the EGR valve and the intake manifold until all sections are completely cleared of carbon blockage and free flowing.
HOW you do this varies with the design of the passages and manifolds. Each version can be very different.

HINT:
(Assuming this pic matches your manifold.)
The EGR distribution plate is made up of parts 11 and 12. Remove them, clean all traces of carbon from those and from the passages AND clean out the small hole in each intake runner.

 
Rep Power: 0

Okay, so I've only cleaned the actual valve, do i have to spray carburetor cleaner into the pipes where the valve connects? my civic has the d16y5 engine so its a little different from that picture, so i just have to spray and wipe it off?

 
Rep Power: 518

I found that pic in the HX area of a catalog.

Post a pic of whatever version you have, maybe I can tell more.


If yours doesn't have that access plate like in the pic above, I'd need to see what you have. There are several different configurations possible.

You need to locate the passage between the EGR mount and the intake manifold, and clean it out. Whatever configuration it is.

Carb spray normally can't do anything worthwhile, and just trying to clean the valve isn't fixing the problem.

Roto-Rooter is one way to get the carbon blockage out.
Burning it out is another (my fave when possible, huh huh huh!).



Remove the EGR valve and look. There are 2 openings. One leads to the exhaust, the other leads to the intake.
Start the engine up while the valve is removed. It should race and surge, not sit there and idle close to normally. The clogged passage needs to be a huge vacuum leak to the valve.


Follow that passage to the intake area. Where does it open into the intake? If it is right at the throttle body, maybe you can wedge the gas pedal down and work at it with a bent pick. IDK, each situation is different.

 
Rep Power: 0

I think it might actually be the same when taking a longer look. Which method would be best to do? I've never had experience in this area before so I have no idea how. The other day i just sprayed the carbon and scrubbed all i can with a toothbrush.

 
Rep Power: 518

Read this again: https://www.civicforums.com/forums/1...ml#post4635480