The average cost of EGR valve replacement in the UK is £260.

As a busy car owner, you want to save time and money on maintenance. The EGR valve is small but vital, helping reduce emissions and improve engine efficiency. Over time, it can wear out or fail.

This article covers the signs of a failing EGR valve, replacement costs, factors that affect those costs, and simple tips to keep this vital part in good working condition.

Key takeaways

1. How much is an EGR valve replacement?
2. Average costs to replace an EGR valve by car make
3. Average costs to replace an EGR valve by location
4. Cleaning vs Replacing: What’s the Cost Difference?
5. What is an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve?
6. How long does an EGR valve replacement take?
7. Factors affecting EGR valve replacement costs
8. Signs that your EGR valve may need replacing
9. Will a car pass an MOT with a faulty EGR valve?
10. How to maintain your EGR valve and avoid unnecessary costs
11. Ways to save money on EGR replacement

How much is an EGR valve replacement?

The average cost to replace an EGR valve in the UK sits between £250-275. But prices can range up to £500 depending on the car.

Keep in mind these averages don’t apply to every make or model, so always check for your car. Compare dealers and independents to save, but dealers guarantee genuine parts.

We’ll break the common costs down below.

Average costs to replace an EGR valve by car make

Here’s a rough guide to EGR valve replacement costs for popular UK car makes.

Remember, these figures are estimates and can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

High replacement costs can leave you worried. Bumper's car repair finance can help you split the costs into interest-free monthly payments.

EGR valve replacement costs for notable models

Let’s go beyond the car makes. 

Here’s a look at EGR valve replacement costs for some of the UK’s most popular car models from the table above.

Average costs to replace an EGR valve by location

Location is also a significant factor in EGR valve prices. In addition to make and model, you need to consider labour prices in your area.

Here are some averages for UK cities:

Cleaning vs Replacing: What’s the Cost Difference?

Cleaning your EGR valve is often a more cost-effective option than replacing it, but it’s not always a long-term solution.

A professional EGR clean in the UK typically costs £100 to £180, depending on your car and the garage. By comparison, replacing an EGR valve can cost between £180 and over £500, once you include parts and labour.

Regular cleaning as part of maintenance can delay costly replacements and keep your engine running efficiently. However, if the valve is severely worn or damaged, replacement is typically the only viable option.

What is an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve?

The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases into the engine to cut emissions and improve efficiency. 

Over time, carbon buildup or wear can cause it to clog or fail, hurting performance and raising emissions, which may mean it needs replacing.

How long does an EGR valve replacement take?

Replacing an EGR valve usually takes one to three hours, depending on your car’s make, model, and parts availability.

For a precise estimate, ask your mechanic for a personalised time frame.

Factors affecting EGR valve replacement costs

Several factors affect how much it will cost to replace your vehicle’s EGR valve. Here’s a quick overview:

• Make and model of car — Different manufacturers use various EGR valve designs that affect availability and price. Luxury and high-performance vehicles often have more expensive parts, increasing overall costs.
• Complexity of the car’s EGR system — Cars with more complex systems can make EGR valve replacement more difficult and time-consuming, leading to higher labour costs.
• Your location — Labour rates for auto repairs vary widely depending on geographic location - urban areas like London with higher living costs generally have higher rates for automotive services.
• OEM vs aftermarket parts — OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are usually pricier than aftermarket options, but they're designed for your vehicle and come with a warranty, ensuring better quality control.

Signs that your EGR valve may need replacing

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to replace your EGR valve:

• Poor engine performance — Rough idling, stalling, or reduced power.
• Higher emissions and fuel consumption — A faulty valve increases emissions and lowers fuel efficiency.
• Check engine light — Diagnostic scans reveal EGR-related error codes.
• Engine knocking — Pre-ignition can cause knocking or pinging sounds.
• Failed emissions test —Elevated hydrocarbons or nitrogen oxides may point to a bad EGR valve.

Will a car pass an MOT with a faulty EGR valve?

No. If your EGR valve is faulty, your vehicle is highly likely to fail the MOT altogether. 

During an emissions test, your vehicle undergoes strict checks to measure its environmental impact and road safety. The EGR valve helps cut harmful emissions by recycling exhaust gases. If it fails, excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) escapes, raising pollution and health risks.

How to maintain your EGR valve and avoid unnecessary costs

Proper care of your EGR valve can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Key maintenance steps can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.

Regular maintenance

Regular engine maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial. This helps prevent EGR system issues and enhances overall vehicle performance.

Inspections and cleaning

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your EGR valve during service appointments can save money in the long run by maintaining performance and reducing failure risk.

Address related problems

Addressing issues with related components (like vacuum hoses, gaskets, and sensors) along with cleaning the EGR valve can prevent damage and costly repairs.

Monitor engine performance

Monitor engine performance regularly to catch issues early. 

If you notice rough idling or increased fuel consumption, have a professional mechanic check it promptly. Proactive care can prevent bigger problems.

Ways to save money on EGR replacement

If an EGR valve replacement feels pricey, try these tips to save money. 

If you’re confident, you can replace the valve yourself to cut labour costs, just be sure to follow safety steps and your repair manual. This isn’t recommended for most drivers.

It’s also smart to compare prices from different repair shops or online retailers to find the best deal on parts and labour. Another option is to use Bumper’s 0% interest financing to spread repair costs into easy monthly payments.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions at repair shops that can lower your bill. 

Lastly, consider reliable aftermarket EGR valves for potential savings, but make sure they are compatible with your vehicle.

Final thoughts

That’s a wrap on EGR valve replacement costs. This valve may not be on most drivers’ minds, but it’s essential for keeping your car healthy.

Regular maintenance, shopping around for the best prices, and considering aftermarket alternatives can all help you save money while keeping your car running smoothly.

And don’t forget to keep the valve clean!

Split the cost with Bumper

Whether you want to clean or replace your EGR valve, you can trust car repair finance to lessen the stress of the bill.

With Bumper, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.