1998 Camry 4cyl EGR Valve EGR EGR Vacuum Solenoid

[jeffgent3029]

Hello, I wrote an eariler post about how to replace the EGR Valve. Someone responded with an EXCELLENT reply with pictures on how to change the EGR Valve, which has helped more that imagined. However this isnt the only problem. See the code that AUTO Zone told me was code PO401 Definition EGR system fault (Exhaust gas recirculation) The ECM has detected too little flow on the EGR Valve. Probable cause: 1.blocked passage on EGR system 2.failed EGR valve 3.EGR solenoed faulty 4.failed EGR Pressure sensor (where applicable) 5. failed EGR position sensor (where applicable) O.K. that list of five things was what Auto zone printed out for me.

Now the post I got eariler was for replacing EGR Valve. Now does anyone have a post with pictures or diagrams of how to replace the EGR soleniod???? See auto zone told me that if replacing the EGR valve didnt work, then it is probably the EGR solenoid, but i dont see any posts on here on how to change it or even where its located???

Next question is if i find a post, or someone kindly email me one, about how to change the EGR Solenoid and I do change it. If the check engine light is still on, then does anyone have a picture or easy chart on how to replace the EGR Pressure sensor or the EGR position sensor???

Please help me because i am not mechanically inclined, but however, i can follow pictures and diagrams very well, with detailed instructions.

THANK YOU ANYONE WHO CAN HELP ME!!!!!!

[Yuko]

The EGR VSV (vacuum switching valve) is the cause for most P0401. It is mounted behind the engine block. I had this same code four years ago. I removed it and found it to be jammed up with gunk. Clean it out, made sure it work, and reinstall it. Code went away. But jammed out again and I brought a new one at the part store for $50. The Camry has three VSVs so be sure to get the of the EGR.

The VSV is shown here by the red arrow and this is looking at it from behind the right front wheel right under the intake on the 2.2L. It's held on by one 10mm bolt and has two vacuum lines and one wire plug. Clean the vacuum line too, one of them goes to the EGR and might be clog.


The second most common cause for P0401 is heavy carbon build up in the EGR valve itself. This is more common on higher mileage Camry and requires removal of the EGR to clean it and the pipe running to it.