Citroen C5 EGR Valve Problem

I'm having a nightmare with my 2012 Citroen C5 diesel. It's done 111599 km. The engine's lost a lot of power, and the check engine light is constantly on. When I accelerate, especially uphill, there's lots of smoke. The engine runs really rough, and my fuel consumption has gone through the roof! It feels like the car is jerking when I accelerate, and there's a loud hissing sound when accelerating too. Someone mentioned a vacuum leak, but I'm clueless. Could it be something to do with vehicle emissions or recirculation? It feels like a rough idle, but constantly. Help!

4 comment(s)

Sounds like you might have an EGR valve issue. I had similar symptoms with my old Vauxhall Astra, though no smoke. Reduced power and the engine light were the first signs. The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve is part of your car's emissions system. It recirculates exhaust gases back into the engine to reduce emissions. If it's stuck open or closed, it can cause all sorts of problems.

EGR valve, huh? I've heard that mentioned before. So, if it's stuck, is it something I can fix myself, or am I looking at a trip to the garage? And is it dangerous to drive with it like this, or will I just be polluting more than usual?

I wouldn't recommend tackling it yourself unless you're confident with car mechanics. On my Astra it was stuck pretty tight. Driving it with a faulty EGR isn't dangerous as such, but it's not good for the engine in the long run and you'll definitely fail an emissions test. Best bet is to get it checked at a workshop.

Thanks a lot for the advice! I took it to the workshop, and you were spot on – it was the EGR valve. Turns out it was defective and jammed solid. Cost me 355€ to get it replaced, but the car is running perfectly now!

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