janawolf10

Silverado Rough Engine EGR Valve

I'm hoping someone can help out with my 2002 Chevy Silverado, gasoline engine. It's got a bit under 40k km on it. Lately, I've been experiencing some pretty rough engine behavior. The check engine light is on, and I've noticed a definite reduction in engine power. Plus, there's smoke puffing out when I accelerate, the engine runs rough, and my fuel consumption has gone way up. It also jerks a bit when accelerating, and I can hear a loud hissing sound, also when accelerating. After doing some digging, I'm suspecting it might be the EGR valve. Does this sound like a plausible cause? I've tried checking for any obvious vacuum leaks, but haven't found anything glaring. Any thoughts?

A 2002 Chevy Silverado is experiencing rough engine behavior, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and a check engine light, with smoke and a hissing sound during acceleration. These symptoms suggest a potential issue with the EGR valve, possibly due to a vacuum leak or the valve being stuck. A spray test can help identify leaks, but professional diagnosis is recommended to prevent further damage, such as to the catalytic converter. The issue was confirmed to be a defective EGR valve, which was repaired, resolving the problem.

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4 comment(s)

Sounds familiar. I've had similar issues with my Silverado. Reduced power, rough idle, and that check engine light glaring at me. That hissing sound especially points to a potential vacuum leak somewhere in the EGR system. It could definitely be the EGR valve itself, sticking open or closed. Think of it like a clogged artery in your engine's circulatory system. Have you checked the hoses connected to the EGR valve? Sometimes they crack or become loose, causing a vacuum leak that messes everything up.

Thanks for the quick reply! I appreciate the analogy, makes a lot of sense. I did a visual inspection of the hoses, but didn't find any obvious cracks. Is there a more reliable way to check for leaks in the EGR system, maybe with a spray or something? Also, if it IS the EGR valve, could that cause issues with the catalytic converter down the line?

A spray test with carb cleaner or similar can help pinpoint vacuum leaks, but be careful around hot engine components. As for the catalytic converter, yes, a faulty EGR valve can definitely cause problems. If the EGR valve isn't recirculating exhaust gases properly, it can throw off the air/fuel mixture, which can overload the catalytic converter and potentially damage it over time. Honestly, with those symptoms, especially the smoke and hissing, and given you have already tried looking around, I'd recommend taking it to a trusted workshop. They'll be able to diagnose the issue accurately and prevent further damage to your catalytic converter.

Appreciate the advice! Makes sense to get it checked professionally before I do more damage. Took it in, and you were spot on – the EGR valve was defective and jammed. Total repair cost was 355€ parts and labor. Runs like new now! Thanks again for the help.

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CHEVROLET

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SILVERADO