T-Cross Power Loss & Smoke Points to EGR Valve Failure

Had similar issues with a T-Roc (2020) last winter. The symptoms matched exactly, power loss, rough idle, and black smoke from exhaust. The check engine light triggered multiple fault codes related to the EGR valve. The EGR valve was completely stuck open due to carbon buildup, causing uncontrolled exhaust gas recirculation. This led to serious engine performance issues and risked damaging the catalytic converter if left unfixed. The vacuum leak from the stuck valve was causing the hissing sound you described. The repair involved removing and cleaning the EGR valve, plus cleaning the intake manifold which had significant carbon deposits. The mechanic also performed a diagnostic check of the entire emissions system to ensure no other components were affected. The repair was necessary and time-sensitive, running the engine with a faulty EGR valve can lead to increased engine wear and potential catalytic converter damage. In diesel engines, this issue is more common, but it affects gasoline engines too. After the repair, fuel economy returned to normal and the engine ran smoothly again. Most importantly, the check engine light cleared and hasn't returned since.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had almost identical symptoms with my VW last year when the EGR system failed the emissions test. Ended up being a combination of carbon buildup and a vacuum leak near the valve. Good to hear cleaning solved your issue. Did you remember roughly how much the repair cost? And has everything stayed running smoothly since the fix? My mechanic quoted quite a high price so trying to gauge if its reasonable before proceeding with repairs.

Since that repair on my T-Roc, everything has run perfectly. The EGR valve defective condition was fully resolved with no recurring issues. The entire exhaust gas recirculation system works flawlessly now and the engine performs like new. The total repair cost was 355€ which included a full diagnostic check, removal and cleaning of the valve, plus labor. The price seems fair given the technical work involved and the importance of proper emissions control. A malfunctioning EGR can quickly lead to failed emissions tests and potential catalytic converter damage if left unrepaired. Looking back, it was worth every cent, the improved fuel economy alone has helped offset the repair cost. The check engine light has stayed off and the engine runs smoothly with no power loss or smoke issues. Regular maintenance since then has kept the system clean and working properly. From my experience, addressing EGR problems promptly helps avoid more expensive repairs down the road. The quote you received might be on the higher side, but proper EGR repair requires specialized knowledge and careful attention to detail.

After reading all the helpful advice, I finally took my T-Cross to a new mechanic last week. The rough idle and check engine warning were spot on indicators of EGR valve issues. The mechanic found heavy carbon deposits causing the valve to stick, plus a small vacuum leak in the connecting hose. Total repair came to 410€ which included cleaning the EGR valve, replacing the faulty vacuum line, and running full diagnostics. While higher than expected, seeing the grimy buildup they cleaned out made the cost seem justified. The exhaust gas recirculation system needed serious attention. The car runs perfectly now, no more power loss or smoke issues. Fuel consumption is back to normal and that annoying hissing sound is gone. Really glad I didnt wait longer as the mechanic mentioned possible catalytic converter damage if left unfixed. Thanks again for sharing your experiences. Having that knowledge helped me better understand the repair process and feel more confident with the new shop.