Volvo V60 Diesel EGR Valve Failure

Sounds like you’ve got a symphony of issues there! Reduced power, check engine light, smoke, rough running, higher fuel consumption, jerking, and hissing? That’s quite the list. The EGR valve is a common culprit on diesels, especially with that mileage, but have you checked for any obvious vacuum leaks? That hissing sound makes me wonder. And has the catalytic converter ever been replaced? Just trying to rule out some other possibilities before condemning the EGR valve.

Vacuum leaks, huh? Where exactly should I be looking for those? I'm not exactly a mechanic, but I can poke around a bit. And no, the catalytic converter is the original, as far as I know. Would a blocked catalytic converter cause those symptoms too?

Vacuum leaks can be tricky to pinpoint without proper tools, but listen carefully around the engine bay when it's running. Hissing is a good indicator. As for the catalytic converter, a blockage could definitely cause some of your symptoms, especially the reduced power and rough running, but the hissing and jerking are less typical for just a cat issue. Honestly, with that many symptoms pointing towards the EGR and your mileage, it's probably best to get it properly diagnosed at a reputable workshop. Save yourself the headache and potential for further damage. Better safe than sorry.

Thanks for the advice. You're right, messing around too much might just make things worse. Booked it in at the local garage, and they confirmed the EGR valve was shot. Repair cost me 355€ including parts and labour. Runs like a dream now!