VW Atlas EGR Failure: Power Loss and Smoke Warning

Had very similar issues on my VW Tiguan 2020 gasoline. The check engine light came on along with power loss and rough idling. The automotive repair shop confirmed a completely stuck EGR valve, which was causing incomplete combustion and affecting vehicle emissions. The EGR valve was clogged with carbon deposits, preventing proper exhaust gas recirculation. This explained the dark smoke and increased fuel consumption. The diagnosis showed the valve was stuck in a partially open position, causing the hissing sound you described. The repair involved removing and cleaning the entire EGR system, replacing the faulty valve, and performing a thorough emissions test afterward. This was a serious issue that needed immediate attention, as continuing to drive could have caused additional engine damage. After the repair, the engine ran smoothly again with normal power delivery and fuel consumption. The hissing noise disappeared completely. The shop also cleaned the intake manifold since carbon buildup had spread there as well. For proper diagnosis, having the trouble codes scanned is essential. These symptoms strongly suggest EGR valve issues, but other components in the emissions system could show similar signs.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the EGR repair. My rough idle and check engine issues were definitely similar to what you described. My catalytic converter was also affected by the carbon deposits, causing a noticeable drop in engine performance. The repair shop found a vacuum leak near the EGR valve that was contributing to the problems. Did you experience any other issues after getting yours fixed? Curious how much the total repair cost was in your case since I am comparing prices between different shops. Since the repair a month ago, my Atlas runs great with no power loss or dark smoke. The diagnostic scan showed everything back to normal, but I am still monitoring fuel consumption just to be sure.

Following up on the EGR valve issue, got it fixed last week and paid 355€ for the complete repair. The vacuum leak you mentioned was actually quite common with these faulty EGR valves. The mechanic discovered the valve was completely jammed, preventing proper exhaust gas recirculation. After the repair, my engine has been running perfectly with no additional problems. The rough idle disappeared completely and fuel consumption returned to normal levels. The vehicle emissions test they ran afterward showed everything working within spec. The carbon buildup cleanup was included in the repair cost, which helped prevent future issues with the catalytic converter. Having a proper diagnostic scan was key to identifying the exact problem and avoiding unnecessary parts replacement. One tip: regular engine maintenance helps prevent EGR valve issues. Since the repair, I have not experienced any power loss, smoke, or performance problems. The initial symptoms you described match exactly what I dealt with, and fixing the defective EGR valve resolved all of them.

Thanks for the helpful advice. I finally got my Atlas fixed last week after finding a reputable repair shop through recommendations. The mechanic confirmed the EGR valve was the main culprit causing my rough idle and power issues. The diagnostic scan revealed excessive carbon buildup affecting both the EGR system and catalytic converter. They cleaned out the entire system, replaced the faulty valve, and fixed a small vacuum leak they discovered during inspection. The check engine light is now off and the vehicle emissions are back to normal. Total repair cost came to 430€ including parts and labor. The shop was thorough and showed me the damaged components. After a week of driving, the engine runs smooth with no jerking or dark smoke. Fuel economy has improved significantly and that annoying hissing sound is completely gone. The emissions test they ran after the repair showed everything working properly. Really glad I got this fixed before it caused more serious engine damage. Going to stay on top of maintenance from now on to prevent similar issues.