P0400 Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) is an emissions control technology employed in internal combustion engines to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. It works by redirecting a portion of the engine’s exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber. By introducing exhaust gases, which have a lower oxygen content than fresh air, into the combustion process, the peak temperatures during combustion are reduced. This, in turn, lowers the formation of NOx, a major contributor to air pollution and smog. The EGR system typically includes a valve that controls the flow of exhaust gases and a cooler to reduce their temperature before reintroduction. EGR has become a standard feature in modern vehicles and plays a crucial role in meeting stringent emissions regulations while maintaining engine performance and efficiency.

Definition of P0400 EGR

The basic definition of the P0400 EGR code corresponds to Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Malfunction. (EGR valve)

What the P0400 code means
P0400 belongs to OBD-II generic code. It points out that the engine control module (ECM) has detected some problems with the exhaust gas. Mostly it means that the engine EGR valve is not flowing recirculated exhaust gases properly. The ECM monitors the command to open the flow of gases into the intake manifold. If there is any abnormality in the system the car sets the DTC and the vehicle goes into Limp mode. Limp mode means that the Check engine light is now on and the vehicle requires immediate attention. The code is monitored explicitly by the EPA, MOT, maintenance, and inspection companies and sometimes the vehicles are written off if the intake has oil in it. The Check Engine Light on will cause the vehicle to fail emission testing from excessive NOx gases.

Significance and requirement of EGR
Any diesel or petrol vehicle having EGR will perform very well in cold climates. This is due to the fact that fuels burn properly and completely in certain temperature ranges. Especially in climates having less than -5 Degree Celsius. This caused the complete burning of any excess or unburnt fuel. Now that the engines are becoming more and more efficient, bad EGR,s can cause permanent damage to the engine, or a bad engine can cause permanent damage to the EGR assembly.

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In Pakistan hot climate and poor fuel having excess MMT are known to cause permanent damage to the engine assembly as it continuously pumps hot air to the intake system. This damages the intake valves and causes damage to the valve stems. Valve stem damage is known to create oil consumption. Toyota Prius has an inherent problem of high oil consumption and we have found out that the problem is with the EGR assembly that is continuously pumping hot air in the system.

Chip Tuning / Reflash or deleting EGR units

Our team specializes in reflashing or chip-tuning the ECM of Toyota to pump less air into the system. This helps in achieving colder head temperature in effect the life of coils and spark plugs gets better. After the firmware upgrade, we have seen that the pickup of the vehicle is increased.

Common causes of P0400

• EGR not holding vacuum or a vacuum leak
• The onboard temperature sensor in the EGR assembly is not registering temperature change
• Blockage in the EGR passages
• Difference between the cylinder pressure
• Oil consumption due to worn-out engine

What are the symptoms of the P0400 code?
Usually, the Check Engine Light will be illuminated and the code is set in ECM memory. Some engines show excessive engine ignition ping or knock-on acceleration.

Diagnostics of P0400

• Scanning of the ECM and review of the parameters of ignition
• Clearing the engine codes and road test
• Visual inspection of the vacuum hoses, the wiring, and the connections of the EGR valve
• The function of control solenoid
• Excessive carbon buildup in the EGR assembly may point to a worn-out engine

EGR vs EGT
Some people confuse EGT with EGR, however, EGT means exhaust gas temperature and applies to vehicles having diesel fuel or turbo.

How serious is the P0400 code?
A failed EGR valve can cause the engine to have excessive ignition and that can cause internal engine damage to the piston and valves.

What happens when EGR is bad?

when the EGR system is not working correctly, it can cause various problems that can affect the engine’s performance, fuel economy, and emissions. It’s essential to have any issues with the EGR system diagnosed and repaired promptly to avoid more significant problems down the road.

EGR Service of Hilux 2GD

Solution for a bad EGR
If you need help with the P0400 and have tried multiple exhaust gas recirculation assemblies to no avail, feel free to visit us or have the tuned ECM shipped to your destination in Pakistan. Fixmycar.pk has a complete solution for a car showing the Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0400, P0401, P0402, or P0403.

Call 0331-2227989 to make your appointment for service of any vehicle, we offer on-site service of any vehicle by our highly equipped and trained staff at the customer’s premises.

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