Clean or replace EGR/Anti-Shudder Valve?

[jmurray01]

Since I bought my Passat (BKP engine) almost a year ago it has had an occasional vibration/shudder on idle that goes away as soon as you rev it even slightly, and 90% of the time isn't there at all! But as it does happen sometimes I can only imagine it will become more and more frequent until it becomes an issue so I want to nip it in the bud, especially as I plan on making an 1,000 mile round trip in October...

My question is, can the EGR/Anti-Shudder Valve (which I gather are one and the same thing?) be cleaned, and if so could I do that in my driveway with my limited mechanical knowledge? Or does it need to be replaced?

Sorry to sound completely stupid, but these modern diesels are a mystery to me!

[Gazwould]

Separate on B6 unlike B5.5 .

Throttle body has common fault of the stupid plastic cogs breaking , that's your issue .

[DMitch16]

Separate on B6 unlike B5.5 .

Throttle body has common fault of the stupid plastic cogs breaking , that's your issue .

For the OP - There are plastic cogs in the flap motor just to be clear.

Yes the flap unit (and EGR Valve) can be removed for cleaning but one of the bolts is a real pain to get to and undo. You would also need a new seal for between the two units if separated and EGR pipe gaskets as it is easier on some engines if the EGR pipe is loosened at both ends.

[jmurray01]

For the OP - There are plastic cogs in the flap motor just to be clear.

Yes the flap unit (and EGR Valve) can be removed for cleaning but one of the bolts is a real pain to get to and undo. You would also need a new seal for between the two units if separated and EGR pipe gaskets as it is easier on some engines if the EGR pipe is loosened at both ends.

Thanks Mitch, so would you say I'm better waiting until it gets worse then get my mechanic to replace it altogether? Or if I leave it could it suddenly "go" and cause a serious problem?

[DMitch16]

Thanks Mitch, so would you say I'm better waiting until it gets worse then get my mechanic to replace it altogether? Or if I leave it could it suddenly "go" and cause a serious problem?

If it 'goes' then the engine is likely to not start as the motor opens and regulates the flap. Shut flap is no start.

[jmurray01]

If it 'goes' then the engine is likely to not start as the motor opens and regulates the flap. Shut flap is no start.

OK, understood. In your experience, would you say I'd get some warning before it fails completely (like shuddering more frequently), or is it impossible to say?

I'm trying to weigh things up since I've just had to get the radiator replaced so I don't really have the cash to put it back into the garage again, but obviously I will if I have to.

[DMitch16]

OK, understood. In your experience, would you say I'd get some warning before it fails completely (like shuddering more frequently), or is it impossible to say?

I'm trying to weigh things up since I've just had to get the radiator replaced so I don't really have the cash to put it back into the garage again, but obviously I will if I have to.

Hard to say but if it is wear starting to the plastic gear teeth, and this is not yet confirmed, then it will get worse and running may suffer as the wear increases. Should any gear teeth break off then the situation would worsen immediately.