The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system plays a crucial role in reducing emissions in your Honda Insight. Over time, the EGR valve can become clogged with carbon buildup, potentially affecting engine performance. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of cleaning the EGR valve on a Honda Insight, helping you maintain optimal engine health.
Remove the plastic engine cover to access the EGR valve components.
Preparing for the EGR Cleaning Process
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and replacement parts. You’ll need a 1/4″ drive universal joint, a 4″ 1/4″ drive extension, 10mm and 12mm sockets, pliers, a torque wrench, and a ratchet.
It’s crucial to have new gaskets on hand. Specifically, you’ll need a new EGR spacer gasket (Honda part number 209978). While reusing the old gasket might be tempting, it’s a crush-type gasket and replacing it ensures a proper seal.
While not strictly necessary, replacing the three intake manifold O-rings (Honda part number 209975) is recommended since they are inexpensive and readily available.
Step-by-Step EGR Valve Cleaning Instructions
1. Engine Cover Removal: Start by removing the plastic engine cover. This typically involves removing three 10mm bolts or nuts. Be mindful of the washers underneath the bolts and take precautions to avoid dropping them.
2. Cleaning the Intake Manifold Area: With the engine cover removed, use an air hose to thoroughly clean the intake manifold and EGR plate area. This will prevent dirt from entering the engine during the cleaning process.
3. Air Intake Tube Removal: Locate the 10mm bolt securing the air intake tube to the intake manifold. Remove the bolt and disconnect the tube from the airbox. Disconnect any hoses connected to the intake manifold.
Disconnect the hoses indicated by the green arrows before removing the intake manifold.
4. Intake Manifold Removal: Five 12mm bolts or nuts secure the intake manifold to the engine. The top three are generally easy to access. The bottom two, however, can be more challenging. A 1/4″ drive with a 4″ extension and universal joint will help reach these.
The red arrows indicate the easily accessible bolts, while the green arrows point to the more challenging ones.
5. EGR Plate Removal: After removing the intake manifold bolts, carefully pull back on the manifold and slide it off the studs. Once clear, you can remove the EGR plate.
The engine with the EGR plate removed and the intake manifold resting on the studs.
6. Cleaning the EGR Plate: With the EGR plate removed, you can clean it using a suitable cleaner. Be sure to follow the cleaner’s instructions.
7. Reassembly: Once the EGR plate is clean, reassemble everything in reverse order, ensuring you use the new gaskets and O-rings. Torque all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Maintaining Your Honda Insight’s EGR System
Regular cleaning of the Egr Honda system, particularly the EGR valve, is essential for optimal engine performance and longevity. This relatively simple procedure can prevent costly repairs down the road. By following this guide, you can keep your Honda Insight running smoothly and efficiently.
