I have a 1999 I30 that was manufactured late in the year. Like 5/99 or 6/99. Is the EGR valve different for the late model 99s? It seems that its not vacuum controlled like what I've read for the 95 or 97s. At first glance today, it appears there is an electrical connector on it. So would this mean I don't have the EGR solenoid and such?

I have the dreaded P0400 code and I have already cleaned out the EGR tube going from the intake manifold to the EGR bank. So I was trying to see if I had a bad EGR solenoid or if vacuum was reaching the EGR valve. But I believe the EGR is motor driven on the 1999s, correct?

 

You are right. On the 99 models they used a stepper design electric EGR versus a vacuum design. It is a bit more a pain in the butt.

In the FSM that I have there is a very VERY lengthy diagnostics and how to address this code. There is a number of things that can trigger this code. Try getting a hold of an FSM so you can narrow it down.

 

Start on page 315 in the FSM

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/I30/1999/ec.pdf

 

Ok, thanks guys!

 

My 99 had this issue with the EGR, I cleaned out the tube first, but was still getting problems. Ended up replacing the EGR valve itself.

 

And replacing the valve itself fixed it? The EGR valves aren't cheap. Most places have them over $100. I hate to toss a new valve on it and not fix the issue. I guess I need to go thru the FSM and see if I can test out the valve first.

 

yes it did. if you have high mileage the valve is probably defective. I suspect the internal passages get blocked over time. but if there is a diagnostic procedure I would certainly try that first.

 

Yeah, the car has 206k miles on it. This would be the third time I've cleaned out the EGR tube going from the intake to the EGR. The last 2 times (each several years apart) cleaning the tube fixed the issue. This time cleaning out the tube didn't fix the code.

 

Same deal on my 99 I30. I "fixed" mine by disconnecting the 99's EGR temp sensor at the connector and plugging in a temp sensor from my totalled 95. I just tucked the 95 sensor in between a coolant hose located near the firewall and the protective sleeve. I haven't had the EGR code come up in more than 10,000 miles. I hope this helps.

Andy

 

Yeah, I think I read someone saying just unscrew the EGR temp sensor from the EGR tube and let it dangle near the firewall. Then plug up the hole in the tube and be done. But didn't know if that would work or not. I guess it would be cheap to buy the appropriate plug from home depot and just try it. I don't have access to another maxima.

 

In one of the procedures it mentions the egr temp sensor can go bad and it will throw that code. I have an extra egr temp sensor laying around... If you want il let it go for free plus shipping ($5 bucks?) if you need it. Just let me know...

 

the block off plates & hanging sensor didnt clear the p0400 on my 99se.
cleaning the tube more thoroughly this time did it a couple months back. time will tell, i dont drive the car much