Dreaded EGR P0401 fault code... can't find what's wrong

foliva

Active member
Joined
May 18, 2014
Location
Mexico
TDI
Jetta (Bora) MK5 1.9 PD TDI
Hi, so I got the dreaded P0401 fault code. But can't find the problem. :confused:

Judging from this readings (block 3), seems there is an obstruction on the flow.


I took a look at the EGR valve (disengaging the large black hose, etc.); a bit greasy inside but nothing else. While not a comprehensive inspection, seems diagram/solenoids are working just fine.

What may be wrong? Tempted to fully uninstall/clean the EGR valve (as I did 50k miles ago) but since it's PITA, I'd rather hear a second opinion.

Thank you for your input.
 

meerschm

Top Post Dawg
Joined
Apr 18, 2009
Location
Fairfax county VA
TDI
2009 Jetta wagon DSG 08/08 205k buyback 1/8/18; replaced with 2017 Golf Wagon 4mo 1.8l CXBB
I would try cleaning it again.


you might get another 50k
 

runonbeer

Maintenance EnthusiastVendor
Joined
Apr 15, 2002
Location
Austin, TX/Chapel Hill, NC
TDI
'00 Golf 02M, '10 Golf 02E, '02 UTE 02M
Observe the values as you run a basic settings exercise in block 003. You may also remove the EGR valve from the back side of the manifold, lay it atop the the motor while still connected electrically and output test the valve to determine if it is responding to control.
 

foliva

Active member
Joined
May 18, 2014
Location
Mexico
TDI
Jetta (Bora) MK5 1.9 PD TDI
Any suggestions? So I had the EGR removed and cleaned. Warmed engine and plugged VCDS cable. No change on Block 3 :(. This are the readings:



These are other readings I got from running some tests:





Thanks!!
 

runonbeer

Maintenance EnthusiastVendor
Joined
Apr 15, 2002
Location
Austin, TX/Chapel Hill, NC
TDI
'00 Golf 02M, '10 Golf 02E, '02 UTE 02M
Looks like it’s responding to command in BS003 though I can’t really remember if those are plausible absolute values. Is the throttle valve working? What happens when you clear the fault? Does it come back right away?
 
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