How do you clean an EGR valve and where is it located?

Cleaning the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can sometimes help restore its function if it's clogged with carbon deposits. Here's a general guide on how to clean the EGR valve on a 1997 Dodge Neon:

1. Locate the EGR Valve: The EGR valve on a 1997 Dodge Neon is typically located on the engine's intake manifold or near the throttle body. It has a round or rectangular metal body with an electrical connector and a vacuum hose attached to it.

2. Disconnect the Battery: To ensure safety during the cleaning process, disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery.

3. Remove the EGR Valve: Loosen and remove the bolts securing the EGR valve to the intake manifold or throttle body. Carefully disconnect the electrical connector and vacuum hose from the EGR valve. Keep in mind that you may need to remove other components obstructing access to the EGR valve, depending on its location.

4. Inspect the EGR Valve: Examine the EGR valve for signs of carbon buildup or clogging. Carbon deposits can block the valve's movement and hinder its operation.

5. Clean the EGR Valve: You can use a carburetor cleaner or a specialized EGR valve cleaner to remove carbon deposits. Spray the cleaner directly onto the valve's internal passages and use a brush or a soft cloth to scrub away the carbon buildup.

6. Check the Valve's Movement: With the valve clean, manually move the valve's diaphragm or pintle (depending on the type of EGR valve) to ensure it moves freely. A sticky or non-responsive valve may still cause issues even if it's clean.

7. Reinstall the EGR Valve: Once the EGR valve is clean and moving freely, reattach it to the intake manifold or throttle body. Reconnect the electrical connector and vacuum hose securely.

8. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of the car battery.

After cleaning the EGR valve, it's a good idea to reset the car's computer (ECU) to clear any stored trouble codes. This can be done by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes or using a scan tool to clear the codes.

Keep in mind that cleaning the EGR valve is a temporary solution, and if the valve is severely damaged or malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. If you're not confident in performing this task yourself, it's best to have a qualified mechanic handle the cleaning or replacement for you.