Aux. emission controls problem on my Accord

[Q]

Got a check engine light today, went to Advance Auto Parts and got a free check. Spit back the code p1491 Aux. emission controls. I have a weird sounding exhaust (must have a hole somewhere, and yes it's stock) so this wasn't too surprising - I was actually glad it wasn't something more serious.

After Googling, I found that EGR ports may have some buildup or something needs to be cleaned. Is this something that can wait a week (can't get car to shop till then if I have to) - I only drive about 5 miles a day?

 

[Bignate603]

Yes, it's not going to kill anything to drive around for a while with a sticking EGR valve. However, you can do a decent job of cleaning out your EGR valve at home with a bottle of throttle body cleaner and a toothbrush. As long as it is accessible this is something you can do pretty easily in an hour or two.

 

[Q]

Originally posted by: Bignate603
Yes, it's not going to kill anything to drive around for a while with a sticking EGR valve. However, you can do a decent job of cleaning out your EGR valve at home with a bottle of throttle body cleaner and a toothbrush. As long as it is accessible this is something you can do pretty easily in an hour or two.

Yeah I have considered doing that, found a very good website with detailed instructions and pictures. Thanks for the reply.

 

[NutBucket]

Unfortunately, the valve itself may not be the problem. It may be the actual EGR passages in the intake manifold that need to be cleaned.

But, get the hole fixed and verify the valve is operating correctly before proceeding

 

[Q]

Old thread I know, but after reviewing the instructions again, I don't want to mess with the car. I suppose I'm just going to take it to my local shop. Any guestimate on what you guys would think it'd cost?

 

[CrackRabbit]

Old thread I know, but after reviewing the instructions again, I don't want to mess with the car. I suppose I'm just going to take it to my local shop. Any guestimate on what you guys would think it'd cost?

It was about $700 for my GF's former PT Cruiser, but I don't think that is typical. They had to do a lot of work just to get at it (removal of one of the intake manifold was part of it), the part itself wasn't that expensive.

 

[NutBucket]

Assuming this a 90-02 Accord the EGR valve is cake to replace if its really the problem. Cleaning the EGR passages is a tedious process if that's what's required.

Proceed with caution.

 

[Q]

Assuming this a 90-02 Accord the EGR valve is cake to replace if its really the problem. Cleaning the EGR passages is a tedious process if that's what's required.

Proceed with caution.

Well getting an estimate is what I need then.
This was the link by the way
http://www.dhost.info/accordinfo/howto/egr.html