The first thing we recommend doing is checking your Toyota Camry for any new trouble codes using a trouble code scanner. If you find the same EGR trouble code(s) which caused the first smog check failure you'll need to go back to the EGR repairs performed and double check the EGR valve operation.
A defective EGR valve will not open or close when vacuum is applied. In this case you've indicated the EGR valve does open and close, and probably holds vacuum. The next step is to find out whether the EGR passages are plugged with carbon deposits or if the passages are open.
The way to test this out is to start your Toyota Camry and let it run at idle. Disconnect the EGR valve's vacuum line and apply direct vacuum using a vacuum hand pump to open the EGR valve manually. When (and if) the valve opens; if the passages are clean and open, you should notice a large RPM decrease. If the passages are plugged up, you will not see any RPM difference.
If your Toyota Camry's RPM decreases when the EGR valve is opened, this will indicate the passages are open and you should move on to making sure vacuum is getting to the EGR valve modulator. It is possible your Toyota Camry is not opening the EGR valve at the right time, or at all. Using a vacuum gauge, inspect vacuum at all points from the intake manifold to the EGR valve while your Camry's engine is slightly off idle.
If there is no RPM decrease, the passages may be plugged with carbon deposits. You will need to remove the EGR valve and clean all passages within the valve and within your engine's intake and exhaust passages.
posted by SmogTips Support
