Hyundai Repair: 03 Sant Fe code - P0401, egr solenoid, powertrain warranty

Question
2003 Santa Fe 2.4L

The MIL light is constantly on with one code of P0401.  Which I believe is an EGR malfunction.  The vehicle does NOT have any derivability problems associated with this code at this time.

The vehicle has almost 56000 miles on it now.  Do you think this is covered under warranty repairs?  If not, which items should I start to test first?  The manual I have doesn't have much info on troubleshooting the EGR system.  Also would the timing belt be covered under warranty repair even though it is a maintenance item since it is about time to change it?

Answer
Just about everything that would cause a P0401 code should be covered under the 5/60 warranty.  I'd recommend taking to the dealer for diagnosis and repair.  

You can make a basic test by pinching the yellow-striped hose on the throttle body with the engine idling.  If the engine begins to stumble, you know that all the hoses are properly connected, that the EGR valve opens, and that the EGR passages are clear.  That pretty much leaves the EGR solenoid and vacuum control valve as the most likely potential problems.

Your timing belt is covered under the 10/100 powertrain warranty (if you're the original owner) as long as you replace it at the proper interval, 4 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.  According to the owner's manual, this is required everywhere except California.  You should make absolutely certain that you replace the timing and balance shaft belts on your vehicle prior to exceeding 60,000 miles.  I've seen many timing belts fail on this engine close to the recommended maintenance interval.  If you're over 60,000 (and the vehicle is not registered in California) with the original belt, it won't be covered by your warranty.  Keep in mind that the warranty only covers items that aren't working properly.  The only way to get a warranty replacement of your timing belt is for it to fail within the warrantable period.