Toyota Repair: 2000 Toyota Camry EGR Problems, clogged catalytic converter, egr valve

Question
I have a 2000 Toyota Camry with the OBD Codes P0401 "EGR Insufficient Flow" and P0402 "EGR Excessive Flow".  I have had the EGR VSV and Modulator replaced.  I was told the EGR valve was good and did not need to be replaced.  After picking my car up from the shop, the check engine light came back on.  I took it to have a diagnostic and the same two codes showed up. My car has rough idling, sputtering, burning excessive gas and loss of power. The mechanic said I may have a bad ECM.  Is that possible??? I also have replaced the upstream oxygen sensor, but that did not help the problem. CAN ANYONE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!

Answer
Ryan,

Before they replace that ECM you need to make sure the EGR valve is not staying on. Feel that metal tube that goes into the bottom of the EGR valve. With the engine at idle it should be cool or engine room temp. If the EGR is open and flowing gas it will be very hot.  A clogged catalytic converter or broken EGR valve spring can allow the exhaust back pressure to open the valve.


Good Luck!!!