CEL Code P0401
CEL Code P0401
Help! My check engine light came on and I went to the auto store to get the code read. It came back Code P0401. It said something about the EGR Valve. Anyone ever had this code? How can I fix this myself? Any and all information and suggestions appreciated. Thanks!
1996 GS300 w/158,000 miles
1996 GS300 w/158,000 miles
Pit Crew
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 170
Likes: 35
From: OR
Pit Crew
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 170
Likes: 35
From: OR
Same thing, 95 and older are OBDI, 2 digit codes that can be pulled with a paper clip and counting the check engine light flashing. 96 and newer (like your GS) are OBDII which has the port for the on board diagnostics code reader that was required for all autos manufactured at that time.
I let my check engine light with the EGR system malfunction go for several months, found the indicated thread, got a headache from reading all of that information... Proceded to get bent over at the indy shop and had the EGR system serviced. If I remember right, ran me $300 + and I don't even know what all they did, I just know the CEL never came back on for that reason anymore. Didn't notice the car running any different before or after, nor increase or decrease in gas mileage but the light is on for a reason which certainly isn't doing the car any favors ignoring it, you know.
Good luck, Mike
I let my check engine light with the EGR system malfunction go for several months, found the indicated thread, got a headache from reading all of that information... Proceded to get bent over at the indy shop and had the EGR system serviced. If I remember right, ran me $300 + and I don't even know what all they did, I just know the CEL never came back on for that reason anymore. Didn't notice the car running any different before or after, nor increase or decrease in gas mileage but the light is on for a reason which certainly isn't doing the car any favors ignoring it, you know.
Good luck, Mike
Pit Crew
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 170
Likes: 35
From: OR
I just replied saying it's the same thing, which is just my opinion. It very well may be different but I believe similar cause and course of action would be required to fix. I'm no expert, just trying to point you in the right direction!
Last edited by Mikes94GS3; Jun 18, 2009 at 08:54 AM. Reason: fixed spelling
Pit Crew
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 170
Likes: 35
From: OR
I could probably dig up the sales ticket to confirm, it may have been more, I certainly remember thinking it was too much. But, then again I don't know how much / to what extent my shop did. Beyond DIY for me....
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Mike,
Do you know all of the things that they did? I did my own EGR modulator, EGR valve, couple of hoses and something else on my Toyota Landcruiser about four months ago. I don't know, I may let someone else do it for $200! :-)
Do you know all of the things that they did? I did my own EGR modulator, EGR valve, couple of hoses and something else on my Toyota Landcruiser about four months ago. I don't know, I may let someone else do it for $200! :-)
Pit Crew
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 170
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From: OR
I am unsure of what all they did back then, it has been the good part of a couple of years now. When I looked at the invoice the other day they had listed the valve and a couple types of cleaner which I guess flush the EGR system. Other than that it seems like $60 - $80 in parts and the rest in labor. Sorry, filed the slip away again and I'm at work now so can't double check at the moment.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 6
Likes: 1
From: CA
Solenoid/VSV on 96
What actuates the EGR on the 95-97 models? The earlier first gen has the modulator and other components, but the 96 I can't figure out. I thought no the VSV that is next to the valve is fuel related, not EGR related
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