What it means
EGR throttle B is electrically OK but does not move as commanded — typically carbon buildup or a sticking actuator.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
EGR throttle B helps restrict intake flow on some engines so exhaust gas can be recirculated more effectively. P213B sets when its electrical circuit appears functional but the control module sees movement or feedback outside the expected range, which can happen if carbon makes the throttle stick or its position feedback has drifted.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Carbon buildup restricts movement
- Sensor element aged beyond calibration window
- Sensor mounting loose - signal damping
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Pinging or knocking under load
- Power loss and hesitation
- Possible rough idle
- Failed emissions inspection (NOx)
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and use scan-tool commands or live data, if available, to compare commanded and reported EGR throttle B position.
- Inspect the B throttle body and linkage for heavy carbon deposits, binding, or a loose mounting that could impede travel or affect feedback.
- Check the actuator connector and wiring for poor contact and verify power, ground, and position feedback against the manufacturer's specification.
- With the manufacturer's procedure, test whether EGR throttle B moves smoothly through its commanded range and whether feedback follows without sticking.
- If movement and wiring are sound but feedback remains out of range, test the actuator position sensor and control-module response according to the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Clean carbon from the EGR throttle B passage and moving parts using an approved procedure.
- Tighten a loose actuator or sensor mounting that affects movement or feedback.
- Repair poor connector contact or damaged B actuator and feedback wiring.
- Replace the sticking or failed EGR throttle B actuator or position sensor assembly if testing confirms the fault.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine runs smoothly and has normal power, limited driving may be possible, but avoid heavy load if it pings, knocks, or hesitates. Continued operation can worsen drivability and increase NOx emissions, and rough running or power loss should prompt stopping somewhere safe.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.