What it means
EGR vent solenoid drive line stuck low — short to ground. EGR mixes inert exhaust into intake to lower combustion peak temperature — too little raises NOx, too much causes misfires and rough running.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The EGR vent solenoid releases vacuum from the EGR actuator to help it return to its reset position. The control module monitors the vent solenoid drive circuit and sets this code when the line is electrically low, commonly because it is shorted to ground, preventing the expected control signal.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Short to ground
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Harness chafing through insulation
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 review related EGR codes and live data for evidence that vent or EGR operation changed when the fault set.
- Inspect the vent solenoid connector and harness for chafing, corrosion, bridged pins, or contact with ground.
- With the circuit isolated as directed by the manufacturer, check whether the vent control line has an unintended connection to ground.
- Test the vent solenoid and its control circuit using the manufacturer's procedure to separate a wiring short from a failed solenoid or driver.
- After repair, clear the code and confirm the vent circuit responds correctly during an EGR system check.
Common fixes
- Repair harness insulation where the vent control wire is shorted to ground.
- Clean or repair corroded or bridged connector pins.
- Replace the vent solenoid if it fails the manufacturer's electrical checks.
- Repair the control module driver only if the circuit and solenoid test correctly and module testing confirms failure.
Can I keep driving?
You can usually drive gently if the engine runs smoothly, but avoid heavy loads if it pings, hesitates, or loses power. Incorrect EGR operation may increase NOx emissions and cause rough running.
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.