My EGR/OCC Anecdote

Not a scientific study, but from a review of numerous post on Priuschat, problems do not occur with the EGR system until the mileage reaches 90-100K.

More likely than not, a NEW or completely clean EGR valve and cooler would mean nearly the same service life of a new system...….90-100K of trouble free service -- even more if an oil catch can is used.

The extra time spent in a complete clean would be worth it compared to the bother and labor needed for a future removal, cleaning, and replacement.

 

I used oven cleaner on my 1975 RD350 to decarbonize the engine. I did it every 2-3000 miles and NEVER had a problem.
The exhaust 1500+ degrees? Oven cleaner will not hurt it. It doesn't hurt ovens.
I've thought about putting the cooler inside my oven and putting it on self cleaning and see if it will clean it out.
But I might use it again someday and thinking it might make what I cook smell and taste like exhaust!

 

When I bought my car at 71k miles it had startup death rattle and at least a 70% EGR flow blockage (tested with garden hose). I then cleaned the entire EGR system and added an OCC. YMMV!

Here's to hoping!

Pixel XL ?

 

After replacement at ~50 k miles on round #2 of the replacement, I’m sticking to that interval .

Pair it with the engine coolant loop and you kill 2 birds with one stone.

Keep the coolant fresh too.