1999 Pontiac Grand Am EGR Valve Code

1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM
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FERN1961
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Engine Performance problem
1999 Pontiac Grand Am 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 114K miles

The Service Engine Soon light came on and I had it checked. The code came up that I needed a new oxygen sensor. We replaced that on 02.12.10. Drove it for approx. 45 miles and on 02.14.10 the service light came on again. When checked this code showed an EGR valve problem. After doing some reading on your site it seems like the first option would be to check this for carbon build up and try cleaning it before replacing the valve. Any other suggestions for troubleshooting before going to replacement. And what are other related codes that might come up?
Feb 15, 2010 at 2:56 PM
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MERLIN2021
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First, there are several codes possible for EGR, please post the Pxxxx number for us to better assist you.
Feb 15, 2010 at 3:06 PM
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RASMATAZ
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EGR related DTC's P0400-P0409 not in this bracket its not an EGR problem
Feb 15, 2010 at 3:23 PM
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FERN1961
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I didn't get the exact code from the mechanic but I do trust that he knows that it's an ERG problem and that the code does fall in the range of P0400-P0409. They did a little cleaning of the valve, reset the computer and drove the car for about 10 miles or so. I'm going to drive it and see if/when the light comes back on.

I have been noticing that on occasion when starting the car after I had been driving it for a while (running errands kind of starting-stopping driving) that the car wouldn't start right up some times.
Feb 15, 2010 at 4:31 PM
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RASMATAZ
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If the EGR valve is cracked open the idle will be erratic or stalling out due to a massive vacuum leak withe EGR valve-Sounds like insufficient flow P0401
Feb 15, 2010 at 4:35 PM