** Update 23/1/17 ** We’re getting reports of EGR failures at an alarming rate and its just the tip of the iceburg. Two of our readers have had either a full refund or close to it (90%) following the “fix” and then EGR failure. Proof that not only are they aware of the issue but also that they accept responsibility for the failure. We’re looking to publish as much information as we can to help prevent VAG owners from paying tbe price of the fix which shouldn’t have been needed in the first place. Please do leave a comment or email me direct on Karl (at) hypermiler .co .uk **

** Update 1/2/2017 – We’ve just put together an article regarding the refunds / good will offers our readers have had from VW / VAG – Please read The Volkswagon Group is systematically refunding owners for EGR failures after the emissions “fix” and do let us know how you get on! ** 

The VAG group dropped a mighty clanger with the diesel emissions “defeat device” that cheated both government and motorists alike into thinking their cars were green. VW however don’t like the terms “dieselgate” or “defeat device” and prefer to use EA 189 NOx emissions issue.

In the US their response was to pay off owners and regulators to the tune of $17.5bn. Across the pond here in the UK we weren’t so fortunate. The VAG group –  VW, Seat, Audi and Skoda recalled the affected cars for a a free fix. This “fix” was in the form of a revised engine software update which apparently resolved the issue, bringing emissions levels in line with their false claims.

In the days and weeks following this “fix” saw reports of EGR (Exhaust Gas Return) valves failing at an alarming rate in post fix vehicles. In a letter sent to an “BigAndyG” from AudiUK we reveal why. The letter read:

“In essence, the affected vehicle’s injection phase has been split from a single injection into multiple injections which results in an improved burning process in the engine. The software update also increases the affected vehicles’ Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) rate, which results in lower nitrogen oxides (NOx) production. Improvements in the combustion process ensure that this increase in the EGR rate (which lowers NOx levels) does not have a detrimental impact on particulate levels”

With most of the vehicles affected approaching 5 – 10 years old, we suspect that the increased EGR activity and revised combustion settings are the root cause of the EGR failures in these cars.

Is my car affected?

VW has put together a handy form to help so you can see if your car is effected. Head on over to http://www.volkswagen.co.uk/owners/emissionsinfo and punch in your details. We’re unsure if this also works for other marques in the VAG group such as Audi, Seat and Skoda so please do let us know in the comments.

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What can you do?

If you’ve had the emissions fix and are now experiencing EGR issues we suggest that you speak to the dealer who “fixed” your car. Point out that the fix increases EGR activity and is the reason for the premature failure of the valve / system. Also point out the numerous reports (such as ours) pointing out that this isn’t simply a coincidence that its failed.

We also suggest that you join the claim against VW for the emissions scandal which could see you compensated to the tune of around £3,000. More on how to join the lawsuit against VW here.

If you’re looking for more information on EGR systems for then check out our article on how EGR valves work

Are you affected?

Disgruntled owners are reporting this issue at an increasing rate. Please do get in touch in the comments section below, it might just prevent other motorists from being ripped off by the VAG group’s underhanded practices.

Fill our our survey!

We’re working with the The Volkswagen diesel customer forum (Emissions scandal) Facebook group to collate your experiences with the fix. Please do take the time to fill out our survey so we can access and highlight the criminal damage done by VW to the cars they have “fixed” click for the VW emissions survey

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