Where is the EGR sensor located?

In most modern engines, the EGR sensor is mounted on the EGR valve itself, which attaches to the intake manifold. Some systems use a separate sensor or a pressure sensor along the EGR path. The exact location can vary by vehicle make, model, and year.

Engine designs differ, so you may encounter the sensor embedded in the EGR valve, a separate position or pressure sensor along the EGR pipe, or a vacuum-controlled setup with a solenoid valve nearby. If you’re troubleshooting, start by locating the EGR valve and following its electrical connector and vacuum lines to identify the sensor.

Common locations for the EGR sensor or valve

Here are the typical placements you’ll encounter, depending on the engine design. Look for a small electrical harness or a two-wire connector on or near the valve, or a sensor mounted directly on the EGR pipe or intake plenum.

• EGR valve on the intake manifold side, often between the exhaust manifold and the intake plenum; many vehicles have the position sensor integrated into the valve body.


• EGR valve mounted on the exhaust manifold or in a location accessible from the top or side of the engine; the sensor is usually part of the valve.


• Separate EGR position sensor attached to the EGR valve body (less common on older designs but found on some makes and models).


• EGR pressure sensor located in the EGR pipe or near the intake manifold plenum, providing pressure feedback to the ECU; it may have its own electrical connector.


• Vacuum solenoid and line assembly near the firewall or in the engine bay, which controls vacuum to the EGR valve; this component facilitates operation but is not the sensor itself.

In practice, the EGR position sensor is most often built into the EGR valve. If you’re diagnosing a fault, start by inspecting the valve and its electrical connector, then trace wiring to the ECU and check any nearby vacuum components.

How to locate the EGR sensor on your specific vehicle

Use these practical steps to pinpoint the sensor on your make and model. The process focuses on identifying the EGR valve and then verifying whether the sensor is integrated or separate.

1. Open the hood and locate the EGR valve; it is typically connected to a large metal pipe between the exhaust manifold and the intake manifold.


2. Look for a plastic electrical connector or a two-wire harness on the valve body; if present, that is the EGR position sensor in many designs.


3. If you don’t see a sensor on the valve, trace the wiring from the valve toward the engine bay to find a separate sensor mounted along the EGR pipe or on the plenum.


4. Check for a vacuum solenoid or vacuum lines nearby; some systems use vacuum control in conjunction with the EGR valve.


5. Consult the vehicle’s service manual or a repair database for your exact year/make/model to confirm the precise location.

Following these steps will help you identify the EGR sensor location for most vehicles. When in doubt, reference the owner’s manual or a repair guide specific to your engine family.

Summary

Most EGR sensors are located on the EGR valve itself, mounted in or near the intake manifold. Some engines use a separate EGR pressure or position sensor along the EGR path, and a vacuum solenoid may sit nearby to control the valve. Because layouts vary by vehicle, always check the service information for your specific make, model, and engine code to locate and test the sensor correctly.

How much does it cost to replace an EGR sensor?

The cost to replace an EGR valve sensor ranges from $100 to over $700, depending on the vehicle, labor costs, and parts. A full EGR valve replacement for petrol engines can cost between $400 and $1200, while diesel engines can cost $350-$900. Simpler replacements, like a Ford F-150 position sensor, might only cost around $100-$124 total, with parts costing about $53 and labor around $49-$72. 
This video explains the cost to replace an EGR valve: 57sTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Mar 29, 2025
Factors influencing the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Different vehicles have different EGR systems, and their complexity will affect the price. For example, replacing a sensor on a Ram 1500 Classic can range from $261-$312. 
• Type of sensor: The cost of the part itself can vary. A simple position sensor might be less expensive than a more complex pressure sensor. 
• Labor costs: Labor rates depend on the shop and your location. More complex jobs will take longer and thus cost more in labor. 
• Engine type: Diesel engines often have more expensive EGR systems than petrol engines, leading to higher replacement costs. 
• Related repairs: Sometimes, other components like vacuum hoses may need to be inspected or replaced at the same time, adding to the final cost. 

How to get a more accurate estimate

• Check with a local mechanic: Contact a local mechanic or use online estimators from sites like RepairPal or YourMechanic to get a price specific to your vehicle and location. 
• Know your vehicle's make and model: Have your vehicle's year, make, and model ready to provide to the mechanic for a more precise quote. 
• Be prepared for potential additional costs: Ask about the total cost, including taxes, fees, and any other related parts or services that might be necessary. 

What happens when the EGR sensor goes bad?

Symptoms of a bad EGR sensor include a lit check engine light, a rough or erratic idle, and engine performance issues like poor acceleration, reduced power, and decreased fuel economy. You may also notice engine knocking or pinging sounds, an inability to pass an emissions test, or a strong fuel smell. 
Performance and engine behavior

• Rough or uneven idle: The engine may shake or vibrate when idling because a stuck-open EGR valve allows too much exhaust gas into the intake. 
• Stalling: The engine may stall, especially when coming to a stop, due to the improper air-fuel mixture. 
• Poor acceleration: The vehicle may feel sluggish and slow to accelerate. 
• Reduced power: You may notice a general lack of power during normal driving. 
• Engine knocking or pinging: If the EGR valve is stuck closed, combustion temperatures can rise, causing the engine to make a knocking or pinging sound, especially under load. 
• Increased fuel consumption: The engine's performance may be less efficient, leading to lower mileage. 

Other indicators

• Check Engine Light: This is a very common symptom, as the engine control module (ECM) detects a problem with the EGR system. 
• Emissions test failure: The vehicle's emissions will likely be too high, leading to it failing an emissions test. 
• Fuel smell: A strong smell of fuel may be noticeable. 

Where are EGR sensors located?

The location of an EGR sensor varies depending on the type, but they are generally found near the EGR valve itself in the engine bay. EGR valve position sensors are often mounted directly on top of the EGR valve, while EGR pressure sensors are typically located close to the valve with hoses connecting them to the exhaust gas passageway. EGR temperature sensors can be found near the exhaust manifold and close to the EGR valve, according to YourMechanic.com.
 
This video shows the location of an EGR sensor on a Ford Explorer: 1mTRQYouTube · Aug 10, 2022
EGR position sensor

• This sensor is often integrated into the EGR valve and is located on top of the valve itself. 

This video shows the location of an EGR sensor on a Ford F-150: 1mTRQYouTube · Oct 12, 2022
EGR pressure sensor

• Location: Typically found near the EGR valve, on the passenger side of the engine in some models. 
• Connection: It will have an electrical connector and one or two rubber hoses that connect to the EGR passageway or the EGR valve. 

EGR temperature sensor

• Location: Generally has one sensor on the exhaust manifold and another located near the EGR valve.
• Purpose: Monitors the temperature of the exhaust gas, especially in modern diesel engines that use an EGR cooler. 

How to replace an EGR sensor?

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing an EGR Valve

1. Remove the Old EGR Valve.
2. Remove the Old Gasket.
3. Clean the Intake Manifold and Surrounding Area.
4. Install the New Gasket.
5. Securely Attach the New EGR Valve.
6. Reconnect the Negative Battery Cable.
7. Clear Error Codes and Reset the Vehicle's Computer.
8. Test and Verify Proper Operation.