1997 RAV4 - P0401 code

[al77382]

The check engine light was on in my 1997 RAV4 so I took it to AutoZone to have the code read & they said the EGR valve was bad. I later found out that a neighbor had a code reader so we hooked his up & the error code was P0401 which as far as I have found means "insufficient EGR flow".

Seems this is not necessarily the knee-jerk "bad EGR valve" that AutoZone said. Seems it could just be clogged lines or deposits somewhere.

What is the best/most economical methodology to try to fix this? What should I check first that is free (just the time & work) before replacing parts that may not be bad?

Also, we cleared the code so how far do I need to drive it before attempting emissions as-is? Or is there no hope to pass?

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.
Al

[al77382]

Thanks guys.

[ray_gallup]

I have had the same problem with my 97 rav have replaced the egr,vacuum modulator and still have the light on now I have to replace the egr vsv I had a mechanic check it out and could have had him do the work for $600 but I got the egr and vac mod from discount toyota parts.com for about $250 and need to get the vsv from local dealer for $100 save $250