The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system sends a measured amount of cooled exhaust back into the engine. That lowers peak combustion temperatures and reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx), one of the main pollutants diesel emissions systems are built to control. The EGR cooler does the cooling, and it only works well when it's clean.
It Keeps NOx Emissions in Check
Cooled exhaust takes up space in the cylinder and absorbs heat, so combustion runs cooler and makes less NOx. When soot coats the inside of the cooler, the exhaust comes back hotter and flow drops. The engine produces more NOx, and the aftertreatment system has to work harder to stay within emissions limits.
It Protects Performance and Fuel Mileage
A plugged cooler throws off the air-fuel balance the engine is tuned for. That can mean slower throttle response, more turbo lag and lower fuel mileage. Restoring flow through the cooler helps the engine run the way it was designed to. See signs your EGR cooler needs cleaning.
It Takes Load Off Your DPF
When the EGR system isn't working right, combustion makes more soot. That soot ends up in the DPF, which then needs more regens and earlier cleanings. Keeping the EGR cooler clean helps your DPF go longer between cleanings.
It Reduces Heat Stress
A coated cooler can't pull enough heat from the exhaust. Higher EGR temperatures put more stress on the cooler, the EGR valve and nearby parts. Keeping the cooler clean helps it run at the temperatures it was designed for.
It Helps You Catch Problems Early
Pulling the cooler for cleaning is also a chance to look for trouble, like heavy oil residue or signs of a coolant leak, before it causes bigger damage. Cleaning can't repair a cooler that leaks coolant. If yours is losing coolant, have it pressure-tested and repaired or replaced.
Our EGR Cooler Cleaning Service
Diesel DPF Cleaning cleans EGR coolers for $300, with 48-hour turnaround. We also clean DPFs for $300 (24-hour turnaround) and DOCs for $80 when they're cleaned with a DPF.
- Drop off and pick up at our cleaning plant at 215 Ullery St, Unit 2, South Bend, IN 46637, and save $25 per item.
- Ship it in: call first and we'll help you get it here.
- Free pickup and delivery is available for DPF cleaning within 90 miles. See our pickup area and drop-off guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should an EGR cooler be cleaned?
Follow your engine manufacturer's guidance, and clean it when you see symptoms like EGR codes, lost power or high EGR temperatures. Many fleets have the EGR cooler checked when the DPF comes off for cleaning.
Will cleaning fix a leaking EGR cooler?
No. Cleaning removes soot and carbon. A cooler that leaks coolant needs repair or replacement.
Do you clean EGR coolers for pickups and semis?
Yes. Call with your engine make and model and the cooler part number.
Schedule Your EGR Cooler Cleaning
Call 574-213-8691 or email dieseldpfcleaning@gmail.com, Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern.