Modern diesel engines come with sophisticated and complex systems most of which help in the emission and environmental standard compliance. These include EGR systems. Many drivers want to know this: Will an EGR delete increase my MPG? The answer is: it depends on the car, driving style, and the condition of the engine. This article will explain how EGR works and is deleted and, more importantly, if a fuel economy increase is worth it.
What is the EGR System?
The EGR System works to minimize NoX emissions by sending some exhaust gases back to the engine’s intake and reducing the combustion temperatures.
This is of course good for the environment but brings some problems such as:
- Exhaust gases are dirty and contain a lot of soot.
- Soot will accumulate over time on the intake and the valves.
- This will decrease the amount of air available for combustion and lower engine performance.
To put it simply, in the long run, EGR systems will expand, which may reduce their efficiency.
What Does EGR Delete Mean?
An EGR delete refers to the complete removal of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation system within a diesel engine. This system usually draws some exhaust gases back into the engine and mixes it with air. It is capped so that only clean air is allowed into the engine.
Products like SPEtuner’s EGR delete kit are designed to make this process straightforward and reliable.
What Makes Drivers Want to Do EGR Deletes?
Most diesel engine owners switch to EGR deletes for maintenance and performance. The most notable benefits include:
- Reduced carbon buildup → Cleaner intake and valves.
- Improved reliability → Fewer clogged passages and stuck valves.
- Lower maintenance costs → Less frequent intake cleanings are necessary.
But there is a big question that needs to be answered; does it actually increase miles per gallon (MPG)?
Improving MPG With EGR Deletes
1. Improving Air Quality and Combustion
Since exhaust gases are removed from the engine intake, only pure oxygen is available to the engine cylinders allowing for more complete combustion. This results in improved fuel efficiency.
2. Less Stress on the Engine
An EGR system is designed to let the engine deal with unclean hot gases. Engine combustion will be less stressful and more efficient after an EGR delete. It is known that lower engine stress can increase MPG especially on the highway.
3. Real-World Results
Real-world results are a little more hesitant. Gains in fuel economy are not certain. Some drivers report a MPG increase of 1-2 after removing the EGR system, while others report seeing no difference at all. Factors which affect results include:
- Condition of the engine.
- Driving patterns of the owner.
- Other modifications made to the car such as tuning or exhaust upgrades.
The Role of Tuning After an EGR Delete
In most cases, just removing the EGR system will not provide the expected results. Modern diesel engines have computers that control fuel injection, turbo pressure, and the diesel emissions.
Because of this, the engine will run poorly after the EGR system is removed. Many EGR delete kits include a tune and this is for that reason. Because the EGR is removed, a professional tuner will alter the engine’s computer so that the engine can run smoothly.
Legal and Environmental Considerations
One more thing to think about is that in most areas, EGR deletes are not legal for street use. Governments impose emission standards and tampering with emissions systems can get you a fine.
Vehicle owners should be aware of local laws before making modifications, even if the performance and MPG improvements are appealing.
Other Factors That Affect MPG
An EGR delete still raises many questions on fuel economy. Here are a few of the most significant factors.
- Driving style – Heavy acceleration, rapid driving, and aggressive towing burns a lot more fuel.
- Maintenance – Routine services such as oil changes, and the cleaning or replacement of air filters improves MPG.
- Load and weight – Heavy cargo will always decrease fuel economy, as will towing a trailer.
All of this means that deleting the EGR will not lead to big fuel economy savings snapping fuel. It can help, but only when good maintenance and smart driving are in place.
Pros and Cons of an EGR Delete for MPG
Pros:
- Possible 1 to 2 MPG increase.
- Intake air becomes more combustive and uninterrupted-leading to more complete combustion.
- Reduced maintenance costs, as less carbon will lead to less buildup of maintenance work.
Cons:
- Legalities are still unclear on road usage.
- Fuel economy improvements will not be as great given the fact they are unfixed.
- To fully complete an EGR delete, tuning must be done to the vehicle.
Conclusion: Will an EGR Delete Actually Increase MPG?
An EGR delete improves MPG to an extent, but results depend on the vehicle and driving style. Fuel savings are visible in some, while in others, fuel economy seems to be worse.
Because EGR clearing allows the engine to work with its full capacity while also reducing the exhaust gas, the engine becomes less dirty and can run more efficiently. The most valuable gains come in the savings of repairs needed, as EGR deletes improve the passage of exhaust.
SPEtuner’s EGR delete kits are highly regarded modifications. Drivers should always assess the pros, cons, as well legal ramifications.
The main takeaway? An EGR delete may help improve MPG slightly, but the most significant advantage is the improvement to the engine health and reduction of maintenance.
