1st post here. Recently purchased a 1996 2.5 TL. Car is in great shape for having 228,000 miles. Engine was replaced about 40,000 miles ago.
Took it in for smog testing, said the O2 sensors weren't ready. Went ahead with the test, failed on the NO levels. This is caused by a lean condition and the EGR not working correctly.
Pulled the EGR and it has minimal buildup. The tube doesn't have any noticeable buildup without pulling the intake to see what is happening at the block.
I can't find any info on cleaning the 2.5 EGR system. All the threads I see are for the 3.2.
Should I replace both O2 sensors and clean the EGR and try again?
Thanks for any input.

 

The EGR valve is very clean. I just checked the mechanism and it slides smoothly with no buildup at all.
I guess I will order both O2 sensors and see if that resolves the issue.

 

I would do the same.

I do recommend DENSO as they are what are put on at the factory. I got mine off AMAZON. AMAZON is a bit cheaper and has free shipping, but Rockauto also has them.

Front was fairly easy, if a bit awkward to replace (took out battery, and shield). Rear had to drop the front pipe if I recall correctly.

Amazon:



DENSO Part # 2344726 {#36531P1RA01, 36531P1RA02} OE Style One of our most popular parts
Upstream; DENSO is the O.E. Manufacturer / Oxygen Sensor
Part Image
$60.79

DENSO Part # 2344097 {Click Info Link for Alternate/OEM Part Numbers} OE Style One of our most popular parts
Downstream; DENSO is the O.E. Manufacturer / Oxygen Sensor
Part Image
$79.79

 

Thanks adventurecrv. I ordered them from RockAuto. $145 shipped. Got the Denso's. Front one was easy, the rear was a little tougher. I did have to drop the front pipe, which was kind of a pain and dirty, lol.
The EGR is working, it does have vacuum and operates when you rev the engine.
The code reader did say the O2 sensors weren't ready when I had it tested, so time to do the drive cycle and see if it's fixed. It is a very clean car and I think it was a bargain for $800. Time will tell

 

on the intake manifold, there is that metal piece with bolts. open that up and clean it. that lead to the egr valve. but most like ur cat is going. i just barely past smog this year..

 

How many cats are on this car? One in the headpipe? One downstream?

 

I talked with my mechanic and he says the cats are good, they are passing the tests. Right now I am just waiting on the O2 sensors to be ready. All the other systems are good. Just need to drive it and either get a system code or reset the computer if it doesn't clear.

 

FYI: If you bought the car in Calif. the seller is require by law to supply a smog certificate dated within 30 days of sale date.

 

No luck with the new O2 sensors. Still failed NOX. 1979 at 15 mph (max 430) and 1446 at 25 mph (max 717)
Did the lamba efficiency calculation and says the cats are at 79%. Hate to replace them. Especially the front one, very expensive.
Back to the drawing board....

 

Ok, so I am learning and not paying attention. I looked at the EGR valve, but not that plate on top of the intake. Of course it was completely gummed up. At least I know the O2 sensors helped. Should pass easily now. Thanks for the feedback. Asking questions on here helps me work thru it.

 

take pix and join the facebook page

 

Cleaned the port, passed smog easily. NO went from 2600 down to 38. She's all legal now....