If your car has been acting up and you think the problem may be with the EGR system, there are a few things you can check yourself before taking it to a mechanic. This may save you some money on diagnostic fees and repairs.
The first thing to do is make sure the EGR valve is clean. If it's dirty, it may not be opening or closing properly, which can cause all sorts of problems. To clean it, just remove it and soak it in carburetor cleaner or brake cleaner for a few hours. Be sure to blow out any dirt or debris before putting it back on.
Next, check all of the vacuum hoses going to and from the EGR system. These can easily become disconnected or cracked, which will prevent the system from working correctly. If any of them are damaged, replace them with new ones.
Finally, check all of the electrical connections going to the EGR system. These can also become loose over time and cause problems. Make sure they're all tight and secure before moving on.