Accepted Answer

You are correct about the solenoid, more often than not this code is set because the solenoid has failed internally, creating an open circuit. On occasion you can get sticking EGR valves that will result in this code, but the majority of the time it is the solenoid.

If you want to test it yourself, remove the solenoid and measure resistance across the two terminals, you should have 29-35 ohms. In all likelyhood, you will have infinite resistance, which would indicate a blown open circuit inside the solenoid.

The part comes with the modulator right next to it as a unit with the brass bracket it mounts on. It is easily replaced yourself, you only need to remove the electrical connector, vacuum hoses, and three 10mm bolts holding it to the manifold.

Normal cost to have this part replaced is 1/2 hour labor (typically $50 or so), simply because most shops have a half hour minimum labor charge,plus the cost of the part. In this case diagnosis labor would include part replacement because it is so simple.
You should be looking at about $160 or so to replace the part were you to take it to a dealership.

The valve, should you wish to replace it is held on by two 12 mm bolts and while a little more difficult to get to than the solenoid, is still not out of the realm of a do it yourselfer. II do not forsee this being a needed repair though, based on the only code you provided.

Regarding the 50-100$ diagnosis, while it varies by shop between the two prices, this is a perfectly acceptable charge for diag. It is asking for trouble to just give a customer an estimate on a repair without knowing for certain what the problem is. Even if you come in with a code for the check engine light, the shop you brought it to does not know where that number came from and if it is factual. Furthermore, the diagnostic equipment used by a professional is capable of telling you much more than just a number; perhaps you have a code XXX but using a complete scantool you can see that there are multiple other issues that occurred right before the code was set, that can indicate a completely different problem than simply naming the code and saying it needs XXX part.

There is a whole lot going on under the hood, and a simple code scanner while very helpful in most situations, can not always be substituted for thorough system analysis by a trained professional; there are many times a quick code scan does not lead to an open and shut case.

All that being said, the code you have is as I said before almost always just the solenoid, and is a open and shut case :)

Expert:	Doug C
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	11/2/2009

ASE Certified Technician

16 years automotive and OTR repair including specialized training from Toyota and Mitsubishi