exhaust
EGR Tube
for 2021 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 · FWD
Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.5 h
Tools
12
Steps
12
✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the EGR tube on the 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including disconnection from the exhaust manifold and EGR valve.
Warnings
⚠️Allow engine and exhaust components to cool completely before beginning work. Exhaust manifold and EGR tube can remain hot enough to cause severe burns for over an hour after engine shutdown.
⚠EGR tube bolts are often corroded and may break during removal. Apply penetrating oil and allow to soak if fasteners show signs of corrosion.
⚠Do not pry on the EGR tube excessively as the mounting flanges can crack. If tube is seized, apply heat carefully to break carbon deposits loose.
ℹ️This procedure requires working in a confined space above the exhaust manifold. A lift or high-quality jack stands are strongly recommended for access.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
12mm socket and ratchetEssential
14mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension set (6-inch and 12-inch)Essential
Universal joint adapterEssential
Torque wrench (10-50 Nm range)Essential
Pick set or gasket scraperEssential
Anti-seize compoundEssential
Wire brushEssential
Safety gloves (heat-resistant)Essential
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Parts
- EGR tube assembly × 1 — Toyota OEM 25620-36020 or equivalent
- EGR tube gasket (exhaust manifold side) × 1 — Use OEM specification
- EGR tube gasket (valve side) × 1 — Use OEM specification
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Preparation
- Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
- Raise and secure vehicle on jack stands or lift for improved access from below
- Remove engine cover by pulling upward on four retaining clips
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
- Spray all EGR tube fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes
Procedure
- 1Remove engine cover components for accessRemove the plastic engine cover by pulling upward firmly on the four mounting points. If present, remove any additional covers or shields blocking access to the EGR system on the driver's side of the engine. Remove air intake tube if it obstructs access to the EGR valve area.
- 2Disconnect electrical connector from EGR valveLocate the EGR valve on the intake manifold side (driver's side of engine). Press the locking tab and disconnect the electrical connector from the EGR valve. Move the wiring harness aside to prevent damage during tube removal.⚠Do not pull on wires; grasp the connector body firmly when disconnecting.
- 3Remove EGR tube mounting bolts at valveUsing a 12mm socket with extension and universal joint, remove the two bolts securing the EGR tube flange to the EGR valve. Access is tight; work slowly to avoid rounding fasteners. Note the position of any brackets or clips attached to these bolts.Torque specExhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- 4Remove heat shield if equippedIf a heat shield is present over the EGR tube or exhaust manifold connection point, remove the retaining bolts using a 10mm socket. Set the heat shield aside for reinstallation.Torque specHeat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
- 5Disconnect EGR tube from exhaust manifoldWorking from below the vehicle provides better access. Locate the two bolts securing the EGR tube to the exhaust manifold. Use a 14mm socket with a long extension to remove these bolts. The lower bolt may require a universal joint for clearance around the exhaust manifold.⚠These bolts are subjected to extreme heat cycles and may be corroded. If bolts begin to round, stop and apply additional penetrating oil or heat.Torque specExhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- 6Remove EGR tube assemblyWith both ends disconnected, carefully maneuver the EGR tube out of the engine bay. The tube routes through a tight space between the exhaust manifold and intake manifold. Twist gently while pulling to break any carbon seal, but avoid excessive force that could damage mounting points.
- 7Clean all mating surfacesUsing a gasket scraper and wire brush, thoroughly clean the EGR valve mounting flange and exhaust manifold flange. Remove all carbon deposits and old gasket material. The surfaces must be completely clean and flat for proper sealing. Inspect both flanges for cracks or damage.⚠Do not use power tools that could gouge the aluminum EGR valve mounting surface. Hand clean only.
- 8Inspect and prepare new EGR tubeCompare the new EGR tube to the old unit to confirm correct routing and mounting points. Install new gaskets on both ends of the tube. Apply a thin coating of anti-seize compound to all bolt threads (not gasket surfaces).
- 9Install EGR tube to exhaust manifoldPosition the new EGR tube with gasket to the exhaust manifold flange. Start both bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Tighten bolts in an alternating pattern to specified torque using a torque wrench.Torque specExhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- 10Connect EGR tube to EGR valveGuide the upper end of the EGR tube to the EGR valve mounting flange with gasket in place. Install both mounting bolts with anti-seize on threads. Hand-tighten first, then torque in an alternating pattern to specification. Reinstall any brackets or clips that attach to these bolts.Torque specExhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
- 11Reinstall heat shield and accessoriesIf removed, reinstall the heat shield over the EGR tube exhaust connection. Torque heat shield bolts to specification. Reinstall air intake tube if it was removed for access.Torque specHeat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
- 12Reconnect electrical and finalize installationReconnect the electrical connector to the EGR valve, ensuring it clicks firmly into place. Reinstall the engine cover by pressing down on all four mounting points until clips engage. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connectors are firmly seated and locked
- Verify all heat shields and covers are reinstalled
- Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine bay
- Confirm engine cover is properly seated on all mounting points
Verification
- Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes while listening for exhaust leaks at both EGR tube connections
- Check for any unusual sounds or vibrations from the EGR system
- With engine running, carefully feel around (not touching hot components) both EGR tube connections for exhaust gas escaping
- Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no EGR-related diagnostic codes are present
- Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal operation with no check engine light
- After test drive, perform a final visual inspection of all connections for signs of leakage or soot deposits
Related trouble codes on this vehicle
Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.
P0400Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) FlowP0401EGR Flow Insufficient DetectedP1409EGR Valve Position Sensor Circuit MalfunctionP1410EGR Valve Position Sensor CircuitP1411EGR Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/PerformanceP1436EGR Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit MalfunctionP1661EGR Circuit Malfunction
Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →