Can drive — fix at your convenience.
This code means the engine is detecting less exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) flow than it should, often because the EGR valve is stuck closed or the passages are clogged with carbon. Common fixes include cleaning carbon from the EGR valve and passages, or replacing a faulty EGR valve. It's an emissions-related code and is usually a straightforward repair.
$150 – $500
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Yes, you can usually drive normally for a while since this is an emissions issue. You may notice light pinging under load or a slightly rough idle. Have it repaired within a week or two to protect fuel economy and pass emissions testing.
Repairs typically run $150 to $500. Cleaning the EGR valve and passages is the cheaper option, while a full EGR valve replacement with labor reaches the higher end.
It's a low-severity, emissions-related code, so it's not an immediate danger. However, the light pinging can stress the engine and it will fail a smog check, so it's worth fixing soon.
Most often the EGR valve is stuck closed or the passages are clogged with carbon, so not enough exhaust reaches the intake. A faulty valve, a blocked EGR tube, or a bad flow sensor can also trigger it.