EGR light flashing + Limp mode engaged!

A4 B8.5 TDI

Driving along in cruise control the other day (probably about 75 MPH) and the car slides into limp mode, EGR lights starts flashing and I can#t go over 2000 or so RPM.

Manage to get off on the next exit fine and luckily I was with my brother who had his VCDS laptop and cable on him so we hook it up for a quick diagnostic check and get the error in the image attached.
Started up again and drove conservatively on the way home - never happened again but afraid it could happen again on another long trip or cause damage if not looked at.

Thinking firstly to just check all cables/wires on/around the EGR and then removing it and giving it a good clean - not sure anyone can recommend anything else?

Also does anyone have a guide on removing/cleaning the EGR on a B8.5 before I give it a go on my own?

Thanks!

mpc said:

Can someone give me some instructions on how to remove the sensor or at least that grey surround the sensor is mounted on? I've tried in vain to feel round the back and release it but cannot fathom how its held in place.

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AudiLeon said:

I've recently cleaned ours on our 2011 TDIE and the EGR is bolted to the rear of the engine block above the turbo. But I have seen some that are attached to the start of the inlet. Which looks easier to deal with.

The one at the back is a bit of the fiddle and needs a mirror or something to see the bolts under the unit. I used my phone to photo and map out where I was working. Take off the flexi's between the exhaust and the unit. Makes life easier. I took mine full to bits. Soaked the cooler in Gunk and the EGR it's self in Mr Muscle. Came up beautifully. Still not 100% happy all the holes are cleaned from the cooler though. I think I'll do that again some day with petrol over night.

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Was watching that videos earlier but my french isn't the best . I guess I can use it for reference with what you've mentioned also - Thanks matey.

QQ, did you simply remove and clean the EGR or did you need to replace anything before putting it back on? Read a few places that gaskets need replacing or seals?