I've concluded that my high NOx reading (which caused me to fail my e-test) is a result of a poorly functioning EGR, or Cat. The Cat is new, a Magnaflow Hi-Flow unit, which I've heard many people use, with no issues, so I'm leaning towards cleaning out the EGR, and replacing it if needed.

I checked the Haynes manual, and the EGR is at the back of the intake manifold. How do you guys get this thing out? Take off the intake? Or just get your hands back there, fish around, and hope for the best unbolting stuff blindly?

 

it's easy to take off, should take no more than 5min.

 

The EGR is held on by studs. Use (IIRC) an 11mm open end wrench to loosen the nuts.
I have read where people have had problems passing emissions with high flow catalytic converters.

 

I like to use a ratcheting wrench. Just make sure the engine is cool and lean over the front of the car, pretty much laying on the engine. Not that hard IMO. Don't bother cleaning it. I did that and it didn't help much, so I just broke down and bought a new one.

 

its two 13 or 14mm nuts and a vacuum line. clean it with carb cleaner or replace it. grab a gasket while you are at it and make sure yours comes clean off of the intake.

 

13mm nuts and make sure the valve is working. When you get it off, push the diaphram in and place your finger over the vacuum port. The diaphram should stay pushed in until you pull your finger off the port. If it doesn't, the diaphram is leaking preventing the valve from opening properly during normal operation.

 

Right on, thanks guys.