A big growth area in the automotive aftermarket in Ireland at present is EGR Valves. Now entering a more mature phases in the product development process, replacement EGR valves are now in big demand, but it remains an area where the technician can often perceive his choice to be limited.

The DRI brand, from Borg Automotive, which is distributed in Ireland by Serfac, is rapidly changing this perception. It offers a high quality remanufactured alternative to new dealer parts and as Sales Manager Simon Jensen explains, these parts offer many advantages. He comments, "DRI EGR Valves do of course compare very favourably on price with equivalent parts from the dealer, but because of the unique remanufacturing process they will also often perform better and last longer.”

Simon explains, that the remanufacturing process which takes place at the Borg Automotive facility in Belgium, gives a unique opportunity to inspect and map common and often experienced faults and imperfections in the OE-design and construction of the valves. By investigating and solving issues experienced in OE products, BORG Automotive can provide a longer life span for remanufactured EGR valves, compared to OE counterparts. For example BORG identified that the teeth on OE EGR valves are often worn out too soon, so it has developed teeth made from stronger material that can withstand abrasion much longer.

The DRI range was introduced in 2013 to meet growing demand and experienced rapid growth with sales doubling in 2015 and already 50% up in 2016. In line with this the range has been consistently expanded and now includes 200 unique references giving a current car parc coverage of some 65%. Simon comments, "Like the many other ranges in the Borg Automotive portfolio our aim is to offer coverage for 95% plus of the vehicle parc. This means we are adding new products of a regular basis.”

The new product introduction are very much aimed at meeting market demand, with the DRI brand becoming expert at addressing issues commonly faced by garages. A prime example of this is in a replacement EGR for certain VAG models. The VW Golf VI, Audi A3, Seat Leon and Skoda Octavia all feature a valve that is prone to premature failure. It is a more complex valve that features water cooling and not only is there limited aftermarket availability from other suppliers, but dealers can often not get replacements to meet demand. DRI offers a solution in the form of its 717730099 replacement valve and this is proving to be hugely in demand from garages in Ireland.

Simon concludes, "EGR is very much a growth area in the aftermarket and our DRI brand is meeting this demand with superior quality products that also offer great value. Our range is also constantly developing so that we can offer solutions on as many model variations as possible.”

DRI EGR Valves are available from motor factors nationwide and are distributed in Ireland by Serfac.  For more information call 01-459-8700.