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1998 Pontiac Sunfire with EGR Valve recently replaced.

I just installed an EGR sensor in my Pontiac because my check engine light was on. After doing so my check engine light went off. The smog mechanic told me that the emission computer in my car was set back to default or reset. The smog technician told me I needed to drive my car so the computer gets used to the new sensor. How long should I wait and is this true what the mechanic said?
Answer:

Yes, your smog check mechanic is right. You do need to drive your Pontiac for at least 2 weeks (normal everyday driving) for the emissions computer "readiness flag" to set. What happened during the EGR valve or EGR system problem is the readiness flag belonging to the EGR system was not set because of the defective EGR sensor. Readiness flags are internal self tests the emissions computer runs to ensure all emissions systems are functioning. It's basically a self-test system. Now that the EGR sensor is replaced and the emissions system is running properly, with the check engine light turned off, the EGR self test will proceed and the proper readiness flag be set "on". Normally two weeks of driving will fix this problem. posted by SmogTips Support

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