hey guys, you were exactly right!!! ordered the part online, had a friend install it. as described, it took a little while to locate and figure out how to reach this part of the motor, but after that got settled it was a relatively easy fix. the dealer and regular mechanics told me it was a egr valve and i also need spark plugs- it would have spent over $1000 chasing them items around and STILL would have had to replace the CPS. Super help- thanks to everyone- the car is now running great!