Abstract: Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) coolers are widely used to reduce engine nitrogen ox­ides (NO_x) emissions, but it is easy to foul in use, which affects its heat transfer and weakens its emission reduction effect. Hydrocarbon conden­sation has an important influence on fouling and heat transfer performance of EGR cooler. In this paper, the effects of temperature, hydrocarbon concentration and hydrocarbon composition on foul­ing characteristics and heat transfer performance of EGR cooler are reviewed from three factors affecting hydrocarbon condensation. The shortcomings of the existing research are analyzed, and the future research direction is put forward.