P046E Exhaust Gas Recirculation B Sensor Circuit Range

The fault code P046E is a generic OBD (on-board diagnostic) trouble code that indicates a problem in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve “B” circuit. The purpose of the EGR valve is to reduce emissions of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), which are responsible for air pollution. It works by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gas back into the intake manifold to lower the combustion temperature in the engine.

Explanation of Code P046E

The Engine Control Module (PCM or ECM) detects an anomaly in the electrical signal associated with the EGR valve, such as an abnormally low, high, or non-existent voltage. This prevents the valve from functioning correctly, which can lead to poor regulation of exhaust gases in the engine.

Associated Symptoms

The symptoms of a P046E code vary depending on the nature of the problem but may include:

Check Engine Light illuminated with code P046E.
Unstable idling or engine stalling if the EGR valve pintle is stuck.
Engine knocking or pinging under load or at high engine speeds.
Decreased engine performance.
No visible symptoms in some cases if the problem is minor or intermittent.

Possible Causes of Code P046E

Faulty EGR sensor (specifically the “B” sensor).
Problem in the sensor wiring harness (e.g., a short circuit or damaged wire).
Stuck EGR pintle due to carbon buildup, preventing it from opening.
Lack of vacuum at the EGR solenoid.
Faulty EGR solenoid.
Faulty EGR position sensor.
Problem with the EGR differential pressure sensor.

Repair Procedures

Check the EGR sensor connector:
- Inspect the terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Clean and reinstall the connector properly if necessary.
EGR valve inspection:
- Remove the electrical connector and the EGR valve. Check for carbon buildup in the intake or exhaust. If necessary, clean it to ensure proper operation.
Vacuum hose inspection:
- Check the EGR solenoid vacuum hoses for any defects and replace them if necessary.
Checking sensors and pressure hoses:
- If your vehicle is a Ford, follow the pressure hoses to the DPFE sensor (Differential Pressure Feedback EGR sensor) and check if it is clogged with carbon. Clean the hoses and the sensor.
Specific maintenance manual:
- If basic tests do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consult the vehicle’s specific service manual to test the wiring circuits and perform advanced diagnostics.
- As a last resort, it is recommended to go to a service center with the appropriate equipment for more in-depth diagnostics.

Conclusion

The P046E code indicates a problem with the EGR system, which is crucial for reducing the engine’s pollutant emissions. If this problem is not corrected promptly, it can affect engine performance and increase pollution emissions. It is important to follow the diagnostic and repair steps to avoid more serious long-term issues.

Stellantis Commits $13 Billion to US Manufacturing Expansion

Major Automotive Investment in American Operations

Stellantis has unveiled a transformative $13 billion investment strategy dedicated to strengthening its manufacturing footprint across the United States. This substantial financial commitment, to be implemented over the next four years, marks one of the largest industrial investments in recent automotive history and signals the company’s deep confidence in the American market’s growth potential.

Strategic Expansion Goals

The investment program targets a significant 50% increase in production capacity across Stellantis’ US facilities. This expansion will focus on modernizing existing plants, implementing advanced manufacturing technologies, and enhancing supply chain capabilities. The initiative represents a strategic response to growing consumer demand and evolving market requirements for both conventional and electric vehicles.

Economic and Employment Impact

This massive capital infusion is expected to generate substantial economic benefits throughout the regions where Stellantis operates. The modernization and expansion of manufacturing facilities will support thousands of direct and indirect jobs while boosting local economies. The investment demonstrates how global automotive manufacturers are repositioning their operations to better serve North American consumers and strengthen their competitive position in the marketplace.

Future Manufacturing Vision

Stellantis’ investment aligns with broader industry trends toward electrification and digital transformation in automotive manufacturing. The funding will support the development of next-generation vehicle platforms and manufacturing processes that incorporate sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology. This strategic move positions Stellantis to better compete in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape while meeting increasingly stringent environmental standards.

P046F Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor B Circuit Intermittent

What does it mean?

This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC), meaning it applies to all makes/models from 1996 onward. However, specific troubleshooting steps vary by vehicle.

The onboard diagnostic (OBD) trouble code P046F is a generic code related to an intermittent or erratic issue in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve electrical circuit “B”.

The purpose of the EGR valve is to introduce a regulated amount of exhaust gas into the intake manifold. The goal is to keep cylinder head temperatures below 2500°F. Oxygen nitrates (Nox) form when temperatures exceed 2500°F. Nox is responsible for smog and air pollution.

The control computer, either the powertrain control module (PCM) or electronic control module (ECM), has detected an abnormally low, high, or non-existent signal voltage. Refer to a manufacturer-specific repair guide to determine which sensor is the “B” sensor for your exact vehicle.
EGR Operating Principles

The P046F trouble code refers to the same issue across all vehicles; however, there are many types of EGR systems, sensors, and activation methods. The only commonality is that they all vent exhaust gases into the intake manifold to cool cylinder head temperatures.

Introducing spent exhaust gases into the engine at the wrong time reduces power and causes rough idling or stalling. With this in mind, the computer programming only opens the EGR when engine RPM is above 2000 and closes it under load.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the EGR pintle position at the time of failure.

The service engine soon light will illuminate, and the OBD code P046F will be set. Additionally, a second code related to EGR sensor failure may be set. Code P044C relates to low sensor voltage, and P044D relates to a high voltage situation.
If the EGR pintle is stuck partially open, the vehicle may not idle well or may stall.
Knocking sounds may be heard under load or at high RPM.
No symptoms at all.

Potential Causes

Faulty EGR “B” sensor
Defect in the sensor wiring harness
EGR pintle stuck in the closed position, with carbon buildup preventing it from opening
Lack of vacuum at the EGR solenoid
Faulty EGR solenoid
Faulty EGR position sensor
Faulty EGR differential pressure feedback sensor.

Repair Procedures

All EGR valves have one thing in common: they recirculate exhaust from the exhaust system to the intake manifold. Beyond that, they differ in their methods of regulating the pintle opening and detecting its position.

The following repair procedures address the most common issues responsible for the majority of EGR system failures. Wiring harness or sensor failures require a service manual to determine proper wire identification and diagnostic procedures.

Keep in mind that wiring differs between manufacturers, and computers do not respond well if the wrong wire is probed. If you probe the wrong wire and send excessive voltage through the computer’s sensor input terminal, the computer may be damaged.

Similarly, if the wrong connector is unplugged, the computer could lose its programming, requiring the vehicle to be taken to a dealer to have the computer reprogrammed.

Since code P046F indicates a malfunction in circuit “B”, check the EGR sensor connector for corrosion, bent or pushed terminals, or a loose connection. Clean any corrosion and reinstall the connector.
Remove the electrical connector and the EGR valve. Check for carbon buildup in the EGR’s intake and exhaust passages. Clean any carbon deposits as needed so the pintle moves up and down smoothly.
Check the vacuum line from the EGR to the solenoid and replace it if defects are found.
Check the solenoid’s electrical connector for corrosion or defects.
If the vehicle is a Ford, trace the two vacuum hoses from the EGR to the differential pressure feedback EGR (DPFE) sensor at the rear of the manifold.
Check both pressure hoses for corrosion. Experience shows these hoses can become clogged with exhaust carbon. Use a small pocket screwdriver or equivalent to clean the hoses of corrosion, and the sensor should resume functioning.

If the most common tests do not resolve the issue, a service manual is needed to continue testing the wiring circuits. The best solution is to take the vehicle to a service center with the appropriate diagnostic equipment. They can quickly identify and repair this type of problem.

P0470 Exhaust Pressure Sensor Malfunction

🚨 Code P0470: Exhaust Pressure Sensor Problem

🔧 Definition
This generic code relates to the exhaust pressure sensor (circuit “A”) and mainly applies to vehicles equipped with variable nozzle turbochargers (gasoline or diesel). Affected models:

🚚 Ford 6.0L Diesel (2005+), EcoBoost.
🚛 Cummins 6.7L (2007+), 3.0L (Nissan 2015+).
🚗 Mercedes 3.0L (2007+).

The PCM detects an inconsistency between the measured exhaust pressure and the intake/ambient pressure at startup. Possible issue: electrical failure (circuit) or mechanical (blockage, leak).

⚠️ Related Codes

Code	Description
🔧 P0471	Sensor circuit range/performance abnormal.
🔌 P0472	Sensor circuit too low.
🔋 P0473	Sensor circuit too high.
🌀 P0474	Intermittent signal.

🚨 Symptoms

📛 Check engine light on.
💨 Loss of power.
🔥 Particulate filter regeneration impossible (soot buildup).
🚫 Unable to start (if severe blockage).

🔍 Possible Causes

🚮 Blockage in the sensor tube (carbon, debris).
🕳️ Air leak (EGR system, turbocharging, manifold).
📡 Faulty pressure sensor.
🤖 PCM failure (rare).

🛠️ Diagnostic Procedures

🔎 Check technical service bulletins (TSB)

Consult manufacturer PCM software updates.

🧹 Clean the sensor tube

Disconnect the tube from the manifold.
Blow air or use a wire to clear obstructions.

🔌 Inspect wiring and connectors

Look for exposed, burnt, or corroded wires.
Clean terminals with 90% alcohol and a soft brush.
Apply dielectric grease to protect contacts.

🔧 Test the sensor (3 wires)

Power wire (5V): Check with a multimeter (DVOM).
Signal wire (5V): Measure voltage at rest.
Ground: Test with a test light (12V).

🔄 Check for air leaks

Inspect turbocharger hoses and tighten clamps.

📉 Reset the PCM

Clear the code. If it returns, replace the sensor.

⚡ Solutions

Step	Action
1️⃣ Cleaning	Unblock the tube and clean connectors.
2️⃣ Replacement	If the sensor is faulty, install a new one.
3️⃣ Repair	Repair damaged wires or replace the harness.
4️⃣ PCM	As a last resort, consult a pro to test the computer.

💡 Pro Tip

A forced regeneration may be needed after repair to clean the particulate filter.
Use a high-end scanner (e.g., Snap-On, Autel) to access real-time sensor data.

🚫 Risks of Ignoring the Code

Damage to the particulate filter or catalyst.
Engine overheating due to incorrect air-fuel mixture.
High repair costs if the problem worsens.

🔋 Key Takeaway
The exhaust pressure sensor is crucial for optimizing turbocharger performance and reducing emissions. Act quickly to avoid costly breakdowns! 🛠️🔧

Ford Auctions 2006 GT Heritage from Vault

Historic Ford GT Heritage Edition Hits Auction Block

In an unprecedented move, Ford Motor Company is parting with a prized piece from its heritage collection. The automaker will auction a 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition, marking the first time the company has dispersed assets from its historically preserved vehicle vault. This exceptional offering features the iconic Gulf Oil racing livery, making it one of the most sought-after modern classics in automotive history.

Preserving Legacy Through Strategic Sales

Ford’s decision to auction this limited-production supercar represents a strategic shift in how automotive manufacturers manage their heritage collections. Rather than simply maintaining vehicles in storage, Ford is leveraging valuable assets to fund the preservation and acquisition of other historically significant models. The 2006 GT Heritage Edition represents the modern interpretation of Ford’s legendary GT40 race cars that dominated Le Mans in the 1960s.

The Gulf Livery Legacy

What makes this particular vehicle extraordinary is its distinctive blue and orange paint scheme honoring the partnership between Ford and Gulf Oil during the company’s racing heyday. The Heritage Edition package was among the most exclusive variants of the 2005-2006 Ford GT production run, with only a small percentage featuring this iconic color combination. The car maintains its original 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine producing 550 horsepower, capable of reaching 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds.

Barrett-Jackson’s Premier Auction Event

The gavel will fall on this piece of automotive history during Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Fall Auction in Arizona. As one of the world’s premier collector car events, this venue attracts serious collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe. The auction presents a rare opportunity to acquire a museum-quality vehicle with impeccable provenance directly from the manufacturer’s collection.

This sale establishes a new precedent for how automotive heritage can be both preserved and shared with collectors worldwide. The proceeds will enable Ford to continue curating its historical collection while ensuring this magnificent machine finds a new home where it can be properly maintained and appreciated.

P0471 Exhaust Pressure Sensor Performance Range

P0471 Exhaust Pressure Sensor Range/Performance

What Does It Mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code applies to all engines using variable nozzle turbochargers (gasoline or diesel), starting around 2005 on Ford trucks with 6.0L diesel engines, all Ford EcoBoost engines, and eventually leading to the Cummins 6.7L in 2007, the 3.0L in the Mercedes lineup in 2007, and more recently the Cummins 3.0L 6-cylinder in Nissan vans from 2015. This doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get this code in a VW or other brand.

This code is strictly concerned with the incoming signal from the exhaust pressure sensor not matching the intake manifold pressure or ambient air pressure during key-on. This could be an electrical circuit fault or it could be mechanical.

The P0470 code may also be present along with P0471. The only difference between these two codes is the duration of the issue and the type of electrical/mechanical problem encountered by the sensor/circuit/engine controller. Troubleshooting steps may vary by manufacturer, gas or diesel, type of exhaust pressure sensor, and wire colors.

Related Exhaust Pressure Sensor Fault Codes:

P0470 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit
P0472 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Low
P0473 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit High
P0474 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent

Symptoms of a P0471 Engine Code May Include:

Check Engine Light on
Lack of power
Unable to perform a manual regeneration
If it is unable to perform regeneration.

Potential Causes

Typically, the causes for this code to set are:

Blockage in the exhaust manifold tube to the pressure sensor
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system / air intake / boost air leaks
Faulty exhaust pressure sensor
A faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) might be the cause (very unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check for a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for your specific vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogram to address this issue, and it’s worth checking before finding out you’ve taken a long/wrong path.

Next, locate the exhaust pressure sensor on your specific vehicle. Once located, disconnect the tube connecting the sensor to the exhaust manifold. Try to blow through it. If you cannot, try to pass a small piece of wire through to dislodge the carbon trapped inside, causing the fault code you are experiencing. If you notice some water blown out, this could be the cause of the code.

If the tube is clear and free, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look corroded, burnt, or perhaps greenish compared to the normal metallic color you are used to seeing. You can get electrical contact cleaner at any auto parts store if terminal cleaning is needed. If that’s not possible, find 91% rubbing alcohol and a soft plastic-bristled brush to clean them.

Then, let them air dry, get some dielectric silicone compound (the same kind used for bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and apply a small amount where the terminals make contact. Next, ensure the tube connecting the turbocharger to the intake manifold is not leaking. Visually inspect all tube connections around the turbocharger and intake manifold. Tighten all hose/band clamps.

Scan Tool

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from the memory and see if this code returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

If the code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. Typically, there are 3 wires at the exhaust pressure sensor.

Disconnect the harness going to the exhaust pressure sensor. With a Digital Volt-Ohm Meter (DVOM), test the 5V supply circuit going to the sensor to ensure it is powered (red wire to the 5V supply circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there are 12 volts at the sensor when there should be 5 volts, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor for a short to 12 volts, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that’s okay, with a DVOM, check that the exhaust pressure sensor signal circuit is 5V (red wire to the sensor signal circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, or if you see 12 volts at the sensor, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor, or again a faulty PCM.

If that checks out, verify that the exhaust pressure sensor ground is good. Connect a 12V test light to the battery positive (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the exhaust pressure sensor circuit ground. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate a circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wiring harness going to each sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0471 code, this would most likely indicate a failing exhaust pressure sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced.

P0472 Low Input from Exhaust Pressure Sensor

What does it mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code applies to all engines using variable nozzle turbochargers (gasoline or diesel), starting around 2005 on Ford trucks with 6.0L diesel engines, all Ford EcoBoost engines, and eventually leading to the Cummins 6.7L in 2007, the 3.0L in the Mercedes lineup in 2007, and more recently the Cummins 3.0L 6-cylinder in Nissan vans starting in 2015. This does not necessarily mean you won’t get this code in a VW or other brand.

This code is strictly concerned with the incoming signal from the exhaust pressure sensor not matching the intake manifold pressure or ambient air pressure during power-up. It is strictly an electrical circuit fault.

Code P0471 may also be present along with P0472. The main difference between these two codes is that P0472 is purely electrical while P0471 can result from a mechanical or electrical fault. It is generally recommended to start with P0473 (electrical) before moving on to P0471 (electrical/mechanical) next. This way, if the problem is electrical, there is a higher likelihood of repair by starting with the electrical system.

Troubleshooting steps may vary by manufacturer, gasoline or diesel, type of exhaust pressure sensor, and wire colors.

Related Exhaust Pressure Sensor Fault Codes:

P0470 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit
P0471 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance
P0473 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” High Circuit
P0474 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0472 engine code may include:

Check Engine Light on
Lack of power
Unable to perform a manual regeneration – burn soot from the particulate filter. It looks like a catalytic converter but has temperature sensors and pressure sensor probes inserted in it.
If it is unable to perform regeneration, it may eventually become a no-start condition.

Potential Causes

Typically, the causes for this code to set are:

Open in the signal circuit between the exhaust pressure sensor and the PCM
Open in the power supply circuit between the exhaust pressure sensor and the PCM
Short to ground in the exhaust pressure sensor signal circuit
Faulty exhaust pressure sensor – internal short to ground
A Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may be faulty (very unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

Next, locate the exhaust pressure sensor on your specific vehicle. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they appear corroded, burnt, or perhaps greenish compared to the normal metallic color you’re used to seeing. You can get electrical contact cleaner at any auto parts store if terminal cleaning is needed. If that’s not possible, find 91% rubbing alcohol and a soft plastic-bristled brush to clean them. Then let them air dry, get some dielectric silicone compound (same as used for bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and apply it where the terminals make contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from memory and see if this code returns. If not, the connections were likely your problem.

If the code returns, we’ll need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. Typically, there are 3 wires to the exhaust pressure sensor.

Disconnect the harness going to the exhaust pressure sensor. With a digital voltmeter (DVOM), test the 5V supply circuit going to the sensor to ensure it has power (red wire to the 5V supply circuit, black wire to a good ground). If there are 12 volts at the sensor when there should be 5 volts, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor for a short to 12 volts, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0472 code, this would most likely indicate a failing exhaust pressure sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced.

Cadillac’s Last V8 Manual Sedan Era Ends

The Final Chapter for Performance Sedans

Cadillac’s CT5-V Blackwing represents the concluding act for V8-powered manual transmission sedans in the automotive landscape. With confirmation that both CT4 and CT5 models will cease production after the 2026 model year, these high-performance vehicles are transitioning into collector’s items. The remaining units at dealerships constitute the final new examples available to enthusiasts.

Engineering Excellence and Driving Engagement

The CT5-V Blackwing stands as a testament to traditional performance values, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 668 horsepower. The available six-speed manual transmission provides an authentic driving experience increasingly rare in today’s market. This combination delivers precise throttle control and mechanical engagement that modern automatic transmissions cannot replicate.

Historical Significance in Modern Packaging

These vehicles bridge decades of Cadillac performance heritage with contemporary technology. The Blackwing models incorporate advanced magnetic ride control and carbon-ceramic brakes while maintaining the visceral feedback of a manual gearbox. This synthesis of old-school mechanical components with modern engineering creates a unique driving character that future electric vehicles will not emulate.

The Changing Landscape of Performance Cars

The discontinuation of these models signals a broader industry shift toward electrification and automated transmissions. While future Cadillac performance vehicles will undoubtedly offer impressive capabilities, the specific combination of V8 power and manual control represents a disappearing driving philosophy. The CT5-V Blackwing’s departure marks the end of an era where drivers could experience maximum performance through direct mechanical interaction.

As automotive technology progresses toward electrification, vehicles like the CT5-V Blackwing will be remembered as the ultimate expression of traditional American performance sedans. Their combination of brute power, driver-focused controls, and luxury appointments creates a memorable experience that future generations may only encounter in automotive museums.

P0473 Exhaust Pressure Sensor, High Input

What does it mean?

This generic powertrain/engine diagnostic code applies to all engines using variable nozzle turbochargers (gasoline or diesel), starting around 2005 on Ford trucks with 6.0L diesel engines, all Ford EcoBoost engines, and eventually leading to the Cummins 6.7L in 2007, the 3.0L in the Mercedes range in 2007, and more recently the Cummins 3.0L 6-cylinder in Nissan vans starting in 2015. This does not necessarily mean you won’t get this code in a VW or other brand.

The P0471 code may also be present at the same time as P0473. The main difference between these two codes is that P0473 is purely electrical, while P0471 can be the result of a mechanical or electrical fault. It is generally recommended to start with P0473 (electrical) before moving on to P0471 (electrical/mechanical) next. This way, if the problem is electrical, there is a higher likelihood of repair by starting with the electrical system.

Troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the manufacturer, gasoline or diesel, the type of exhaust pressure sensor, and wire colors.

A typical exhaust pressure sensor:
Exhaust Pressure Sensor

Related Exhaust Pressure Sensor Fault Codes:

P0470 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit
P0471 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance
P0472 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Low
P0474 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent

Symptoms of an engine code P0473 may include:

Check Engine Light on
Lack of power
Unable to perform a manual regeneration – burn off soot from the particulate filter. It looks like a catalytic converter but has temperature sensors and pressure sensor probes inserted into it.
If it is unable to perform regeneration, it may eventually lead to a no-start condition.

Potential Causes

Typically, the causes for this code to set are as follows:

Open in the ground circuit to the exhaust pressure sensor
Open in the signal circuit between the exhaust pressure sensor and the PCM
Short to voltage in the exhaust pressure sensor signal circuit
Faulty exhaust pressure sensor – internal short to voltage
A Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may be faulty (very unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to search for a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for your specific vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogramming to address this issue, and it’s worth checking before discovering you’ve taken a long/wrong path.

Next, locate the exhaust pressure sensor on your specific vehicle. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they appear corroded, burnt, or perhaps greenish compared to the normal metallic color you’re probably used to seeing. You can get electrical contact cleaner at any auto parts store if terminal cleaning is needed. If that’s not possible, find 91% rubbing alcohol and a soft plastic-bristled brush to clean them. Then, let them air dry, get some dielectric silicone compound (the same kind used for bulb sockets and spark plug wires), and apply a small amount where the terminals make contact.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from memory and see if this code returns. If it doesn’t, the connections were likely your problem.

If the code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. Typically, there are 3 wires to the exhaust pressure sensor.

If that checks out, verify that the exhaust pressure sensor is properly grounded. Connect a test light to the positive 12V battery terminal (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the exhaust pressure sensor circuit ground. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate a circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wiring and go to the exhaust pressure sensor to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0473 code, it would most likely indicate a failing exhaust pressure sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced.

P0474 Exhaust Pressure Sensor, Circuit A, Intermittent

What Does It Mean?

This generic powertrain/drivetrain diagnostic code applies to all engines using variable nozzle turbochargers (gasoline or diesel), starting around 2005 on Ford trucks with 6.0L diesel engines, all Ford EcoBoost engines, and eventually leading to the Cummins 6.7L in 2007, the 3.0L in the Mercedes lineup in 2007, and more recently the Cummins 3.0L 6-cylinder in Nissan vans starting in 2015. This does not necessarily mean you won’t get this code in a VW or other brand.

This code is strictly concerned with the incoming signal from the exhaust pressure sensor not matching the intake manifold pressure or ambient air pressure at various times during engine operation. This could be an electrical circuit fault or it could be mechanical.

Codes P0471, P0472, or P0473 may also be present along with P0474. The only difference between these codes is the duration of the problem and the type of electrical/mechanical issue encountered by the sensor/circuit/engine controller.

Troubleshooting steps may vary by manufacturer, gas or diesel, type of exhaust pressure sensor, and wire colors.

Related Exhaust Pressure Sensor Fault Codes:

P0470 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit
P0471 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance
P0472 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit Low
P0473 Exhaust Pressure Sensor “A” Circuit High

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0474 engine code may include:

Check Engine Light on
Lack of power
Unable to perform a manual regeneration – burn soot from the particulate filter. Looks like a catalytic converter but has temperature sensors and pressure sensor probes inserted in it.
If unable to perform regeneration, it may eventually become a no-start condition.

Potential Causes

Typically, the causes for this code to set are:

Blockage in the exhaust manifold tube to the pressure sensor
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system / air intake / boost air leaks
Intermittent open in the exhaust pressure sensor ground circuit
Intermittent open in the signal circuit between the exhaust pressure sensor and the PCM
Intermittent short to voltage in the signal circuit to the exhaust pressure sensor
Exhaust Gas Pressure Sensor
A Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may be faulty (very unlikely)

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to search for a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for your specific vehicle. The vehicle manufacturer may have a PCM flash/reprogramming to cover this issue, and it’s worth checking before finding out you’ve taken a long/wrong path.

Next, locate the exhaust pressure sensor on your specific vehicle. Once located, disconnect the tube connecting the sensor to the exhaust manifold. Try blowing through it. If you cannot, try running a small piece of wire through it to dislodge the carbon trapped inside, causing the fault code you are experiencing.

If the tube is clear and free, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for chafing, rubbing, bare wires, burns, or melted plastic. Separate the connectors and carefully inspect the terminals (the metal parts) inside the connectors. See if they look corroded, burnt, or perhaps greenish compared to the normal metallic color you are probably used to seeing. You can get electrical contact cleaner at any auto parts store if terminal cleaning is needed. If that’s not possible, find 91% isopropyl alcohol and a soft plastic-bristled brush to clean them. Then, let them air dry, get some dielectric silicone compound (same as used for bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and apply a small amount where the terminals make contact.

Next, ensure the tube connecting the turbocharger to the intake manifold is not leaking. Visually inspect all tube connections around the turbocharger and intake manifold. Tighten all hose/band clamps.

If you have a scan tool, clear the diagnostic codes from memory and see if this code returns. If it does not, the connections were likely your problem.

If the code returns, we will need to test the sensor and its associated circuits. Typically, there are 3 wires to the exhaust pressure sensor. Disconnect the harness going to the exhaust pressure sensor. With a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM), test the 5V supply circuit going to the sensor to ensure it is powered (red lead to the 5V supply circuit, black lead to a good ground). If there are 12 volts at the sensor when there should be 5 volts, repair the wiring from the PCM to the sensor for a short to 12 volts, or possibly a faulty PCM.

If that’s okay, with a DVOM, check that the exhaust pressure sensor signal circuit is 5V (red lead to the sensor signal circuit, black lead to a good ground). If there is no 5 volts at the sensor, or if you see 12V at the sensor, repair the wiring between the PCM and the sensor, or again, a possible faulty PCM.

If that checks out, verify the exhaust pressure sensor ground is good. Connect a test light to the positive 12V battery terminal (red terminal) and touch the other end of the test light to the ground circuit going to the exhaust pressure sensor circuit ground. If the test light does not illuminate, that would indicate the circuit problem. If it lights up, wiggle the wire harness going to each terminal to see if the test light flickers, indicating an intermittent connection.

If all tests have passed so far and you continue to get a P0474 code, try wiggling the sensor wire harness while watching the scan tool to see if the code returns. If it does, this most likely indicates an intermittent connection in the harness. If it does not, this would most likely indicate a faulty exhaust pressure sensor, although a faulty PCM cannot be ruled out until the sensor has been replaced.