Troubleshooting P0471 Error Code on Ford 6.7 Diesel Engines

AvatarByCarl Frisch

P0471 code is a generic OBD-II trouble code indicating an issue with the Exhaust Pressure Sensor (EPS) Circuit Range/Performance. This code is specific to Ford 6.7 diesel engines and is most commonly seen on 2011-2016 F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks. The EPS monitors the exhaust pressure in the exhaust system and sends an electrical signal to the engine control module (ECM). When this signal falls outside of its specified range, the ECM will set a P0471 code and illuminate the Check Engine Light. Common causes for this code include faulty or dirty exhaust pressure sensors, damaged wiring or connectors, clogged catalytic converters, exhaust leaks, and faulty intake actuator valves. To diagnose this code, a technician will need to use a scan tool to check for any stored codes and freeze frame data. They will then need to visually inspect the exhaust system for any signs of damage or debris. Once any repairs have been made, they will need to clear all codes from the ECM and reset it for proper operation.

Automobile: Diagnostic Trouble Code P0471

What is Diagnostic Trouble Code P0471?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0471 is an OBD-II generic code that is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a low pressure in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. This code has to do with the EGR system, which is responsible for recirculating exhaust gas back into the engine. When this code occurs, it means that the ECM detected a pressure difference between the upstream and downstream EGR pressure sensors. This issue can be caused by a number of different issues such as a faulty EGR valve, a clogged EGR passage, or possibly an issue with one of the pressure sensors.

Symptoms of this Code

When DTC P0471 sets, you may notice some of these common symptoms:
• Decreased fuel economy
• Poor vehicle performance
• Rough idle
• Hesitation on acceleration
• Excessive exhaust emissions
• Possible illumination of the Check Engine Light
It’s important to know that these symptoms may not appear right away; they may come and go as time passes and the problem gets worse. In most cases, you may not even notice any symptoms at all until you have this code checked out by a professional mechanic.

Causes of this Code

There are several possible causes for DTC P0471:
• Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve – The EGR valve regulates the amount of exhaust gas being circulated back into the engine. If it fails or becomes clogged, it could cause low pressure in the EGR system, resulting in this code setting. • Clogged EGR Passage – If the passage that connects the EGR valve to the intake manifold becomes clogged with carbon deposits, it can restrict airflow and cause low pressure in the system, resulting in this code setting. • Faulty Pressure Sensor – The EGR system uses two separate pressure sensors to monitor how much exhaust gas is being recirculated back into the engine. If either one of these sensors fail or become damaged, it could cause this code to set. • Vacuum Leaks – Vacuum leaks can also cause low pressure in the EGR system and result in this code setting. • Faulty Coolant Temp Sensor – A faulty coolant temperature sensor can also cause this code to set if it sends inaccurate readings to the ECM regarding engine temperature. • Wiring Issues – Wiring issues related to either one of these components can also be responsible for causing this code to set if they are shorting out or have become damaged due to corrosion or other environmental factors.

Diagnosing and Repairing The Issue

diagnosing and repairing an issue with DTC P0471 will involve performing some basic diagnostic tests on each component involved with your vehicle’s EGR system such as checking for vacuum leaks, inspecting wiring harnesses for damage or corrosion, testing all related sensors and components such as coolant temp sensor and EGR valve for proper operation etc.. It’s important to note that any repairs should be performed by an experienced technician who has extensive knowledge about your specific vehicle make/model/year so they can properly diagnose and repair any issues quickly and efficiently without causing further damage down the road..

What is P0471 Error Code in Ford 6.7 Diesel Engines?

The P0471 error code is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that refers to an issue with the Ford 6.7 diesel engine’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. The EGR system works to reduce emissions by recirculating some of the exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber, where it can be burned off again. When the EGR system is not functioning properly, it can cause a variety of problems, including an increase in emissions and decreased performance. In order to diagnose and repair this issue, it’s important to understand what causes the P0471 error code and how it can be fixed.

Common Causes of a P0471 Error Code in Ford 6.7 Diesel Engines

There are several common causes of a P0471 error code in Ford 6.7 diesel engines. These include: wiring issues, malfunctioning EGR valve circuit sensor, malfunctioning pressure sensor or exhaust back pressure (EBP) sensor, clogged EGR valve or EGR cooler failure, and leaks in the exhaust system.

Wiring issues are one of the most common causes of this type of error code and can be caused by loose connections or faulty wiring components. It’s important to thoroughly inspect all wiring connections in order to diagnose and repair any potential issues before continuing with other repairs.

A malfunctioning EGR valve circuit sensor can also cause this type of problem. This component helps regulate the flow of exhaust gases into the combustion chamber and when it isn’t working correctly it can lead to an increase in emissions as well as decreased performance. It’s important to inspect this component for any sign of damage or wear before attempting any repairs.

In addition, a malfunctioning pressure sensor or exhaust back pressure (EBP) sensor can also lead to a P0471 error code in Ford 6.7 diesel engines. This component helps regulate the amount of pressure within the exhaust system and if it isn’t functioning correctly it can lead to an increase in emissions as well as decreased performance. It’s important to inspect this component for any signs of damage or wear before attempting any repairs.

Another common cause is a clogged EGR valve or EGR cooler failure which occurs when debris builds up inside these components causing them to become blocked or stuck open which leads to an increase in emissions as well as decreased performance. It’s important to clean out these components regularly using proper cleaning techniques such as using compressed air or chemical cleaners depending on the severity of the blockage before attempting any repairs on these components if needed..

Lastly, leaks in the exhaust system can also cause a P0471 error code in Ford 6.7 diesel engines due to improper sealing or faulty gaskets which leads to an increase in emissions as well as decreased performance due to improper fuel-air mixture ratios within the cylinder heads where combustion takes place . Common areas for leaks include turbocharger piping, improperly sealed exhaust manifold and faulty gaskets within the exhaust system itself so it’s important to inspect all areas for potential leaks before attempting any repairs if needed..

Solutions for Fixing P0471 Error Code in Ford 6.7 Diesel Engines

Once you’ve identified what is causing your P0471 error code on your Ford 6 7 diesel engine then you’ll need repair solutions that will help you fix your problem quickly so you can get back on track with your vehicle’s performance without sacrificing its safety standards nor compromising its efficiency when driving around town or out on long road trips.. Depending on what caused your issue there are several solutions that may help resolve your problem including: repairing any damaged wiring connections; replacing a malfunctioning EGR valve circuit sensor; replacing a malfunctioning pressure sensor or EBP Sensor; cleaning out clogged components such as an EGR valve or cooler; sealing up any leaks within your turbocharger piping; resealing your improperly sealed exhaust manifold; and replacing faulty gaskets within your exhaust system if needed..

In conclusion ,P0471 Error Code is something that should not be taken lightly since it could have serious implications regarding both safety standards and efficiency when driving around town . Fortunately ,there are several solutions available that will help you diagnose and fix this issue quickly so you can get back on track with no further issues arising from this same problem ever again..

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is Diagnostic Trouble Code P0471?
A: P0471 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates an issue with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve circuit in Ford 6.7 diesel engines. This code indicates that the EGR valve is not operating as it should, resulting in an incorrect exhaust pressure reading.

Q: What are the Symptoms of this Code?
A: The symptoms of this code can vary depending on the severity of the issue, but generally include rough idling, engine misfires, reduced fuel economy, and potential stalling when coming to a stop. In extreme cases, the EGR system may fail completely, leading to increased exhaust emissions and engine damage.

Q: What are the Causes of this Code?
A: The causes behind diagnostic trouble code P0471 can include wiring issues, malfunctioning EGR valve circuit sensors, clogged EGR valves or EGR coolers that have failed, and leaks in the exhaust system such as turbocharger piping leaks or faulty gaskets in the exhaust system.

Q: How Can I Diagnose and Repair this Issue?
A: In order to diagnose and repair this issue correctly, you will need to use specialized diagnostic tools and techniques to locate any faulty wiring or sensors that may be causing the problem. Once these components have been repaired or replaced, you will then need to check for any leaks in your exhaust system such as turbocharger piping leaks or faulty gaskets in your exhaust system. If any leaks are present then these will need to be sealed correctly before attempting to reset your vehicle’s ECU.

Q: How can I Prevent This Issue from Happening Again?
A: You can prevent this issue from occurring again by ensuring that all components associated with your vehicle’s EGR system are working correctly and regularly checking for any signs of wear or damage in your vehicle’s exhaust system. Additionally, if you have ever replaced any components related to your vehicle’s EGR system then it is important that you follow all manufacturer recommendations regarding resetting your vehicle’s ECU after installation of new parts.

In conclusion, the P0471 code for the Ford 6.7 diesel engine is a common issue that can be caused by a few different things, including faulty wiring or an issue with the EGR system. In order to determine the exact cause, it’s important to have the engine properly diagnosed. Once the cause is determined, it can then be addressed and fixed to ensure that your Ford 6.7 diesel engine is running properly and reliably.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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