Error Code P0471: What It Means & What To Do?

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The Exhaust Pressure Sensor updates the engine control module (PCM) about the pressure in the exhaust manifold. If an incorrect signal is detected by the PCM from the exhaust pressure sensor, the PCM sets the code P0471.

If the Error code P0471 pops up, it means that the powertrain control module has identified a voltage reading from the exhaust system back pressure circuit that is higher than the normal range. This type of an error is generally monitored in turbocharged vehicles and the vehicles that have diesel engines.

What causes this problem with the Exhaust Pressure Sensor Range/Performance?

• A faulty Exhaust Gas Pressure Sensor
• A blockage in the tube that runs from the exhaust manifold to the pressure sensor
• Problem with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation System
• Issue with the powertrain control module (although that’s rare)

1. Exhaust Pressure Sensor - Facing the error code P0471? Don't worry! You can get yours replaced simply by logging into Parts Avatar at highly economical prices because a faulty one can always be problematic to fix this error code.
2. Ambient Air Pressure Sensor - Common causes behind the error code P0471 could also be an instability in the Ambient Air Pressure. So, efforts should be taken to attain ideal pressure to avoid the error code P0471.
3. Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor - A lot of issues can come up because of the Manifold pressure. So, a defective one should be changed immediately to further avoid any complications regarding the error code P0471
4. Exhaust Connectors - Tune into Parts Avatar for supreme quality Connectors at rock bottom prices easily available at your doorstep to overcome problems regarding the error code P0471.
5. Turbochargers - Inferior quality or damaged turbochargers can always halt your journey becoming the reason behind the occurrence of error code P0471. So, it should be replaced instantly.
6. Exhaust Harness - A broken harness can always create issues in conquering the error code P0471. So, a broken one should be changed instantly.
7. Powertrain Control Module - Still facing the error code P0471? It could rightly be due to a bad Powertrain control module. Being an integral unit, a faulty Powertrain Control module should be replaced instantly to avoid any further issues.
8. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve - abbreviated EGR; an Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve helps the car move efficiently and smoothly. So, to further avoid any issues with the error code P0471, a damaged one should be replaced instantly.

If you are facing OBD error code P0471, then there are significant common symptoms that can be felt or observed. We have worked out a list here to help you out in understanding this problem better.

Common symptoms

If the code is detected, it could lead to damaging the Exhaust Back Pressure Regulator. In some vehicles, diminished performance of the engine could also be noticed by the driver. There are also chances of the check engine light lighting up. Also, other codes related to the exhaust system or the turbocharger could be stored.

Wish to correct this error code with your vehicle? Do you know what all you should do to make your car free from this code? Well, don't worry! We are here to guide you.

• An OBD-II scanner should be used to diagnose the vehicle, and later observe if the code returns.
• The wires and connectors should be seen and be checked on. Damaged or corroded ones should be replaced or repaired immediately. 
• The exhaust pressure sensor should be checked.
• The tubes connecting the exhaust pressure sensor to the exhaust manifold should be checked. Any blockage found should be cleared.

To do all this, you will need few high-quality auto parts such as Exhaust Pressure Sensor, Ambient Air Pressure, Manifold Pressure, Exhaust Manifold, Connectors, Turbocharger, Harness, Powertrain Control Module, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve and so on. From where will you get them? From your local store? Well, why go there when you can order quality parts with us while sitting in the comfort of your home. So, just browse through our website and order your needed parts today.

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:

The device that is often used by the mechanic is the OBD-II scanner. The OBD-II scanner connects to the onboard computer which has the data stored about the vehicle. That's how the mechanic learns about the different codes stored, which helps him give a better idea about the vehicle’s repair. They also reset the codes, and test the vehicles accordingly to see if the codes return back or not. If they do return, the mechanic gets to know about the presence of the problem.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0471 Code

Many a times, the technician might end up misdiagnosing the problem causing further complications. In order to avoid to the issues as well as to make the process a hassle-free task, we have listed a few basic mistakes made while investigating the OBD Error Code P0471:

• Failing of the Exhaust Pressure Sensor.
• Non-performance of the Powertrain Control Module.
• Issues with the Wiring.