What Is the P0471 Code?
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The P0471 code indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) has received a signal from your exhaust pressure sensor outside the normal range for this signal circuit. This generic trouble code can appear on the OBD-II scanner for many vehicle manufacturers. While turbochargers and superchargers are the most likely cause of the code due to the increased exhaust pressures, all internal combustion vehicles need a small amount of exhaust pressure. The code can happen due to electrical or mechanical faults and can occur in diesel and gas engines.
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More About Error Code P0471
When the PCM triggers a P0471 generic error code, it means there’s been an issue with the exhaust pressure sensor A. Usually, the exhaust pressure sensor and the intake manifold pressure or ambient air pressure should be the same. This code only means that the exhaust pressure sensor has reported a different reading than the intake manifold pressure. It doesn’t indicate why this is happening or the underlying problem.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0471 Code?
The symptoms of the problem often depend on the actual underlying cause of this diagnostic trouble code. The most prominent symptom that you’ll see for most vehicle error codes is the check engine light turning on. On top of that, you may also experience a general lack of power, especially when accelerating in a way that would typically cause the turbocharger or supercharger to turn on, which can lead to engine overheating in some cases. Sometimes, even if you don’t initially see reduced power, your vehicle might be unable to perform manual regeneration, which is when a diesel-type engine burns off the soot from a particulate filter. This can eventually create a no-crank state.
What Are Some Causes of a P0471 Code?
There are a number of issues that can cause engine code P0471. Issues with the exhaust gas pressure sensor are most common, including electrical failures, problems with the wiring harness, and loose or corroded connections. It could also be that the exhaust gas recirculation system is faulty, including issues with the air inlet or with charge air leaks. If there’s a blockage in the tube between the exhaust manifold and the pressure sensor, this can also cause a discrepancy. Finally, very rarely, there may be a serious PCM issue, although this is so rare that you should check every other possible issue first.
How Serious Is the P0471 Code?
The P0471 range fault code is decisively serious. Even if the vehicle drives without problems, this code can easily result in more serious drivability problems over time. Chief among them is that if the vehicle cannot perform regeneration, it will eventually be unable to start entirely. However, even if regeneration continues to work well, this code means that your vehicle can’t accurately track the pressure within the system, which can create problems.
Can I Still Drive with a P0471 Code?
In many cases, you will physically be able to drive when the P0471 fault code is active. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should keep driving. As previously mentioned, the more you drive the vehicle with this code active, the more likely you’ll run into serious safety concerns, potentially including becoming completely stranded due to a no-crank situation. When you know this code is active, avoid driving your vehicle.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0471 Code?
There are many potential steps to diagnosing the underlying cause of the P0471 code. You will need to look into the tube connecting the pressure sensor and exhaust manifold, check the pressure sensor itself, try the tube connecting the turbocharger and the intake manifold, and check all the wires leading to the sensor. While it is possible to diagnose the problem for some extremely skilled DIYers, an automotive repair expert can diagnose it more easily and find critical engine information the first time.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0471 Code?
The inspection process is much the same as the diagnostic process. You must inspect multiple systems within the turbocharger process, including many tubes and electrical connections. If you aren’t well-versed in your specific vehicle’s needs, you won’t know what you’re doing here, which can result in you falling down the wrong path for the inspection process as a whole. This is one reason some people will get an expert’s automotive repair skills to help them with the correct repair procedures.
Need Additional Help with Your P0471 Code?
Many people choose to get professional help with the P0471 code. The auto repair skills available at an automobile repair shop ensure you don’t misdiagnose the problem.
Start with finding an auto repair shop in your area. That way, you can avoid driving further than is necessary to get the proper repairs.
Sometimes, the P0471 code may also come with other codes when you use your scan tool. The OBD-II database, available at KBB.com, will give you more insight into what these codes mean and how to approach them.
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