What Is the P1401 Code?
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The P1401 code, variously listed as “DPFE Circuit High Input,” “Differential/Delta Pressure Feedback EGR (DPFE) sensor circuit high voltage detected,” or “Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) pressure sensor circuit malfunction, high input,” indicates a problem within the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. DFPE stands for Differential (or Delta) Pressure Feedback EGR, which specifies a component of the EGR system that has a fault. This code specifically indicates that the voltage is too high, different from the P1400 code, which indicates a voltage that is too low.
More About the P1401 Code
“DPFE Sensor Circuit High Input” is the description of this code for Citroen, Ford, Mazda, Peugeot, Lincoln, and Mercury. You may also see other Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) faults for Audi, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Nissan, GM, and Volkswagen vehicles, although it may require you to pay attention to different parts of the system. Here are a few descriptions from other manufacturers:
- Camshaft Position Actuator ‘A’ Control Circuit Signal High Bank 1 – BMW
- DMTL Performance – Hyundai
- P1401 – CCV pressure sensor max range fault – Kenworth, Peterbilt
- EVAP system malfunction – Kia
- Heated Catalyst Current Too High During Heating Bank 1 – Mini
- Fuel tank pressure control system – malfunction – Subaru, Saab
- Throttle position (TP) sensor 2 – range/ performance problem – Toyota
As you can see, it’s important to pay attention to the description of a code, as sometimes the description for two different manufacturers can be very different.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P1401 Code?
The check engine light is the first thing you’ll likely notice with a P1401 code. Other symptoms may include a rough idle or a refusal to idle at all, issues with acceleration, increased fuel consumption, and varying degrees of power loss. The severity of your symptoms will frequently vary depending on the exact problem you’re experiencing.
What Are Some Causes of a P1401 Code?
Probably the most likely cause of this code is a defective DPFE sensor. However, other problems may include a defective EGR valve, blocked EGR passages, damaged vacuum lines and rubber hoses leading to the DPFE sensor, issues within the exhaust system, damaged, burnt, or otherwise disconnected wiring and connectors, or poor electrical connections to the DPFE. In some very rare cases, the PCM may be failing, but this is a very rare event, so you should not assume this is the problem.
How Serious Is the P1401 Code?
The severity of this problem is entirely reliant on the extent of the problem and the symptoms you’re experiencing. The code may be incredibly serious, to the extent that it’s difficult or impossible to drive your vehicle, or it may present with very few driveability concerns. Regardless, the problem becoming more serious is always a possibility, so you should treat it as though it is extremely serious.
Can I Still Drive with a P1401 Code?
Most of the time, it is possible to drive with a P1401 code to your local repair shop. However, if you’re experiencing severe drivability problems, it is always possible to call the shop you’ve set up an appointment with and ask whether it’s safe to drive to the shop. They can recommend an option to help you get to the repair shop safely.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1401 Code?
If the problem you’re dealing with is actually the defective sensor, then the diagnosis process may be very simple. Many advanced DIYers can actually replace the DPFE sensor by themselves, and it will be no problem for an expert at your local repair shop. However, past this, the diagnosis process can be extremely difficult and time-consuming.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1401 Code?
As with the diagnosis process, the inspection process can be very simple or very complex. The more difficult it is to diagnose the problem, the more difficult it is to inspect it as well. Checking wires, connectors, and other electrical components of the circuit is necessary, and you’ll also need a general knowledge of how your vehicle functions on average. If you’re at all concerned about the possibility of fixing the P1401 code correctly, then talk to an expert instead.
Need Additional Help with Your P1401 Code?
Because the P1401 code is a manufacturer-specific code and the EGR system is incredibly complex, it’s important to get an expert’s help with this code if you’ve noticed it in your vehicle. Most DIYers are not able to handle the diagnostic process of the P1401 code for this description or for many others, and getting an expert’s help can be very beneficial.
Kelley makes it easy to find a repair shop in your area that can handle your specific make and model of vehicle, even if you’re driving a vehicle that’s relatively uncommon in your area. This means you don’t have to worry about fixing the problem yourself.
Additionally, many of these codes will come with other OBD-II codes. Check out the KBB OBD-II database if you’re looking to learn more about OBD-II codes, including any that your engine is throwing.
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