P0401 code - found a possible temp (or perm?) fix without buying new part

[RichardH]

Hello:

I have had the P0401 code on for a while with no issues to speak of (maybe mileage though). A local shop said they would try to remove and clean out the sensor for minimal dollars (like $20). It was at their shop for and AC compressor R/R.

So I figured if they can remove and clean, why can't I give it a shot myself.

While I was in there, I also removed and cleaned the throttle body. It looked pretty good to start but in another thread I asked about hesitation problems a while ago and finally got around to it.

So anyhow, I cleaned out the sensor with some carb cleaner, let cleaner sit in the inlets for a minute or so (not the whole part) and then gently blew out with compressed air for a minute or so. Reinstalled and took for a 15 minute drive, no code has reappeared and drives fine. (I'm coming up for inspection sticker time so needed to clear the CEL.) It's only a $30 part roughly, so I figured what the heck right. So far so good. I'll report back if the code reappears or not. If it comes back on it should do it soon: I drive 100-250 miles a day M-F.

 

[1955moose]

Your getting an egr flow code. Theirs a number of things that can trip code. But normally you need to de carbon valve itself, clear out port that runs to intake, use a vacuum pump on valve to be sure diaphragm is good, and holding. Also be sure you have vacuum at hose going to Egr. One last thing theirs a test for Egr sensor. Be sure all these items are right, or more than likely you'll get the light back on.


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[RichardH]

Your getting an egr flow code. Theirs a number of things that can trip code. But normally you need to de carbon valve itself, clear out port that runs to intake, use a vacuum pump on valve to be sure diaphragm is good, and holding. Also be sure you have vacuum at hose going to Egr. One last thing theirs a test for Egr sensor. Be sure all these items are right, or more than likely you'll get the light back on.


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Will do moose. I was following the lead from the mechanic's shop. If it comes back on, I'll go down this route described above next.

 

[1955moose]

Good deal, get your inspection now if you can. In most cases egr problems don't affect performance, maybe mileage.


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[RichardH]

It took me long enough to get to this, but wanted to inform the group. (I have been working 2 jobs, NO time at all to work on truck).

So while in the field took my my local indie shop. I still had the p0401 code. Cleaning sensor did not answer the problem. I R/R sensor. Sill got code. (Was going for easy first). AutoZone said maybe the sensor is faulty so they replaced, I R/R with new part. Still got code.

Turned out it was the ports from the elbow that lead to the EGR valve. Not my video, but this describes my problem here: It was the ports that lead to the elbow (from EGR) just past the throttle body. All other EGR parts are functioning properly.

Wish I had some pics.

Anyhow, no more codes, passed TX ODBII emissions/inspection for registration just a little while ago (and a bit late lol). No more codes of course.