A variety of sensors are used in the engine systems of cars and other modern vehicles. In modern vehicles, all the sensors have to send information to the vehicle’s ECM about the working status of the respective parts based on their functioning.
Similarly, EGR pressure sensors are also used in engine parts of modern cars and other vehicles. In this post, we will discuss the EGR pressure sensor in detail. like what an EGR pressure sensor is, how it works, bad EGR sensor symptoms, causes, and replacement cost.
What Is A EGR Pressure Sensor?
The EGR pressure sensor typically measures the ambient air pressure in the EGR system and sends a signal to the ECM by comparing it to the positive pressure of the EGR system.
Based on this signal, the ECM makes the correct air and fuel ratio adjustments in the fuel mixture according to engine speed and requirements. So that the engine can give better performance according to the right amount of fuel consumption.
The EGR pressure sensor is helpful in reducing the emission of pollutants from the engine. With the help of the EGR pressure sensor, the EGR valve system pushes nitrogen oxides from the engine exhaust back into the engine to burn them.
How Does EGR Pressure Sensor Work?
The EGR pressure sensor works with the EGR valve to control pressure in the EGR valve system and sends information to the vehicle’s ECM about the position of the EGR system’s pintle. Based on this information, the vehicle’s ECM controls the EGR valve to open when the gas pressure in the EGR system is high and close when the pressure is low.
Due to which the performance of the engine and the torque on pickup are directly affected when acceleration is given. The electrical wire at the EGR pressure sensor allows it to communicate with the vehicle’s ECM.
So the ECM calculates the amount of exhaust gassufficient to send back to the engine based on the signal from the EGR sensor. Thereby, improving engine performance and reducing pollutants in emissions.
EGR Pressure Sensor Location
Typically, the EGR valve position sensor is mounted on top of the EGR valve in a vehicle’s engine. The EGR pressure sensor fits close to the EGR valve since the exhaust gas hoses are connected to the sensor as well as the valve.
Symptoms Of A Bad EGR Pressure Sensor
The most common symptoms of a bad EGR pressure sensor are a check engine light, poor mileage, loss of performance, excessive smoke from the tailpipe, low pickup during acceleration, engine vibration and jerks or rough idle.
Check engine light illuminated
More exhaust black smoke
Low fuel efficiency
Engine low power and performance
Low pickup during acceleration
Sudden engine jerk at high speed
Engine stalling
Rough idle
Received P0400, P0401, P0402, P0403, and P0404 codes when scanned with an OBD scanner.
Causes of EGR Pressure Sensor Failure
The most common causes of a bad EGR pressure sensor are physical damage, electrical issues, sensor contamination, or a faulty EGR system.
1. Physical Damage
Sometimes the EGR pressure sensor can get damaged due to excessive engine heat. This can completely disrupt the functioning of the EGR pressure sensor.
2. Electrical Problems
Damaged electrical connections can also cause the pressure sensor of the EGR valve in a vehicle’s engine to fail. Because the signal does not reach the vehicle’s ECM if the sensor wire is damaged.
3. Contamination on The Sensor
In many cases, the sensing point of the EGR pressure sensor can become corroded by the accumulation of dirt, oil, or other contaminants, due to which its sensing process can stop completely.
4. Faulty EGR Valve System
Sometimes the EGR valve system installed in the engine becomes defective or damaged for some reason. Due to this, the EGR system becomes unable to function properly.
EGR Valve Fault Codes Meaning
P0400 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR System Flow Malfunction)
P0401 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Circuit
P0402 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Excessive Detective
P0403 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation Insufficient Detected
P0404 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Circuit Range/Performance
How To Diagnose A Faulty EGR Pressure Sensor?
To diagnose a faulty EGR pressure sensor, you will need to perform the following steps.
Use an OBD Digital Scanner: Firstly, you should check the system of the vehicle with an OBD scanner. so that you can find out the fault code related to the EGR pressure sensor. These fault codes are stored by the vehicle’s ECM. Try resetting all these fault codes once.
Check Wiring: Next, you check the wiring to the EGR pressure sensor. This sensor is unable to transmit a signal to the ECM of the vehicle if the wiring is damaged. due to which the functioning of the EGR valve can be completely disrupted.
Inspect the EGR pressure sensor: Next, you inspect the EGR pressure sensor. You will need a multimeter to test it. The voltage has to be checked by connecting the multimeter to the electrical connection of the sensor. And you can use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure of the exhaust gas.
Inspect the EGR valve system: Next, you will need to check the EGR valve system on the engine. So you have to make sure that the EGR valve system is working properly or not. For this, you would test the EGR valve and EGR cooler.
NOTE:Testing the EGR pressure sensor and EGR valve system is a complex process. You should consult a professional vehicle mechanic for its diagnosis.
EGR Pressure Sensor Replacement Cost
The EGR pressure feedback sensor replacement cost for typical cars can average between $130 and $165, including mechanic labor costs. But this estimated cost does not include taxes and fees.
The cost of an EGR pressure sensor can range from $90 to $110. And the labor cost for replacement by a mechanic can range from $40 to $55. EGR pressure feedback sensor replacement cost depends on the make and model of the vehicle and mechanic labor costs.
FAQ’s
Q. What happens when the EGR sensor goes bad?
When your vehicle’s EGR valve wears out or does not function properly, the engine will emit more emissions. If the EGR valve is open, it lowers the temperature of the engine’s internal combustion chamber, resulting in insufficient combustion of the fuel and excess unburned hydrocarbon gases out the tailpipe.
Q. Where is the EGR pressure sensor?
Typically, the EGR valve position sensor is mounted on top of the EGR valve in a vehicle’s engine.
Q. Can I drive without the EGR pressure sensor?
Yes, but driving a vehicle with a bad EGR pressure sensor is not recommended, and your vehicle will idle, shake at idle, and have the check engine light come on.
