P0471 code meaning
Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P04xx codes Check engine light
What P0471 means
The exhaust pressure sensor measures the pressure ahead of the turbine or in the manifold (Ford: turbine upstream pressure, Cummins: exhaust manifold pressure, older Ford diesels: EBP). The module uses it to calculate EGR flow, to control the variable turbine and engine braking, and to protect against overpressure. P0471 is the plausibility check of sensor A. Ford diesels compare it with ambient pressure with the engine off (at least 10 s stopped); a deviation above 15 kPa sets the code, including a sensor stuck mid-range. Ford gasoline engines check it during the EGR monitor. FCA notes for Cummins diesels that P0471 often comes from real back pressure of a clogged particulate filter – then the sensor must not be replaced. Ford bulletins cover a sensor replacement on the 2.7 EcoBoost and coked sensing tubes on the 6.0 diesel.
P0471 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0471
- Check engine light on
- EGR and turbo control on a substitute value, possibly reduced power
- Exhaust brake or warm-up flap without function
Common causes of P0471
- Most likelySensor drifting or faulty
- Most likelySensing tube or hose blocked or coked
- PossibleReal high back pressure from a clogged particulate filter or catalyst
- Less likelyLeaking sensing tube or exhaust leak ahead of the sensor
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Exhaust pressure sensor aSensor wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0471 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 4 | Area: auxiliary emission controls (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP). |
| 71 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0471 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0471
What does P0471 mean?
P0471 means "Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance". The exhaust pressure sensor measures the pressure ahead of the turbine or in the manifold (Ford: turbine upstream pressure, Cummins: exhaust manifold pressure, older Ford diesels: EBP). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0471?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0471 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0471 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0471 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0471 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0471 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.