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Anonymous Posted on Jan 31, 2011

Check engine light stays on the code that keeps coming up is P0401 changed egr valve clened out carbon build up also smell gas when first start not driving and fuel millage not as good car runs good though no misses idles smooth

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Ed Mac

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  • Posted on Jan 31, 2011
Ed Mac
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Could be a EGR vacuum issue or temp sensor issue

Common Problems That Trigger the P0401 Code

  • Restriction in the EGR passages, usually caused by carbon buildup
  • Lack of a proper vacuum signal to the EGR Valve from EGR Vacuum Solenoid
  • EGR Vacuum Modulator is defective
  • EGR Temperature Sensor is defective
  • EGR Valve is defective
This is from:
http://repairpal.com/OBD-II-Code-P0401-Ford

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03 honda civic 1.7L p0401 EGR code.

In fixing this code, it is quite common for people to just replace the EGR valve only to have the OBD code return. The EGR valve is not always the culprit. Use a vacuum pump and pull the EGR valve open while monitoring engine RPM's & DPFE voltage. There should be a noticable difference in RPM's with the EGR open Clean out the EGR valve and/or tubing to remove deposits Check the voltage at the DPFE, compare to specified values (refer to a repair manual for your specific model) Replace the DPFE sensor (with a good quality / OEM one)

Read more at: https://www.obd-codes.com/p0401
Copyright OBD-Codes.com
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Check engine light code P0401 98 Ford expedition

OBD-II Trouble Code P0401 - Insufficient EGR Flow

EGR stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. It is part of the vehicle emmissions system, and is used to reduce combustion temperature and pressure to control Oxides of Nitrogen. There are generally three parts to the EGR system: the EGR valve, an actuator solenoid, and a differential pressure sensor EGR (DPFE). These things work together to deliver the correct amount of recirculation based on engine temperature, load, etc. The P0401 code means that OBD detected an insufficient amount of EGR. You may notice drivability problems such as pinging (a.k.a. pre-ignition knock) when the engine is under load or the vehicle is at higher speeds. There may also be other symptoms.

A code P0401 most likely means one or more of the following has happened:
The DPFE (differential pressure feedback EGR) sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced
There is a blockage in the EGR (tube), most likely carbon buildup
The EGR valve is faulty
The EGR valve may not be opening due to a lack of vaccuum

Check it and keep us updated. Hope this helps (remember to rating this free answer).
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I changed the EGR valve on my '02 PT Cruiser about a year ago when I got the code, not the check engine light is coming on again but the car is running fine! I have taken it back to my mechanic twice to...

Its either a faulty EGR valve or it has carbon build up inside.Take valve off and clean carbon out using a non-chrlonated brake cleaner and wire brush.
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The check engine light is on, the EGR valve has been replaced, code P0401 appears on diagnostic. The engine is 4 cyl DOHC 2 wd. slight exhaust odor at times in vehicle.

Are you reset the stored codes there? The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve controls an engine's emission of smog-causing nitrous oxides, or NOx. Its job is to route a portion of the exhaust gases back into the intake manifold. That lowers combustion temperature to below 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit - the temperature at which NOx gases form.

EGR flow is controlled by the engine's computer, which opens or closes the valve as needed. The EGR system is, for the most part, in the "out of sight, out of mind" category, and typical doesn't require regular maintenance. But if it gets clogged with carbon deposits, you'll see your "check engine" light come on, and a code (perhaps P0401 or P0402 or P0403) will show that there is insufficient flow. That typically results from a vehicle being driven persistently on short trips that don't allow the engine to fully warm up. Flow problems also can be caused by carbon buildup due to failure to change the oil frequently enough.

A clogged EGR valve not only results in higher emissions, it can affect fuel economy and cause rough idling - even serious engine damage. Valves can usually be cleaned, but replacement is often recommended.

About thie generic fault code, I suggtes check this description and tips for solution information: DTC-P0401-Tests (keep in midn that this code applied for alot brands, Hyundai included).

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ENGINE RUNS FINE. SERVICE LIGHT IS ON AND THE CODE NUMBER SHOWING IS PO401. WHAT IS THIS FOR SAYING?

  1. po401 refers to an insuffient flow of EGR gasses
  2. locate egr valve
  3. with engine running at idle
  4. on the underside of the valve you can access the diaphram.
  5. wearing glove if ness
  6. lift diaphram while idling
  7. does engine stall or run very rough?
  8. if not remove valve
  9. start engine
  10. you should hear a very large vaccum leak and exhaust noise
  11. if either are missing investigate cause
  12. if ok reassemble.
  13. locate DPFE sensor
  14. inspect sensor for damage
  15. inspect hose to sensor for damage
  16. replace sensor
  17. 9ecffd7.gif
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-clean the EGR passage inside the EGR valve with the caburetor cleaner.
Reset the light, if the light still coming back, then replace the EGR valve.
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