P0471

Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

Exhaust / emissions Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P0471 means the exhaust pressure sensor's signal is out of its expected range or doesn't match other engine data. This sensor helps manage EGR flow and, on diesels, diesel particulate filter regeneration. A skewed reading is often a clogged sensor tube or a failing sensor, and it can push the engine into reduced-power mode.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Usually yes, but the engine may enter a reduced-power (limp) mode on diesels; drive gently and get it checked to avoid EGR/DPF issues.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

753

scans in the past year

Found in

0.1%

of scans

0.2%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0471 scans

P2263in 36.0% of scans

P0380in 34.8% of scans

P0204in 27.5% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Reduced power or limp mode (common on diesels)
Sluggish acceleration under load
Slightly reduced fuel economy

Common causes

Most likely first

Faulty exhaust pressure sensor reading out of rangeLikely
Clogged or cracked sensor pressure tube to the exhaustCommon
Exhaust restriction (soot/DPF loading) skewing the readingCommon
Wiring or connector fault at the sensorLess often
Failed ECM (least common)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data and compare the sensor's live reading against known-good exhaust pressure.
Inspect the sensor's pressure tube/hose for soot blockage, cracks, or a loose fitting.
Check the sensor connector and wiring for corrosion or damage.
Replace the exhaust pressure sensor if it reads implausibly with a clear tube and good wiring.
Address any underlying exhaust restriction, then clear the code and re-test under load.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0471?+

You can usually drive, but the engine may cut power to protect the exhaust system. Drive gently and have it diagnosed soon, particularly on a diesel with a DPF.

Can I just clear P0471?+

It clears, but it returns if the sensor, its tube, or an exhaust restriction is still causing an out-of-range reading.

Read & clear P0471 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX