The P0470 is a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) which can be generated by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) in 6.0L and 7.3L automobiles. If you are unfamiliar with how this code came to be, this article will provide comprehensive information on its symptoms, causes and solutions. By reading through this material, you’ll have all the necessary knowledge to diagnose and fix any issues related to the P0470 error code.
What Does P0470 Code Means On 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke?
The Ford 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke models are among the vehicles powered by nozzle turbochargers that can have P0470 as a diagnostic trouble code. This fault code refers to an Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction, and it is generated when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) cannot communicate with the EBP (Exhaust Back Pressure) sensor. The EBP measures pressures between the engine’s exhaust and turbine wheel of the VGT/Traditional Turbocharger, in order to help PCM control the EPR (Exhaust Pressure Regulator). If this error persists for more than a short period of time, it may cause another fault code: P0471.
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Symptoms Of Getting The P0470 Code On A Ford 6.0 & 7.3
The P0470 code is a common issue for 6.0 or 7.3L Powerstroke owners and can cause significant problems when it appears. If you’re seeing this code, you may be experiencing the following issues:
- Check Engine Light (CEL) is Turned On
- Low or No Boost Issue
- Poor Fuel Economy
- Dramatically Reduced Performance
- Cranking But No Start Issue
It’s important to note that if your truck is having these symptoms, they will affect your driving experience as well as fuel economy substantially; therefore, it’s wise to get the problem checked out quickly to avoid worsening of the situation and further damage to your vehicle.
The Causing Factors Of The Error Code P0470 6.0 Powerstroke
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0470 can be caused by several factors. Most commonly, these include:
- Blockage in the Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor;
- Blockage in the EBP Sensor Tube (Coming from the Engine Manifold);
- Exhaust Gas Air Inlet, Recirculation System, or Charge Air Leaks; and
- Faulty Powertrain Control Module (Rare Case).
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How Serious Is Code P0470 On A Powerstroke (6.0L & 7.3L) ?
It is imperative to address the engine error code in a timely manner, as it can lead to more severe damages if left unchecked. Taking the time to inspect and fix this issue will be beneficial in the long run and may save costly repairs down the road. For further help on how to address this code, readers are encouraged to continue reading for detailed instructions on fixing it.
How To Solve P0470 Error Code On 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke?
P0470 is a very easy code to solve regardless of the Ford model you have. To complete the diagnostic process, certain equipment will be necessary:
- 5/8 inch Wrench & 1-inch Socket
- 9/16 inch Open End Wrench & Wire Stripper/Crimper
- OBD-II Scanner
Once all the required tools are assembled, you can begin diagnosing the P0470 code on your Ford vehicle.
Check Wirings & Connectors
Before diagnosing the exhaust back pressure sensor, it is important to inspect the wirings related to it. It is essential to check for any damages such as burnt or carbonized wires and connectors which may be causing issues. If these are found while inspecting visually, they should immediately be replaced.
After this step is completed, resetting the code via an OBD-II Scanner can help confirm if there were problems with the wirings. To further assess if there are any other underlying issues that need attention, a test driving session can also be conducted following resetting of the code. This way any remaining errors can quickly get identified and corrective action taken accordingly.
Check Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor
If a technician is looking to troubleshoot an exhaust back pressure sensor, it is important to first identify the location of the sensor. For Ford 6.0L and 7.3L engines, the EBP sensors are located in different spots. The 6.0L EBP sensor can be found on the driver side of the engine at the top of a tube coming from the exhaust while for 7.3L Powerstroke engines, it is located near the engine in front of HPOP (High-Pressure Oil Pump). Accessing this sensor in 6.0L easily compared to that of 7.3L however one has to remove a plastic engine cover for accessing EBP Sensor of Ford 7.3L:
6.0l EBP Sensor Location:
- Located on driver side of engine
- Look at top off tube coming from exhaust
7.3l EBP Sensor Location:
- Located near engine in front if HPOP (High-Pressure Oil Pump)
- Remove plastic engine cover
Disabling the EBP sensor can be a simple task if you know how to access it. Here is a step-by-step guide on disabling the EBP sensor:
- Step 1 – Access the EBP Sensor by unplugging its electrical connector.
- Step 2 – Cover the EBP Sensor with a 1-inch socket.
- Step 3 – To secure and prevent damage, use a 9/16 inch open-ended wrench to hold down the socket.
- Step 4 – Now carefully release the EBP Sensor from its place.
- Step 5 – Once you have your hands on it, inspect it thoroughly for dirt or carbon blockages and clean those up using an air compressor if necessary.
Finally, that’s all there is required for successful disabling of your vehicle’s EBP sensor!
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After Cleaning The EBP Sensor:
- The technician should reinstall the system, clear codes with a scanner and check if the code returns.
- If the code reappears, they should consider replacing the EBP sensor with a new one.
- Lastly, they need to make sure that all connections are secure and functioning correctly prior to driving.
Check Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Tube
It is important to check the EBP sensor tube if an error code P0470 appears after detaching and repairing or replacing the EBP sensor. To do this, follow these three steps:
- Step 1 – remove the EBPS tube which holds the EBP sensor at the top with a 5/8 inch wrench.
- Step 2 – use a 9/16 inch open-ended wrench to hold onto the top nut while loosening it with a 5/8 inch wrench.
- Step 3 – disconnecting it from its connection on the front of passenger side of engine by hand and using a 5/8 inch wrench. Taking these steps will help ensure that everything works properly again.
After Detaching The EBPS Tube:
- The technician will inspect the tube just as they did with the EBP sensor.
- Utilizing an air-compressed blower, the technician is responsible for cleaning out the tube thoroughly.
- In cases where heavy dirt or damage to the tube is observed, a new one must be substituted accordingly.
Replace Your Powertrain Control Module
It is important to remember that if all three processes mentioned above were implemented and the error code P0740 is still present, it may be time to replace the powertrain control module. This should not be done until after replacing the EBP sensor as some issues with a faulty PCM can often be solved by other methods before it becomes necessary to purchase a new one. Furthermore, diagnostics should always be run before any further steps are taken in order to properly diagnose any issues that could lead to an incorrect replacement part being purchased.
Knowing when and why you should replace your powertrain control module can save you both time and money when dealing with errors such as P0740. Utilizing the suggested processes before investing in a new PCM will help ensure that you have identified and fixed the source of your issue correctly while avoiding unnecessary repairs or replacements.
How Much Does It Cost To Solve The Error Code P0470?
An error code P0470 usually requires replacement of a few parts to solve the problem. The costs can vary depending on the type and quality of parts you’re getting. To better understand the estimated costs, here is a price chart for some commonly replaced components:
- EBP Sensor Tube – $15 to $20
- EBP Sensor – $30 to $70
- Wirings – More than $50
- 6.0L & 7.3L PCM – $500 to $800
Common Mistakes While Solving The P0470 Code
He/She must be mindful of all the diagnostic processes mentioned in this article, as any mistake can lead to further complications. To help minimize errors, it is best to take into consideration these common mistakes:
- Don’t Replace Your PCM Before Testing & Replacing Every Possible Part Causing The DTC
- Be Careful Of Removing The EBP Sensor & Don’t Forget To Use The 9/16 inch Open Ended Wrench
By avoiding such mistakes and taking a few extra moments to double check, he/she will make fewer costly missteps and ensure better results.
Additional Comments To Consider Regarding The P0470 Code
The error code P0470 can have detrimental effects on the engine’s performance, making it difficult for the engine to reach its full potential. Fixing this error code should be a priority in order to ensure a smooth driving experience. It is important to address any issues with an error code as soon as possible in order to maintain peak vehicle performance.
Final Thoughts
This article provided an in-depth overview of the DTC P0470 code and offered insight into how it can be fixed. It is possible for those with minimal technical knowledge to repair this code by themselves, however it may require a certain level of experience and specialized tools. For those looking for a more reliable solution, it is recommended that they seek professional help from an expert mechanic as they will charge a higher labor fee but provide peace of mind in doing so.