2004 Explorer P0401

[kruegerk]

First time posting but I've researched this code trying to figure out what direction to take. The EGR/DPFE is all one unit on this vehicle and I have read up on the various tests. I've looked at the hoses leading to this and they appear to be sound. My guess is I just need to replace the unit. Is it most common to just replace the unit or is there something to clean by taking it apart? Is it possible that mileage can degrade before an actual code is set?

 

[WaterBrat]

on my '05 4.6L I had the code and ordered a new EGR. While awaiting for it to arrive, I sprayed down the old EGR with PB Blaster to start loosening the exhaust tube. First time I started the vehicle I noticed that the code had cleared. I would suggest spraying the electrical connection with contact cleaner and maybe the whole unit. Once I got the new EGR I went ahead and replaced it primarily because it was brought to me out of the country and couldn't be returned. The code also stayed away with the new unit. but try to clean the elec. and body of your old one.

Skipper

 

[lincolnshibuya]

starting in 2004 they started to combine the DPFE sensor and EGR valve into 1 unit, p0401 usually indicates a faulty DPFE sensor and rarely the EGR valve fails (it can be cleaned) Prior to that DPFE sensors on fords is a separate unit and replacing that fixes the issue.
I don't think you could buy (or disassemble) the DPFE as a separate unit on 2004- up models, you have to buy the EGR valve along with that.

 

[Number Twelve]

Ford had a better idea!
If you have a part that never fails, and you can't reasonably engineer the quality out of it, attach it to a part that fails often. That gets those reliable EGR valves replaced on a regular basis.

What's this feeling in my bum?
Oh. Just Ford again.
Yeah, I'm getting used to that.