Should I replace my Egr or clean and put it back in?

[Tucker V8]

This is for my 1997 Ford Explorer xlt it gives me the check engine light codes P0401 p04o2 for Egr valve pressure sensor or valve. Should I buy a new one for $30 or just clean it out and put some wd40 on it?

 

[1998Exp]

Not clear from your question what you want to clean. If the pressure sensor (DPFE) is defective, no amount of cleaning will fix it, and spraying a bad EGR valve with WD40 won't help it either. I would suggest doing some diagnostics first: it could be a bad DPFE, a bad regulator (solenoid), or a bad EGR valve. However, the DPFE is the most likely culprit, so if you are a bit of a gambler or don't have the tools to diagnose things properly, go for that one first.

This is for my 1997 Ford Explorer xlt it gives me the check engine light codes P0401 p04o2 for Egr valve pressure sensor or valve. Should I buy a new one for $30 or just clean it out and put some wd40 on it?

 

[Tucker V8]

Not clear from your question what you want to clean. If the pressure sensor (DPFE) is defective, no amount of cleaning will fix it, and spraying a bad EGR valve with WD40 won't help it either. I would suggest doing some diagnostics first: it could be a bad DPFE, a bad regulator (solenoid), or a bad EGR valve. However, the DPFE is the most likely culprit, so if you are a bit of a gambler or don't have the tools to diagnose things properly, go for that one first.

The error code was for the egr though so should I clean it out or replace it and see if it's still there?

 

[1998Exp]

These error codes are for the EGR SYSTEM, not the EGR valve. They mean that the DPFE (pressure sensor) detected either too much or too little flow, compared to what the computer commanded to do. As I said, failure of any one (or more than one) of the three system components can cause this, with the DPFE the most likely culprit. But heck, what do I know? Go ahead, clean or replace the EGR valve if that's what you wish to do.

The error code was for the egr though so should I clean it out or replace it and see if it's still there?

 

[Tucker V8]

These error codes are for the EGR SYSTEM, not the EGR valve. They mean that the DPFE (pressure sensor) detected either too much or too little flow, compared to what the computer commanded to do. As I said, failure of any one (or more than one) of the three system components can cause this, with the DPFE the most likely culprit. But heck, what do I know? Go ahead, clean or replace the EGR valve if that's what you wish to do.

How do I check the DPFE then I'll try and fix both.

 

[1998Exp]

To do this 'by the book' you'll need a handheld vacuum pump to create a pressure difference, and either a scanner or a voltmeter to read the DPFE output. It may not be worth the trouble, and most people just replace the DPFE, especially if it's the older metal-case style (those had a very high failure rate).
In any case, before you deal with the DPFE, make sure that the two little tubes that connect to it are intact, fully inserted, and not clogged. If you find that they are bad, do not replace with just ordinary vacuum tubing -- they need to be the special hi-temp material.
Check that the EGR tube itself is not cracked.
And if you can, check that the EGR valve holds vacuum.
Good luck!

How do I check the DPFE

 

[morbid81]

I just replaced the tube and valve on my 98 the tube was cracked and leaking and making what resembled a valve tick under load, i also had them do the manifolds as well as they are prone to cracking and leaking, plus 17 years of heat cycles they were probably due anyways

 

[Tucker V8]

I just replaced the tube and valve on my 98 the tube was cracked and leaking and making what resembled a valve tick under load, i also had them do the manifolds as well as they are prone to cracking and leaking, plus 17 years of heat cycles they were probably due anyways

How much did all of this cost you.

 

[alohamonte]

I've replaced the DPFE twice and it's because the rubber hoses that run off it, come apart/melt, and ruin the sensor. If you find a bad hose, the sensor is probably mucked up as well.

 

[morbid81]

after labor was 543. i supplied the parts to them. so imagine what it woulda cost had i not given them the parts