What Is P0472 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke: How To Fix?

Ford 7.3L Powerstroke PCM provides many Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to notify the users about engine difficulties. P0472 is one of the DTCs & it’s related to the exhaust back pressure sensor. 

If you’re getting this error code & want to know about it thoroughly, this article is for you. In this article, I’ll be explaining everything from symptoms to solutions to the error code P0472. 

What Is P0472 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke

What Does P0472 Code Means On 7.3L Powerstroke? 

P0472 is one of the error codes of the Ford 7.3L Powerstroke. By definition, this error code refers to Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low. 

The exhaust back pressure sensor is a differential device that measures the difference between intake & outtake gas pressure. Later on, this information is sent to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

When the PCM can’t find a correlation between the signal coming from the exhaust pressure sensor & intake manifold pressure/ambient pressure, it generates the error code P0272. That being said, it’s solely an EBP sensor & electrical circuit fault. 

Symptoms Of Getting The P0472 Code On A 7.3

Your 7.3L Powerstroke will let you know if you have any error code through unusual symptoms or behavior. Here are some of the common symptoms of getting the P0472 error code on a 7.3L:  

  1. Check Engine Light (CEL) Will Turn On
  2. Lack Of Acceleration Power
  3. Manual Regeneration is Unable To Perform
  4. Crank-No Start Due To Failed Manual Regeneration 

Don’t wait for getting all the symptoms mentioned above. Use an OBD-II scanner to scan your engine for codes & act accordingly. 

The Causing Factors Of The Error Code P0472  

Several factors can cause the DTC P0472 to appear. Here are some of the common causing factors of the error code P0472: 

  1. Defective Exhaust Pressure Sensor 
  2. Open Or Shorted Exhaust Pressure Sensor 
  3. Open In Voltage Reference (VREF)
  4. Poor Exhaust Pressure Sensor Electrical Connection 
  5. Defective Powertrain Control Module (Rare Case)

That was all about the causing factors of the P0472 code. 

How Serious Is Code P0472 On 7.3L Powerstroke?

It’s not a serious error code to be highly concerned about. Still, it’s better to have it checked & solved by your or an expert technician. Remember, your check engine light will remain illuminated if you don’t solve this code. 

Meanwhile, if you’re having more severe problems, you won’t notice that due to the always-on check engine light. That’s why you should try solving any error code as soon as possible. Follow the next segment to know how to solve it. 

How to Solve P0472 Error Code On 7.3L Powerstroke?

As it’s mainly an exhaust pressure sensor problem, the solving procedure will be around that device. Without further ado, let’s get started: 

Check & Replace Exhaust Pressure Sensor Wires and Connectors

Start your inspection by checking the exhaust pressure sensor wires & connectors. The wires & connectors can wear out over time. Open the hood & conduct a thorough inspection. 

Check for burnt or corroded wires. Also, see if there’s any wire disconnected. The connectors should form a greenish look if they’ve burnt or faulty. 

After inspection, clean all the electrical connections (wires & connectors) with a light plastic brush & 91% rubbing alcohol. Consider replacing the faulty connections if needed. 

Check The Exhaust Pressure Sensor & Circuits

If cleaning/replacing the wires & connectors didn’t work out for you, check the EBP sensor & circuits. You’ll need a Digital Volt-Ohm Meter (DVOM) to test the sensor & circuits. 

After getting your DVOM, follow the steps mentioned below: 

  • Step 1: Take the 5V power supply circuit of the exhaust pressure sensor & measure the volts with the DVOM.
  • Step 2: See if there’s 5V available. If you see 12V instead of 5V, possibilities are – you’ve bad wirings or bad PCM. 

You can proceed to the next steps if you’re getting 5V in the power supply circuit. This time, you’ll have to test the 5V sensor signal circuit going to the sensor from the PCM. 

  • Step 1: Take the 5V sensor signal circuit & test it with the DVOM. 
  • Step 2: If you’re not getting 5V from the sensor, possibilities are – the sensor circuit or the PCM is faulty. 

If you find the sensor circuit & wires faulty, replace them & clear the error code. 

Replace The Exhaust Pressure Sensor 

If the code returns even after replacing wires & circuits, consider replacing the exhaust pressure sensor itself. Follow the steps mentioned below to replace the exhaust pressure sensor: 

  • Step 1: Remove the plastic fuel bowl cover with a 13mm deep well socket. 
  • Step 2: Remove all the electrical connectors of the EBP sensor. 
  • Step 3: Loosen the supporting upper exhaust pressure tube nut & remove it. You’ll need a 9/15” open wrench &⅝” crow’s foot open wrench. 
  • Step 4: Remove the remaining EBP tube with a ⅝” open-end wrench. 
  • Step 5: Finally, remove the exhaust back pressure sensor & replace it with a new one 
  • Step 6: Perform the previously mentioned task in a reverse manner & you’re all set  

After replacing the exhaust pressure sensor, clear the code with a scanner. See if the code returns after a couple of road tests. 

Replace The Powertrain Control Module 

If you still have the P0472 error code even after replacing the exhaust pressure sensor, suspect the PCM to be faulty. Hire a professional to inspect your truck & see if replacing the PCM is needed. 

You can’t & shouldn’t replace the PCM on your own if you’re not an expert. Leave this job to the expert & he will handle everything for you. 

How Much Does It Cost To Solve The Error Code P0472?

Depending on the replacement parts, solving the P0472 code can vary from truck to truck. Here is the price chart of the potential replacement parts: 

  • The Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Costs $30 to $60
  • The Powertrain Control Module Costs Around $500
  • Wirings, Connectors & Circuits Costs $100 to $500

Add another $75 to $150 per hour labor fees if you’re hiring professionals to do the solving/replacing tasks. 

Common Mistakes While Solving The P0472 Code

If you’re solving the error code on your own, try avoiding these common mistakes mentioned below: 

  • Replacing The EBP sensor without cleaning & replacing faulty electrical connections
  • Replacing the PCM without replacing the EBP sensor

Additional Comments To Consider Regarding The P0472 Code 

You may also get the P0471 & P0473 codes along with the P0472. Don’t worry about the other two codes; they will disappear on their own if you’ve done the proper solving of the P0472 code. 

Conclusion 

I hope this article was informative enough about the P0472 error code. Now you know everything (from symptoms to solve) about the error code. 

Decision yours – solve the error code on your own or hire someone to do the work for you. Expect to pay a hectic labor fee if you’re outsourcing the job.

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