What is P0470 Code On 6.0 & 7.3 Powerstroke & How To Fix?

Whether you’re using a 6.0L or 7.3L, you’ll certainly get some DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) from the PCM. The P0470 is one of these diagnostic trouble codes. 

If you’re getting the code P0470 & don’t know how it came, this article is for you. With this article, you’ll know everything from the symptoms to the fixing methods of this error code. 

What is P0470 Code On 6.0 & 7.3 Powerstroke

What Does P0470 Code Means On 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke? 

P0470 is one of the diagnostic trouble codes of the Ford 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke. Not only these two models, other nozzle turbochargers powered vehicles can also have this DTC. By definition, the P0470 code refers to Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction. 

The EBP (Exhaust Back Pressure) sensor measures pressures between the engine’s exhaust & the turbine wheel of the VGT/Traditional Turbocharger. This EBP helps PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with controlling the EPR (Exhaust Pressure Regulator) for greater engine performance. 

When the PCM is unable to communicate to the EBP sensor due to electrical issues, it generates the error code P0470. Besides this code, the PCM may generate a second error code P0471 depending on the lasting period of the first code.  

Symptoms Of Getting The P0470 Code On A Ford 6.0 & 7.3

You’ll notice definite symptoms if you’re getting the P0470 code on 6.0 or 7.3L Powerstroke. Expect to have the code if your truck is having the following issues: 

  1. Check Engine Light (CEL) is Turned On
  2. Low or No Boost Issue
  3. Poor Fuel Economy 
  4. Dramatically Reduced Performance
  5. Cranking But No Start Issue 

Overall, you won’t be very happy with your truck from a driving & fuel consumption perspective. 

The Causing Factors Of The Error Code P0470

The DTC P0470 can occur due to several reasons. Here are some of the common causing factors of the error code P0470:

  1. Blockage In Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor
  2. Blockage in EBP Sensor Tube (Coming From The Engine Manifold)
  3. Exhaust Gas Air Inlet, Recirculation System, or Charge Air Leaks
  4. Faulty Powertrain Control Module ( Rare Case)

How Serious Is Code P0470 On a Powerstroke (6.0L & 7.3L) ?

It’s a serious code considering it directly affects the engine performance. If you let the code stay for a longer period, it’s possible to have severe engine damages in the future. 

That’s why it will be the best if you take your time inspecting & fixing this error code. The Following segment of this article will help you with the fixing procedure. 

How to Solve P0470 Error Code On 6.0 & 7.3L Powerstroke?

P0470 is a very easy-to-solve code no matter what Ford model you own. However, you will need the following equipment to perform the diagnostic process: 

  • 5/8 inch Wrench & 1-inch Socket, 
  • 9/16 inch Open End Wrench & Wire Stripper/Crimper
  • OBD-II Scanner 

Considering you’re ready with your equipment, let’s get started with the diagnostic process: 

Check Wirings & Connectors

First thing first, check the wirings related to the exhaust back pressure sensor. Don’t forget to check the connectors as well while inspecting the wirings. 

Check for damaged, burnt, or carboned wires & connectors. If you find them through your visual inspection, consider replacing the damaged wirings or connectors. 

Finally, reset the code using any OBD-II Scanner & go for a test driving session. If the code doesn’t appear, it was a problem with the wirings. If it does return, follow the next diagnostic part. 

Check Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor

If every wire & connector seems to be okay, focus on the main suspect – The exhaust Back Pressure Sensor or EBP Sensor. To do anything with the EBP sensor, you’ve to detach it first. 

Before that, you’ve to know the EBP sensor locations of Ford 6.0L & 7.3L Engine. Here are they: 

  • 6.0L EBP Sensor Location: The sensor is located on the driver side of the engine. You’ll find it looking at the top of a tube coming from the exhaust. 
  • 7.3L EBP Sensor Location: The sensor is located near the engine in front of the HPOP (High-Pressure Oil Pump).

Note: Accessing the 6.0L EBP sensor is quite simple compared to the 7.3L Powerstroke. Additionally, you’ll have to remove a plastic engine cover to gain access to the EBP sensor of the Ford 7.3L. 

As you already know the locations & how to access the EBP sensor, it’s time for a step by step guide of disabling it: 

Step 1: Access the EBP sensor. 

Step 2: Gently disconnect the electrical connector from the EBP sensor. 

Step 3: Both 6.0L & 7.3L have EBP sensors of 1-inch diameter. Take your 1-inch socket & cover the EBP sensor with it. 

Step 4: To support the socket & prevent the sensor from damaging, use the 9/16 inch open-ended wrench. 

Step 5: Release the EBP Sensor. 

Finally, you’ve got your EBP sensor in hand. Inspect it thoroughly & check for dirt & carbon blockages. You can clean the EBP sensor using an air compressor. 

After cleaning the EBP Sensor:

  1. Reinstall it & clear the code with a scanner.
  2. Check if the code still returns or not.
  3. If it reappears, consider replacing the EBP sensor with a new one. 

Check Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor Tube

Considering you’ve already detached & repaired/replaced the EBP sensor & still getting the P0470 error code, it’s time to check the EBP sensor tube. 

Follow the next steps by steps guide for disabling the EBP sensor tube:

Step 1: The EBPS tube holds the EBP sensor at the top; remove it first. 

Step 2: Use the 5/8 inch wrench to loosen the EBP sensor tube. In the meantime, you’ve to hold the top nut with a 9/16 inch open-ended wrench.  

Step 3: The other end of the tube connects to the front of the passenger side of the engine. Finally, remove it using your hand & the 5/8 inch wrench. 

After detaching the EBPS tube:

  1. Inspect the tube just like you did with the EBP sensor.
  2. Use an air-compressed blower to clean out the tube.
  3. If you find heavy dirt or any damages to the tube, replace it with a new one. 

Replace Your Powertrain Control Module

Hopefully, you’ve fixed your error code P0740 by implementing the three processes mentioned above. If you’re still getting the code, it’s time to replace the powertrain control module. 

Facts: Why haven’t I suggested replacing the PCM first? Because you can’t say you have a faulty PCM until you’ve already replaced the EBP sensor. 

How Much Does It Cost To Solve The Error Code P0470?

The cost of solving the error code P0470 depends on the replacement parts you’re getting. You’ll understand the estimated costing better following the next replacement price chart: 

  • EBP Sensor Tube Costs $15 to $20 
  • EBP Sensor Costs $30 to $70
  • Wirings Cost More Than $50
  • 6.0L & 7.3L PCM Costs $500 to $800

Also, don’t forget to add $75 to $150 per hour labor cost if you’re getting this work done from an auto store. 

Common Mistakes While Solving The P0470 Code

You’ll make mistakes if you’re slightly unmindful with any of the diagnostic processes mentioned in this article. Consider avoiding these common mistakes mentioned below: 

  1. Don’t Replace Your PCM Before Testing & Replacing Every Possible Part Causing The DTC. 
  2. Be Careful Of Removing The EBP Sensor & Don’t Forget To Use The 9/16 inch Open Ended Wrench.

You’ll be doing far better than the majority just by avoiding these common & easy-to-avoid mistakes. 

Additional Comments To Consider Regarding The P0470 Code 

This error code prevents the engine from reaching its full potential. To have a sound driving experience, consider fixing the error code P0470 as soon as possible. 

Conclusion 

I hope this article was informative enough to know the DTC P0470 thoroughly. Now you can easily fix this code using simple equipment within an hour or so.  

If you want to play it safe without being involved, consider getting expert help. Though they will be charging you a high labor fee, you’ll have your peace of mind.

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