What Is P0475 Code on 7.3L Powerstroke & How to Fix It?
If you’re using a 7.3L Powerstroke for a while, you should be familiar with a bunch of DTCs or Diagnostic Trouble Codes. The P0475 is one of these trouble codes & it’s related to the Exhaust Back Pressure Valve.
If you’re getting the DTC P0475 & don’t know what to do with it, this article is for you. In this article, I’ve covered everything from the definition to the solution of this error code.
What Does the P0475 Code Mean on a 7.3L Powerstroke?
P0475 is one of the DTCs of Ford 7.3L Powerstroke. By definition, the P0475 trouble code refers to Exhaust Back Pressure Control Valve Malfunction.
The EBPV (Exhaust Back Pressure Valve) helps generate heat in the form of BP to assist cold start warm-up. This warming device plays an important role in keeping the engine okay in the cold/snow areas.
When the Powertrain Control Module or ECM detects any kind of problem with the EBPV, it generates the error code P0475. This problem can be anything from bad wirings to damaged valve sensors.
Symptoms Of Getting The P0475 Code On A 7.3L Powerstroke
Like other DTCs of 7.3L engine, P0475 also comes with some common symptoms. Expect to have this error code if you’re noticing the following symptoms mentioned below:
- CEL (Check Engine Light) is Turned On
- Lack Of Engine Power
- Irregular Revolution Per Minute or RPM
- Takes Unexpectedly More Time For Cold Engine Warm-Up
- Engine Won’t Start At All (Rare Scenario)
It’s possible not to get the warning or check engine light even after getting this error code. In that case, you’ll have to rely on the scanner & other symptoms to figure out this error code.
Read Also: What Is P1247 code on 7.3 Powerstroke: How To Fix?
The Causing Factors Of The P0475 Error Code
The exhaust back pressure control valve can malfunction for various reasons. Here are some of the common causing factors of the error code P0475:
- Faulty Wirings of PCM & Exhaust Pressure Control Solenoid
- Damaged Exhaust Back Pressure Valve
- EBPV Harness is Shorted or Open
- Poor Electrical Connection of the EBPV
- Faulty Powertrain Control Module (Rare Scenario)
Out of these five causes, a damaged exhaust back pressure valve is the most common reason for getting this error code.
How Serious Is the P0475 Code On a 7.3L Powerstroke?
P0475 is moderately serious on 7.3L Powerstroke. Though this code won’t instantly kill your engine, it will continuously damage it.
That’s why it’s an ideal decision to fix this & all other error codes when they remain in the primary stage.
Read Also: What is P2291 Code On 6.7 Powerstroke & How To Fix?
How to Solve P0475 Error Code On 7.3L Powerstroke?
You can solve the error code on your own with proper equipment. Make sure you have the equipment mentioned below:
- Scanner
- Electrical Contact Cleaner Or 91% Rubbing Alcohol
- DVOM or Digital Volt/Ohm Meter
- Test Light Bulb
Considering you’ve got your equipment in place, let’s get started with troubleshooting methods:
01. Check The Technical Service Bulletin
Before investing your valuable time & money, check if your manufacturer is running a recall campaign for the malfunctioning exhaust back pressure control valve.
After checking the TSB (Technical Service Bulletin), if you find any ongoing program related to this error code – congratulations. Otherwise, proceed to the methods mentioned below.
02. Check Wirings & Connectors The Solenoid
Firstly, locate your exhaust back pressure valve. You should find it after checking the front part of the turbo pedestal. Found it? Great! Now it’s time for a visual inspection of the wirings.
- Wirings: Check if there are any damaged wirings. Look for burnt wires & melted plastic (the plastic part of wires)
- Connectors: Look for unusual colored(greenish) connectors & see if there are any burns or corrosion.
How To Fix: Clean the terminals using an electrical contact cleaner. If you don’t have it, you can use 91% rubbing alcohol to do the job.
Caution: Make sure terminals are dried properly before operating the cleaning task. Besides, don’t forget to use a dielectric silicone element to put terminals into contact.
Lastly, use the scanner to reset the error code. If it doesn’t return, your wiring & connectors are faulty. If it does return, proceed to the following diagnostic methods.
03. Check the EBPV Power Supply Circuit
Your pressure valve power supply should carry 12V power. To check whether it’s okay or not, put a test bulb & see if it lights up.
The test bulb must be connected with the red terminal (12V battery’s positive part) & the ground circuit.
Scenario 1:
If the bulb doesn’t light up, you are having a problem with the circuit. Consider replacing the power supply circuit if that’s the case.
Scenario 2:
If it lights up & flickers while shaking the harness, you’re having a problem with the wirings. Re-check & replace the wirings to solve the code.
04. Check the Circuit of the Solenoid
You can check your power supply circuit within two steps using the volt-ohm meter. Follow these steps below:
- Step 1: Detach the wire connecting the harness with the pressure control solenoid. (There are two wires in the EBPV)
- Step 2: Use the DVOM meter & check if the solenoid is open or shorted.
If you find your solenoid is open or shorted, consider replacing the solenoid & this error code should be solved.
05. Check & Replace Your PCM
If nothing mentioned above seems to be working, suspect the PCM to be faulty or damaged. Get expert help for replacing or re-inspecting the total condition of your truck.
Read Also: 5 Symptoms To Detect A Weak Fuel Pump On 6.0 Powerstroke
How Much Does It Cost To Solve The P0475 Error Code?
The fixing cost of this error code varies on which part/s you’ve to replace while conducting the solving operation. For your clearer understanding, here is the replacements price list:
- Electrical Contact Cleaner Costs $5 to $10
- Wirings & Connectors Costs $100 to $1000
- Exhaust Back Pressure Control Valve Costs $30 to $40
- The PCM Costs Around $500
Please remember that you’ll have to count an extra $75 to $150 per hour if you’re getting this fix done from an auto store.
Read Also: 5 Symptoms To Detect CP4 Failure On 6.7 Powerstroke Engine
Common Mistakes While Solving The P0475 Code
Whether you’re a beginner or moderately knowledgeable with the Ford 7.3L engine, you may commit mistakes while solving the P0475. Consider avoiding these common mistakes mentioned below:
- Not Checking TSB Before Doing Anything With The Engine
- Not Knowing The Correct Way Of Using Digital Volt/Ohm Meter
Additional Comments To Consider Regarding The P0475 Code
It’s common & possible to fix the error code P0475 by any individual. Still, if you find yourself in a challenging situation while fixing – don’t hesitate to get expert technician help from your nearby auto shop.
Conclusion
I hope this article was informative enough to satisfy all of your queries regarding the DTC P0475. Now you can find & replace the faulty components to fix the code.
Make sure to have a scanner & volt-ohm meter at home for troubleshooting error codes like P0475. If you don’t have them, consider borrowing from your nearby auto shop if needed.
Read Also: What Is P1670 code on 7.3 Powerstroke: How To Fix?
