Proper fuel and air combinations are required to properly operate any internal combustion. The DPFE sensor aids in measuring the volume of air entering the engine. Your car might have various issues if this sensor is not functioning properly.

If the DPFE sensor is not working properly, the EGR system may have problems. As a consequence, emissions and fuel efficiency may be improved. In rare circumstances, a damaged DPFE sensor might cause the engine to stall or operate abnormally. The best solution to these problems is to replace a faulty DPFE sensor.

This article will discuss the signs of a faulty DPFE sensor, its causes, and solutions. We will also pay the price if this component has to be replaced.

What is a DPFE Sensor?

A DPFE sensor (differential pressure feedback EGR) keeps track of your car’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. Emissions are decreased, and exhaust gases are recycled via the EGR system.

The pressure differential between the exhaust gases entering and leaving the EGR system is measured by the DPFE sensor. The engine control module (ECM) uses this data to check the EGR system’s functionality.

Two hoses are attached to this sensor, which is mounted on the EGR valve. The intake manifold is served by one hose, while the exhaust pipe is served by the other. The DPFE sensor monitors the pressure differential between these two hoses.

Too much exhaust gas is circulated if there is an excessive pressure differential. This may result in various concerns, including lower fuel efficiency, elevated emissions, and poor engine performance.

Do all cars have DPFE sensors?

Not all brands and types of automobiles have DPFE sensors, although they are becoming increasingly prevalent. DPFE sensors track the pressure differential between the atmosphere outside the car and the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) back into the engine.

The computer in the car uses this data to control how often exhaust gases are returned to the engine.

To help in lowering emissions, the EGR system pumps some of the exhaust gases back into the engine. The engine, however, may have issues if there is an excessive amount of exhaust gas recirculation. To guarantee that the right quantity of exhaust gas is recirculated, the DPFE sensor is used.

Even without a DPFE sensor, your car could still have an EGR valve. The EGR valve manages the recirculation of exhaust gases into the engine.

However, the computer will not be able to appropriately control the flow of exhaust gases without a DPFE sensor. This can cause issues with the engine. Check your owner’s handbook or contact your technician if you are unsure whether your car has a DPFE sensor.

When Does a DPFE Sensor Go Bad?

There are several signs that your DPFE sensor is malfunctioning. These consist of the following:

1. The Check Engine Light Is On

A check engine light that is lit is one of the first signs of a DPFE sensor issue. The ECM frequently sets a diagnostic trouble code when it notices an issue with the DPFE sensor (DTC). You may identify the issue by reading this code using a scan tool.

2. Rough Idle

Rough idle is another typical sign of a faulty DPFE sensor. The pressure differential between the exhaust gases entering and leaving the EGR system is monitored by the DPFE sensor. The engine may run rough if this pressure differential is too great.

3. Decreased Fuel Economy

The engine may operate less efficiently if the DPFE sensor in your car is broken. The fuel economy may suffer as a result of this. You could sometimes notice a loss of 1-2 miles per gallon.

4. Stalling

An unreliable DPFE sensor may sometimes cause the engine to stall. The main culprit here is often a significant pressure differential between the exhaust gases entering and exiting the EGR system. The engine may stall if this pressure differential is too great.

How are DPFE sensor issues diagnosed?

You must attach a diagnostic tool to the car’s computer to identify DPFE sensor issues. Following that, you may search for any codes about the DPFE sensor. Before the sensor can be changed, any codes that may be present must be resolved.

The DPFE sensor may sometimes need to be cleaned before being replaced. A brush and a unique cleaning solution may be used for this. To avoid damaging the sensor, be sure to carefully follow the instructions.

After the sensor has been repaired or cleaned, you need to reset the computer’s error codes and give the car a test drive. This will enable you to confirm that the issue has been resolved. You may need to have the computer system of the car checked for other issues if the problem persists.

How to Use an OBD-II Scanner to Diagnose DPFE Sensor Issues?

You must connect an OBD-II scanner to the car’s computer to identify DPFE sensor issues. Following that, you may search for any codes about the DPFE sensor. Before the sensor may be changed, any codes that may be present must be resolved.

After the sensor has been repaired or cleaned, you need to reset the computer’s error codes and give the car a test drive. This will enable you to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

If the issue continues, you may be required to have the car’s computer system evaluated for additional problems.

How Can DPFE Sensor Issues Be Diagnosed Without a Scanner?

Diagnose DPFE sensor issues even if you do not have an OBD-II scanner. The sensor’s power supply fuse should be checked first. The sensor cannot be tested if blown; a new fuse must be installed first.

After changing the fuse, use a multimeter to test the sensor. Touch the leads to the sensor’s terminals while the multimeter is set to measure resistance. The measurement must fall in the range of 0.5 and 2 ohms. The sensor must be changed if it is not.

After the sensor has been repaired or cleaned, you need to reset the computer’s error codes and give the car a test drive.

This will enable you to confirm that the issue has been resolved. If the issue continues, you may be required to have the vehicle’s computer system evaluated for additional problems.

Can I Replace the DPFE Sensor on My Own?

The DPFE sensor may be changed by yourself, yes. It is important to remember that changing the sensor will not make things better if the sensor is not the cause of the issue. If the issue still exists after replacing the sensor, you may also need to have the car’s computer system inspected for further problems.

Why Would a Replacement DPFE Sensor Be Necessary?

The DPFE sensor may need a replacement for several reasons. One explanation is if it is not reading properly. As a result, the car can operate inefficiently and emit more pollutants than required.

A broken or clogged sensor is another possibility. Performance issues with the car may result from this.

What Equipment Is Required to Replace a DPFE Sensor?

You will need a few tools to replace the DPFE sensor. A new sensor, a ratchet, and a socket wrench are required. If the sensor has to be cleaned before being replaced, you may also require a cleaning solution and brush.

How do I replace the DPFE sensor?

Track down the DPFE sensor. Normally, it is near the engine on the firewall.
The sensor’s electrical connection should be disconnected.
Bolts holding the sensor in place should be removed.
Check the sensor for damage by removing it. You will need to buy a replacement if it is damaged.
You may attempt cleaning the sensor with a specific solution and brush if it is not damaged. To avoid damaging the sensor, carefully follow the instructions.
Reconnect the electrical connection and bolt the sensor into place once it has been changed or cleaned.
Take the car for a test drive after clearing any remaining computer codes. This will enable you to confirm that the issue has been resolved. If the problems continue, you may need to have the computer system of the car checked for other issues.

What Takes Place When a DPFE Sensor Fails?

Numerous issues may arise if a DPFE sensor malfunctions. One issue is that the car will operate inefficiently and emit more emissions than is required.

The possibility of the car entering limp mode is another issue. This implies that the engine can only operate at a certain pace. To prevent the engine from being harmed, this is done.

Finally, the check engine light may illuminate if the DPFE sensor malfunctions. If this occurs, you must have the car’s computer system inspected for any other problems.

FAQs

What Is Limp Mode?

The engine management system of your automobile has a function called “limp mode” that is intended to reduce the harm an engine failure may do.

The computer in the automobile will automatically go into limp mode when there is an engine failure, which reduces the amount of power the engine can generate. This enables the automobile to be driven to a safe area while preventing additional engine damage.

Typically, a sensor that identifies an engine failure initiates the limp mode. The car’s computer will receive a signal from the sensor and activate the limp mode.

Knock sensors, camshaft position sensors, or crankshaft position sensors are just a few of the several sensor types that might activate the limp mode.

Other factors, such as low coolant level, excessive engine temperature, and low oil pressure, may also trigger the limp mode. The car’s computer will put the engine in limp mode if any of these things are found, protecting it.

The car’s engine can only generate a certain power level once the limp mode is engaged. The automobile will typically not be able to accelerate quickly enough or attain its peak speed due to this power loss. There are times when the automobile could even stall.

How Long Are DPFE Sensors Good For?

A DPFE sensor typically lasts a vehicle’s lifetime, but some factors, including exposure to extreme heat or vibration, might reduce its longevity when a DPFE sensor malfunctions, an obstructed filter or an electrical issue is often to blame.

How Can DPFE Sensor Damage Be Prevented?

Ensure you routinely clean your engine’s air filter and steer clear of driving in dusty or muddy situations to prevent DPFE sensor damage.

Consider changing your car’s cabin air filter more regularly if you reside in a pollen-heavy location. When working on your engine, be cautious not to bump or drop the DPFE sensor.

Can I Drive Without a DPFE Sensor?

Yes, you may still drive without a DPFE sensor, but your car cannot control exhaust gas recirculation effectively. This could lead to higher emissions and worsened fuel economy.

Driving without a DPFE sensor may cause the check engine light to come on. If your car has one, it is preferable to swap out the DPFE sensor.

Can a Defective DPFE Sensor Harm My Car?

If a faulty DPFE sensor is not changed quickly, it might harm your automobile. Driving without a DPFE sensor might cause your engine to work too hard, resulting in higher pollutants and less efficient fuel use.

Your engine may run lean due to a blocked DPFE filter, which might harm the catalytic converter. As a result, swapping out a damaged DPFE sensor as soon as feasible is critical.

What Is the Price of a New DPFE Sensor?

The price to replace a DPFE sensor varies depending on the make & model of your car. A replacement DPFE sensor can cost you anything from $50 to $200.

Conclusion

A DPFE sensor device keeps track of your car’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. Emissions are decreased, and exhaust gases are recycled via the EGR system.

The EGR system may have issues if the DPFE sensor is malfunctioning. Increased emissions and poor fuel efficiency may result from this. It may sometimes also cause the engine to stall or run rough. The most effective solution to these issues is often to replace a damaged DPFE sensor.

Bad DPFE Sensor Symptoms (What Is It, Causes, Fixes & Replacement Cost)