P0473 High input of the exhaust pressure sensor

P0473 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

The P0473 code indicates that the exhaust gas pressure sensor has a high input signal.

What does the fault code mean P0473?

Trouble code P0473 indicates a high exhaust gas pressure sensor input signal. This means that the engine management system has detected unusually high voltage in the exhaust gas pressure sensor circuit. This code is often associated with vehicles equipped with diesel or turbocharged engines. Error codes may also appear along with this code. P0471 и P0472.

Possible reasons

Some possible reasons for the P0473 trouble code:

• Exhaust gas pressure sensor malfunction: The most common and obvious source of the problem is a malfunction of the exhaust gas pressure sensor itself. This may be caused by wear, damage, or malfunction of the sensor.
• Electrical circuit problems: Opens, corrosion, or damage in the electrical circuit connecting the exhaust gas pressure sensor to the engine control module (PCM) may result in incorrect readings or no signal from the sensor.
• Problems with the exhaust system: Insufficient or incorrect exhaust flow, caused by a blockage or leak in the exhaust system, for example, can also cause code P0473 to appear.
• Turbo problems: On some turbocharged vehicles, there are exhaust-related components that can cause the P0473 code if they are faulty or not operating properly.
• PCM software problems: Sometimes incorrect engine control module (PCM) software or a malfunction can cause the exhaust gas pressure to be detected incorrectly and cause the P0473 code to appear.
• Mechanical damage: Mechanical damage or deformation in the exhaust system, such as leaks or damaged pipes, can also cause the P0473 code.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0473?

Symptoms for DTC P0473 may vary depending on the specific vehicle and other factors:

• Increased amount of black smoke from the exhaust pipe: If the problem is due to insufficient exhaust pressure, this may result in an increased amount of black smoke being emitted from the exhaust system.
• Loss of engine power: A malfunction in the exhaust system may result in reduced engine power or poorer performance during acceleration.
• Unstable engine performance: If the exhaust system malfunctions, engine instability may occur, including uneven operation or even cylinder shutdown.
• The appearance of errors on the instrument panel: If a problem with exhaust gas pressure is detected, the engine management system may activate the “Check Engine” light on the instrument panel and store the P0473 error code in the PCM memory.
• Unusual sounds: If the exhaust system is damaged or leaking, unusual sounds such as a whistling sound or hissing sound may occur, especially when the engine speed increases.

How to diagnose a fault code P0473?

To diagnose DTC P0473, you can do the following:

1. Checking the connection of the exhaust gas pressure sensor: Check the connections to the exhaust pressure sensor and make sure the connections are secure and not damaged.
2. Checking electrical connections and wiring: Check the condition of the electrical wires, connections and connectors leading to the exhaust gas pressure sensor. Make sure they have no visible damage, corrosion or breaks.
3. Using the Diagnostic Scanner: Connect a scan tool to the OBD-II port and perform an engine management system scan for more information about the P0473 code and other possible trouble codes.
4. Checking the exhaust gas pressure sensor: Using a multimeter, check the resistance and voltage of the exhaust pressure sensor according to the manufacturer's technical documentation. If the sensor fails, replace it.
5. Checking the exhaust system: Check the condition and integrity of the entire exhaust system, including the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter and exhaust pipes.
6. PCM Software Check: If necessary, update the PCM software or perform an adaptive engine management system reset.
7. Additional tests: If necessary, perform additional tests, such as checking for vacuum leaks in the exhaust system or checking the operation of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0473, the following errors may occur:

• Skip checking electrical connections: Some technicians may neglect to check the condition of electrical connections and wiring, which may result in an incomplete diagnosis of the problem.
• Faulty sensor measurements: Incorrect measurements of voltage or resistance of the exhaust gas pressure sensor may lead to misdiagnosis and replacement of a working part.
• Skip exhaust system check: Some technicians may neglect to check other exhaust system components, such as the exhaust manifold, tail pipes, or catalytic converter, which may result in missing important causes of the problem.
• Skip PCM Software Check: Faults in the PCM software may be the cause of the P0473 code, however, some technicians may skip this diagnostic step.
• Incorrect interpretation of scanner data: Incorrect interpretation of data received from the diagnostic scanner may lead to incorrect diagnosis and repair.

To avoid these errors, it is important to follow the manufacturer's diagnostic procedures and carefully check all components and parameters associated with the P0473 trouble code.

How serious is the fault code? P0473?

Trouble code P0473 indicates problems with the exhaust gas pressure sensor, which is typically used in diesel or turbocharged engines. Although this is not a critical problem, it can cause the engine to malfunction and reduce performance. Incorrect reading of exhaust gas pressure may also cause improper control of the fuel injection system or turbo boost level.

Although a vehicle with code P0473 may continue to drive, it is recommended that the problem be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and engine problems. If this code occurs, it is recommended that you contact a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0473?

Troubleshooting DTC P0473 may require the following:

1. Replacing the exhaust gas pressure sensor: If the exhaust gas pressure sensor does not function properly, it must be replaced. To do this, use an original or high-quality similar spare part.
2. Checking and cleaning electrical connections: The wiring and electrical connections associated with the exhaust gas pressure sensor should be inspected for damage, corrosion, or breaks. If necessary, they must be cleaned or replaced.
3. Exhaust system diagnostics: Checking other exhaust system components such as the catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, and tailpipes may be necessary to detect other potential problems.
4. PCM Software Check: In some cases, the problem may be related to the PCM software. In this case, reprogramming or software update may be required.
5. Thorough diagnosis: It is important to conduct a thorough diagnosis using diagnostic equipment to determine the exact cause of the P0473 code and perform the appropriate repairs.

It is recommended that you contact an experienced auto mechanic or service center for diagnosis and repair, especially if you are not confident in your auto repair skills.

P0473 Exhaust Pressure Sensor "A" Circuit High 🟢 Trouble Code Symptoms Causes Solutions

P0473 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0473 is related to the exhaust gas pressure sensor and can be common to different brands of cars, code decoding for some well-known brands:

• BMW: Problem with exhaust gas pressure sensor.
• Ford: Exhaust gas pressure sensor input is high.
• Chevrolet: Exhaust gas pressure sensor circuit malfunction.
• Volkswagen (VW): Exhaust gas pressure sensor voltage high.
• Toyota: Problem with exhaust gas pressure sensor - high signal level.

These are only general interpretations, and for each specific model and year of manufacture of the car there may be slight differences in the decoding of the code. It is recommended that you consult the service manual for the specific make and model of your vehicle for more accurate information about the P0473 trouble code.