P0473Generic code

P0473 Code: Exhaust Pressure Sensor High

The P0473 code indicates that the exhaust pressure sensor signal is above its maximum value. The main effects are a loss of power and degraded turbo control.

Severity
Medium
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$50 to $400
Difficulty
Medium
System
Emissions Control
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

On this page

What the P0473 code means

The exhaust back pressure (EBP) sensor measures the back pressure in the exhaust manifold. It is typical of turbo diesels with a variable geometry turbo and an exhaust pressure valve, such as the Ford Power Stroke and International engines.

The sensor gets a 5 V reference and a ground from the computer and sends back a signal between roughly 0.5 and 4.5 V. The P0473 code is a high signal, which is usually caused by an open circuit (a loose connector or a cut wire) or by an interrupted sensor ground.

The computer uses this pressure to control the turbo, the EGR and the exhaust pressure valve (which helps warm up the engine when cold). If the signal fails, the turbo and the EGR lose their reference and a loss of power usually follows. The tube that carries pressure to the sensor clogs with soot very often. Look up the sensor guide to see how it is tested.

To confirm it, measure the continuity of each wire between the component connector and the computer connector with the key off. It should be less than 1 ohm, and an infinite reading means the wire is open. If the wiring is good, measure the component itself: infinite resistance confirms it is open inside.

P0473 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Loss of power and degraded turbo control.
  • Emissions monitor incomplete, so the vehicle cannot pass inspection.
  • Loss of power or uneven running.

Likely causes of the P0473 code

  1. Connector loose or broken. The most frequent cause.
  2. Signal or ground wire cut, so the signal climbs up to the reference.
  3. Sensor open inside, with infinite resistance.
  4. Short to 5 V or 12 V from rubbing against another wire.

How to diagnose the P0473 code step by step

  1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what you expect.
  2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water or loose pins.
  3. Check the reference and ground with the key on (5 V, and less than 0.1 V of voltage drop on the ground).
  4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and see whether it changes with conditions.
  5. Do a wiggle test on the wiring.
  6. Check continuity to the computer.
  7. With the engine off, compare exhaust pressure and barometric pressure. They should match.
  8. Clean or replace the pressure tube from the manifold to the sensor, which often plugs with soot.

How to fix the P0473 code

  • Repair the connector or the wiring.
  • Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
  • Correct the real condition if there is one (a leak or a blockage).
  • Clear the codes and complete a drive cycle so the monitor runs.

Technical reference data

  • 5 V reference, ground and signal.
  • Engine off: atmospheric pressure.
  • Approximate values only: check the manufacturer data for your engine.

Brand-specific notes

The sensor tube is the first thing to check on diesels, because soot plugs it more often than the sensor fails.

P0473 on Ford

Very common on the Ford Power Stroke 6.0 and 7.3, where the sensor tube plugs with soot.

P0473 on International

Very common on International engines, where the sensor tube plugs with soot.

Frequently asked questions about P0473

Can I drive with a P0473 code?
With caution. A P0473 code can come with a loss of power, so avoid heavy loads until it is checked.
Do I have to replace the sensor?
Only if the tests confirm it. The connector and the wiring fail just as often as the sensor.
Will I pass the inspection with this code?
No. The check engine light being on, or the monitor being incomplete, keeps the vehicle from passing.
How much does it cost to fix P0473?
Roughly $50 to $400, depending on whether it is a clogged tube, a connector, wiring or the sensor itself.
What does the P0473 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code that means the exhaust pressure sensor is sending a signal above its maximum value, usually from an open circuit or a lost ground.
What is the most common cause of P0473?
A loose or broken connector. A cut signal or ground wire and a sensor that is open inside are the other usual causes.

Related codes

Questions about the P0473 code

There are no questions about this code yet. Tell us about your case: vehicle, symptoms and what you have already checked.