AutoCodes – Generic – P0472

P0472 Code - Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Back Pressure (EBP) sensor is a variable capacitance sensor that, when supplied with a 5-volt reference signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM), produces a linear analog voltage signal that indicates pressure. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor, Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0472 indicates Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor, Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 28,758

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 19, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0472 Description

The Exhaust Back Pressure (EBP) sensor is a variable capacitance sensor that, when supplied with a 5-volt reference signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM), produces a linear analog voltage signal that indicates pressure.
The EBP sensor's primary function is to measure exhaust back pressure so that the ECM can control the exhaust back pressure regulator (EPR) when needed.

OBDII Code P0472 - Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low - AutoCodes.com — P0472 Code - Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0472?

Faulty Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor
Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0472?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Replacing the exhaust back pressure usually takes care of the problem

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0472 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0472 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0472 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P0472 Audi — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low
P0472 Dodge — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low
P0472 Ford — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low
P0472 Mercedes-Benz — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low
P0472 Volkswagen — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Low

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.