AutoCodes – Saturn – P1406 Saturn

P1406 Saturn Code - EGR Valve Pintle Position Circuit

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) determines that the EGR valve is stuck open if the actual Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) position and the learned closed EGR position vary by more than a predetermined value. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, Carbon blockage of the pintle. 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: P1406 Saturn indicates EGR Valve Pintle Position Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, Carbon blockage of the pintle.
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 13,649

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

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

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1406 Saturn Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) determines that the EGR valve is stuck open if the actual Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) position and the learned closed EGR position vary by more than a predetermined value. The PCM tests for a stuck valve when the desired EGR position is at 0%. The PCM commands the EGR valve to 100% during certain driving conditions in order to clear a possible restriction from the EGR valve if the PCM determines that the valve is stuck open.

OBDII Code P1406 Saturn - EGR Valve Pintle Position Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1406 Saturn Code - EGR Valve Pintle Position Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1406 Saturn?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve
Carbon blockage of the pintle

How to Fix the DTC P1406 Saturn?

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

The P1406 code means that the EGR valve is 10% of the expected position by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), usually caused by carbon built up n the EGR valve. Start by cleaning the EGR valve.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1406 Saturn 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.

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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.