AutoCodes – Generic – P0487

P0487 Code - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open

Quick Answer

This fault code is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when a malfunction is detected in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Circuit. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0487 indicates Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 22,659

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 15, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0487 Description

This fault code is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when a malfunction is detected in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Circuit. The purpose of the EGR throttle is to create a pressure differential between the exhaust manifold and the intake manifold. Without this pressure differential, there would be no flow of exhaust gases under certain operating conditions or on certain engines such as compression ignition engines or engines that operate under stratified conditions.

OBDII Code P0487 - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open - AutoCodes.com — P0487 Code - Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0487?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0487?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0487 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 P0487 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P0487 Audi — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open
P0487 Volkswagen — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit 'A' Open

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.