AutoCodesFord – P1401 2001 Ford Focus

P1401 2001 Ford Focus Code - DPFE Sensor Circuit High

Quick Answer

The purpose of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system on your engine is to limit oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. Common causes include Faulty Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic (DPFE) sensor, Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic sensor harness is open or shorted, Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic 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
P1401 2001 Ford Focus indicates DPFE Sensor Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic (DPFE) sensor, Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic sensor harness is open or shorted, Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic 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 29,942
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 04, 2022
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Code P1401 2001 Ford Focus Description

The purpose of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system on your engine is to limit oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. This is done by redirecting small amounts of exhaust gas back through the upper intake to get mixed in with the air/fuel charge. The resultant diluted air/fuel mixture (i.e., less oxygen per cubic foot) burns cooler and combustion chamber temperatures are reduced accordingly, thereby lowering NOx emissions.
The Ford DPFE/EGR system is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The system employs an EGR Valve, an Electronic Vacuum Regulator (EVR), and a Delta Pressure Feedback EGR sensor (DPFE).
The DPFE Sensor measures EGR flow across an orifice located inside the special EGR Tube. The orifice is positioned between two hose ports coming off the tube which are connected to the DPFE sensor with special heat-resistant hoses. When the EGR Valve is open, a pressure differential is created across the orifice (intake manifold pressure vs. exhaust pressure). By design, this difference in pressure is measured by the DPFE sensor in terms of voltage. The DPFE voltage signal output to the PCM is directly proportional to the flow of exhaust gas entering the intake manifold.
OBDII Code P1401 2001 Ford Focus  - DPFE Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P1401 2001 Ford Focus Code - DPFE Sensor Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1401 2001 Ford Focus ?

  • Faulty Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic (DPFE) sensor
  • Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Damaged Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1401 2001 Ford Focus ?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1401 2001 Ford Focus 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 P1401 2001 Ford Focus code?

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1401 2001 Ford Focus Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus related to the DPFE sensor circuit high?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine hesitation, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.

2. What does the DPFE sensor do in a 2001 Ford Focus and how does it relate to code P1401?

- The DPFE (Differential Pressure Feedback EGR) sensor measures the flow of exhaust gas recirculation. Code P1401 indicates a high voltage reading in the DPFE sensor circuit, signaling a potential issue with EGR flow.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- Common causes include a faulty DPFE sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the DPFE sensor circuit, or a blocked EGR system.

4. How can I diagnose and repair OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- Start by inspecting the DPFE sensor and its connections for any visible damage or corrosion. Test the sensor's voltage output using a multimeter. If necessary, replace the DPFE sensor and clear the trouble code.

5. Can I drive my 2001 Ford Focus with OBDII code P1401 related to the DPFE sensor circuit high?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code as it can lead to poor engine performance and potential long-term damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- The cost can vary depending on the root cause of the issue. Replacing a DPFE sensor may cost between $50 to $200, while professional labor fees can add to the total repair cost.

7. Can I reset the OBDII code P1401 on my 2001 Ford Focus without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the trouble code using an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to address the root cause to prevent the issue from recurring and potentially causing further damage to the vehicle.

8. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking and cleaning the EGR system components, can help prevent issues like a high DPFE sensor circuit voltage. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance can also help catch potential problems early.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- The repair time can vary based on the specific cause of the issue and your level of experience. Replacing a DPFE sensor typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1401 on a 2001 Ford Focus?

- Yes, if you have basic mechanical skills and the necessary tools, you can often diagnose and repair this issue yourself by following online guides or repair manuals specific to your vehicle.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1401 2001 Ford Focus OBDII Code

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