P0470 — Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit — 6.0 Power Stroke
Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit fault on the 6.0L Power Stroke; PCM detects an electrical fault in the EBP sensor circuit used for VGT control.
What it means
Generic definition: The PCM has detected a fault in the exhaust back pressure (EBP) sensor circuit. On the 6.0L Power Stroke the EBP sensor reads exhaust manifold pressure through a steel tube and is used for VGT control.1
Most likely causes
- EBP sensor internal failure or wiring/connector fault (open/short, corrosion) causing a circuit fault. — The PCM flags a circuit fault when the EBP sensor or its wiring is electrically defective. Typical on this platform are wiring/connector faults or a failed sensor.1
- EBP sensor signal circuit short to voltage or ground. — A short in the sensor signal or reference wiring can pull the circuit out of range and set a circuit fault.1
- PCM detection of EBP circuit malfunction due to intermittent connection. — Intermittent connector contact or chafed harness can cause the PCM to detect a circuit fault.1
How to diagnose
- Verify code and freeze frame; inspect EBP sensor connector for corrosion, oil, or loose pins.
- Check EBP sensor reference voltage and signal wiring for opens/shorts to ground or voltage per wiring diagram; repair as needed.
- Inspect the steel EBP tube for damage and ensure the sensor is properly seated; note that a soot-clogged tube more often sets P0471, not P0470.
- If wiring tests good, monitor EBP sensor voltage key-on engine-off (should match barometric pressure) and with engine running; replace sensor if electrical values are out of spec.
Parts and tools you may need
- Digital multimeter
- Wiring diagram
- EBP sensor
- Dielectric grease
Tools you’ll need
- digital multimeter — Checks reference voltage, signal voltage, and continuity of the EBP sensor circuit to identify opens, shorts, or out-of-spec readings.
- OBD-II scan tool — Reads P0470, freeze frame data, and live EBP sensor voltage/PID to confirm circuit fault and monitor sensor behavior.
- wiring repair kit — Repairs corroded or damaged EBP sensor connector pins and wiring found during inspection.
- inspection mirror — Allows visual check of the EBP sensor and steel tube in the tight 6.0L engine bay for damage, seating, and corrosion.
Rough cost and difficulty
| Likely repair | Parts | Shop labor | Who usually does it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wiring or connector repair | $10–$100 | 1–4 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| Exhaust backpressure sensor | $60–$200 | 0.5–1.5 hrs | Easy DIY |
Typical US independent-shop figures; labor runs about $120–$180 per hour (dealers charge more). Confirm the diagnosis before buying parts.
When to see a pro
If wiring faults are found in the engine bay harness or PCM connector, or if VGT control issues persist after EBP circuit repair, have a qualified diesel technician diagnose the VGT system and PCM inputs.
Check for recalls
Recalls are tied to your truck’s VIN, so check yours directly: enter the VIN at NHTSA’s recall lookup. Open safety recalls are repaired free at a dealer.
Sources
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