Diesel Trouble Codes

P0471 — Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance — 6.0 Power Stroke

P0471 on the 6.0L Power Stroke means the PCM sees the Exhaust Back Pressure (EBP) sensor signal outside the expected range/performance. The EBP sensor feeds…

Updated October 15, 2026

What it means

Generic definition: The exhaust pressure sensor A signal is outside the expected range or performance. Platform note: On the 6.0L P0471 is very often a soot-clogged EBP sensor tube or a sensor that reads wrong at key-on (EBP should match barometric pressure engine-off); bad EBP readings also upset VGT control.11

Most likely causes

  1. Soot-clogged EBP sensor tube causing incorrect pressure reading — The EBP sensor reads exhaust manifold pressure through a steel tube that commonly clogs with soot, leading to a range/performance fault and incorrect VGT control input.12
  2. EBP sensor reading incorrect at key-on/engine-off — With the engine off the EBP sensor should match barometric pressure. A sensor that reads wrong at key-on sets range/performance and can confuse VGT control.1
  3. EBP sensor electrical fault or wiring/connector issue — The PCM detects a fault in the EBP sensor circuit; wiring/connector faults or a failed sensor are typical causes on the 6.0L.2
  4. VGT control upset by erroneous EBP signal — Bad EBP readings also upset VGT control, which can contribute to boost-related symptoms alongside the P0471.13

How to diagnose

  1. Verify freeze-frame conditions and confirm P0471 is present with no other primary codes. Check for related VGT/boost codes that may indicate EBP influence.
  2. Key-on, engine-off: compare EBP PID to barometric pressure PID. A mismatch suggests sensor or reference issue.
  3. Inspect the EBP sensor and its steel sense tube for soot clogging, corrosion, or damage; check the tube for blockage at both ends.
  4. Inspect EBP sensor connector and wiring for oil contamination, corrosion, or chafing; verify reference voltage and signal return integrity.
  5. Command VGT vane position and monitor EBP and MAP response to assess whether erroneous EBP is affecting VGT control.
  6. If the tube is clear and wiring is good, test EBP sensor output vs a known-good reference or substitute sensor to confirm range/performance.

Common mistake to avoid

Replacing the turbo before smoke-testing the intake. Boost leaks at intercooler boots, end tanks and clamps are a common cause of low power and underboost codes, and they mimic a failing turbo. Source: BD Diesel — 6.7L Power Stroke problems and real fixes.

Parts and tools you may need

Tools you’ll need

Rough cost and difficulty

Likely repairPartsShop laborWho usually does it
Wiring or connector repair$10–$1001–4 hrsDIY with tools and a manual
Exhaust backpressure sensor$60–$2000.5–1.5 hrsEasy DIY
VGT actuator / vane control solenoid$100–$4000.5–2 hrsDIY with tools and a manual

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 the EBP circuit tests good but VGT control remains erratic, or if you find evidence of exhaust leaks, turbo damage, or need to remove/replace exhaust components, have a qualified diesel technician evaluate the VGT actuator, unison ring, and turbocharger health. Do not attempt high-pressure oil or exhaust system repairs without proper training and safety equipment.

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

  1. Curated DTC seed — 6.0 Power Stroke (curated) ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎

  2. Curated DTC seed — 6.0 Power Stroke (curated) ↩︎ ↩︎

  3. Curated DTC seed — 6.0 Power Stroke (curated) ↩︎