P244A — Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too Low (Bank 1) — 6.4 Power Stroke
Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too Low (Bank 1)
What it means
The PCM sees a lower-than-expected pressure difference across the DPF on Bank 1. On the 6.4L Power Stroke this points to an aftertreatment/DPF sensing issue or a failed/cracked DPF substrate, not enough restriction being seen. It is a DPF code, not an EGR cooler bypass valve circuit code.1
Most likely causes
- DPF differential-pressure sensor hoses disconnected, cracked, or leaking — Leaking or disconnected sensing hoses cause the measured delta-P to read low.1
- DPF differential-pressure sensor fault or wiring issue — A failed sensor or wiring can report an artificially low delta-P.1
- Cracked or failed DPF substrate / internal DPF leak — A broken substrate reduces restriction, so delta-P stays low.1
- Exhaust leak upstream of the DPF — A leak before the DPF can reduce measured pressure differential.1
How to diagnose
- Verify freeze-frame conditions and confirm P244A is present with no accompanying DPF efficiency or restriction codes.
- Inspect DPF differential-pressure sensor hoses for disconnection, cracks, or oil contamination; check routing and secure connections.
- Inspect the DPF differential-pressure sensor electrical connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or moisture.
- Command a DPF pressure test with a scan tool and compare live delta-P to expected values at idle and elevated RPM.
- Inspect the DPF and exhaust for external leaks upstream of the DPF that could affect pressure readings.
- If sensor and hoses test good, evaluate DPF integrity for internal cracking or substrate failure using approved pressure testing and visual inspection methods.
- Review recent regen history and related DPF codes such as P2002, P244B, P2463, P2459 to assess overall aftertreatment health.
- Clear codes, road test under conditions that set the monitor, and confirm the fault does not return.
Common mistake to avoid
Cleaning or replacing the DPF before checking its pressure sensor and tubes. Cracked, melted, plugged or wet sensor tubes, or a failing sensor, can set DPF codes while the filter itself is fine. They are cheap to check; clear and verify them before touching the filter. Source: FleetRabbit — P2002 DPF efficiency code causes and fixes.
Parts and tools you may need
- Scan tool with live data and bi-directional controls
- DPF differential-pressure sensor
- DPF differential-pressure sensor hoses
- Exhaust back-pressure test equipment
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Read P244A freeze-frame and command a DPF differential-pressure test to compare live delta-P at idle and elevated RPM against expected values.
- digital multimeter — Verify DPF differential-pressure sensor supply, ground, and signal voltages and check wiring/connector integrity for opens, shorts, or corrosion.
- exhaust backpressure gauge — Measure actual pre- and post-DPF pressure to confirm low delta-P and detect internal DPF cracking or upstream exhaust leaks.
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 |
| DPF differential pressure sensor | $80–$300 | 0.5–1.5 hrs | Easy DIY |
| Exhaust manifold, gasket or up-pipe leak repair | $50–$400 | 2–6 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| DPF replacement | $1,500–$4,000 | 1–4 hrs | Shop |
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 DPF substrate failure is suspected, or if exhaust disassembly is required, have a qualified diesel aftertreatment technician perform inspection and repair. Do not attempt high-pressure fuel 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
Repair videos: P244A on the 6.4 Power Stroke
Third-party videos, not ours — picked for this engine. Confirm anything against the factory service information for your truck.
Spotted an error, or something missing? Tell us
Run a 6.4 Power Stroke? This goes straight to the editor — it is not published.