P0402 — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Excessive (6.7 Cummins (EGR + DPF, pre-SCR))
Diagnostic reference for 6.7L Cummins 2007.5–2012 EGR+DPF pre-SCR.
What it means
The ECM has detected measured EGR flow higher than commanded. Generic definition: measured EGR flow is higher than commanded. Typical on this platform: 6.7L Cummins 2007.5–2012 EGR+DPF pre-SCR.1
Most likely causes
- EGR valve stuck open / mechanically binding — Valve fails to close, causing continuous high EGR flow. Related platform code for stuck open is P042E — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Stuck Open.2
- EGR valve position sensor / feedback error — Incorrect position feedback makes ECM think flow is excessive. Control circuit range/performance issues are covered by P0404 — EGR control circuit operating outside expected range or performance.3
How to diagnose
- Verify code and freeze frame; confirm P0402 is active on 6.7 Cummins 2007.5–2012 EGR+DPF pre-SCR.
- Inspect EGR valve operation and position feedback; compare commanded vs actual. Control circuit range/performance is P0404; stuck open is P042E.
- Check EGR passages/cooler for carbon blockage and valve mechanical binding.
- Review exhaust backpressure and DPF regen frequency; frequent regens indicated by P2459 — Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration Frequency.
- Assess intake/exhaust leaks and sensor inputs; platform uses MAP primary load, MAF for EGR/emissions per platform facts.
Parts and tools you may need
- Scan tool with live EGR commanded vs actual data
- EGR valve position sensor data
- Exhaust backpressure gauge
- Inspection light and borescope
Rough cost and difficulty
Parts and labor vary by region and shop; diagnostic time is typically 1–2 hours before parts replacement.
When to see a pro
If EGR valve removal or high-pressure fuel system work is required, have a qualified diesel technician perform it. Do not service high-pressure fuel lines or safety-critical systems without proper training and tools.
Sources
Watch a repair
Third-party videos, not ours — for illustration. Confirm anything against the factory service information for your truck.
Help improve this guide
Own a 6.7 and spotted something wrong or missing? Tell us. This goes straight to the editor — it is not published.