P0402 — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Excessive — 6.7 Powerstroke
Diagnostic reference for P0402 on 6.7 Powerstroke (2011–present).
What it means
Measured EGR flow is higher than commanded.1
Most likely causes
- Stuck-open EGR valve — Valve remains open, allowing excess exhaust into intake.12
- EGR position sensor rationality fault — Position feedback implausible versus command, causing over-flow detection.13
- Soot binding / carbon buildup affecting valve operation — Soot can hold the valve open or prevent proper closure.2
- EGR valve assembly fault — Valve assembly or internal position sensor malfunction.3
- EGR cooler restriction contributing to flow anomaly — Cooler issues can affect flow characteristics; sometimes noted with stuck-open conditions.2
How to diagnose
- Verify code and freeze-frame data; confirm P0402 is active and note engine conditions.
- Inspect EGR valve operation and position feedback using scan tool; compare commanded vs actual position.
- Check EGR position sensor circuit range/performance for rationality faults.
- Inspect for soot binding or carbon buildup affecting valve closure.
- Review related EGR codes (e.g., P042E stuck open, P046C position sensor) for pattern.
- Assess intake and boost sensor data for rationality, as MAP/BARO faults can affect EGR control calculations.
Common mistake to avoid
Replacing the EGR valve without testing it. If the valve still moves freely, a carbon cleaning often fixes the flow code; and if it opens on command but the code stays, the blockage is in the passages or cooler, not the valve. Source: FleetRabbit — EGR valve problems and repair.
Parts and tools you may need
- Scan tool with live data
- Digital multimeter
- Inspection light/borescope
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Reads P0402 and freeze-frame data, and displays commanded vs actual EGR valve position for rationality checks.
- digital multimeter — Tests EGR position sensor supply, ground, and signal voltage to verify sensor circuit range and rationality.
- borescope — Inspects EGR valve pintle and passages for soot binding or carbon buildup without full disassembly.
Rough cost and difficulty
| Likely repair | Parts | Shop labor | Who usually does it |
|---|---|---|---|
| EGR valve/passage carbon cleaning | $20–$100 | 1–4 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| EGR position/temperature/differential pressure sensor | $60–$300 | 0.5–1.5 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| EGR valve | $150–$700 | 2–4 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| EGR cooler | $400–$900 | 3–6 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 diagnosis is inconclusive or internal EGR components require removal, consult a qualified diesel technician.
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: P0402 on the 6.7 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 6.7 Powerstroke? This goes straight to the editor — it is not published.