P042E — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control Stuck Open — 6.7 Powerstroke
Diagnostic reference for 6.7 Powerstroke (2011–present) P042E.
What it means
The EGR control circuit reports the valve stuck in the open position.1
Most likely causes
- Soot binding the EGR valve — Carbon/soot accumulation can hold the valve open.1
- Soot binding affecting the EGR cooler — Soot in the cooler can contribute to EGR system sticking behavior on this platform.1
- EGR position feedback implausible versus command — Position sensor or valve assembly rationality fault can mimic a stuck-open condition.2
- Excessive measured EGR flow — Measured flow higher than commanded may accompany a stuck-open valve or sensor rationality fault.3
How to diagnose
- Verify code P042E is present and check for related EGR codes such as P0402, P046C, P0401.
- Review freeze-frame data for engine load, temperature, and EGR commanded vs actual position.
- Inspect EGR valve operation and position sensor feedback for rationality versus command.
- Check for soot accumulation in the EGR valve and cooler as a typical cause on this platform.
- Assess EGR flow measurements against commanded values to confirm excessive flow condition.
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 for EGR commanded position and actual position
- Inspection light and mirror for visual soot assessment
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Reads P042E and related EGR codes and provides freeze-frame data for load, temperature, and commanded vs actual EGR position.
- digital multimeter — Checks EGR valve control circuit voltage and position sensor feedback signals for rationality versus PCM command.
- borescope — Inspects EGR valve and cooler passages for soot binding without full disassembly on the 6.7 Powerstroke.
Rough cost and difficulty
| Likely repair | Parts | Shop labor | Who usually does it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scan-tool forced (parked) regeneration | — | 0.5–1.5 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
| 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 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 component service is required, have a qualified diesel technician perform further testing.
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: P042E 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
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