P046C — Exhaust Gas Recirculation Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance — 6.7 Powerstroke
Diagnostic reference for 6.7L Powerstroke (2011–present) P046C.
What it means
The PCM sees EGR position feedback that is implausible versus command.1
Most likely causes
- EGR valve position sensor or valve assembly fault — Typical on this platform: EGR valve position sensor or the valve assembly.1
- EGR control stuck open due to soot binding — EGR control circuit reports valve stuck open; typical cause is soot binding the valve; sometimes the cooler.2
How to diagnose
- Verify freeze-frame and repeatability of P046C with scan tool.
- Inspect EGR valve and position sensor for contamination/soot binding; check mechanical freedom of valve.
- Check EGR position sensor signal plausibility versus commanded position using live data; compare to known-good values.
- Inspect EGR wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or poor contact affecting position feedback.
- Review related EGR codes (e.g., P042E stuck open) to identify if valve is mechanically stuck.
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
- Cleaning supplies for EGR components
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Read P046C freeze-frame and monitor live EGR commanded vs. actual position to confirm implausible feedback.
- digital multimeter — Check EGR position sensor supply, ground, and signal voltage for plausibility versus commanded position.
- inspection mirror — Visually assess EGR valve pintle and bore for soot binding and mechanical freedom without full disassembly.
- borescope — Inspect internal EGR passages and valve seat for carbon buildup that can cause sticking and implausible position feedback.
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 |
| Wiring or connector repair | $10–$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 |
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 repair involves high-pressure fuel or emissions-critical components, have a qualified diesel technician perform diagnosis and repair.
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: P046C 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.