P0470 — Exhaust Pressure Sensor Malfunction — 6.7 Powerstroke
Diagnostic reference for P0470 on 6.7L Powerstroke.
What it means
Exhaust back-pressure sensor signal is out of range or implausible.1
Most likely causes
- Plugged exhaust pressure sensor tubes — Soot or condensate blocks the small sense tubes to the DPF differential pressure sensor, causing implausible pressure readings.1
- Exhaust pressure sensor failure — Sensor internal fault produces out-of-range signal.1
- Wiring/connector fault to exhaust pressure sensor — Corrosion or damage to harness/connector gives implausible signal.1
How to diagnose
- Verify code P0470 is present and check freeze-frame for engine load/temperature conditions.
- Inspect exhaust pressure sensor and sense tubes for soot plugging, moisture, or damage; look for cracked tubes or loose connections.
- Check sensor electrical connector for corrosion, pin damage, and secure seating.
- Monitor live exhaust back-pressure sensor data with a scan tool during idle and light load; compare to expected values and look for stuck or erratic readings.
- Inspect wiring harness routing near hot exhaust components for heat damage or chafing.
- If available, compare differential pressure sensor readings to a known-good reference or substitute sensor to isolate sensor vs. plumbing issue.
- Clear codes and perform a controlled drive cycle to confirm code returns under normal operating conditions.
Parts and tools you may need
- Scan tool with live data
- Inspection light
- Basic hand tools for visual access
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Reads P0470 and live exhaust back-pressure data to confirm implausible readings at idle and light load.
- Digital multimeter — Checks sensor supply, ground, and signal voltage for out-of-range or wiring faults.
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 |
| Exhaust backpressure sensor | $60–$200 | 0.5–1.5 hrs | Easy DIY |
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 points to high-pressure fuel, brake, or other safety-critical systems, stop and have a qualified diesel technician evaluate the vehicle. Persistent or recurring codes, drivability concerns, or aftertreatment faults should be diagnosed by a professional with proper scan tools and service information.
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: P0470 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.