P0472
Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Low
Exhaust pressure / emissions
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0472 means the exhaust pressure (back-pressure) sensor circuit is reading low. On diesels and some turbocharged engines this sensor helps manage EGR and the particulate filter. A low or lost signal can push the engine into reduced-power or limp mode to protect it, though the car still runs and starts.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Often reduced — the engine may enter limp mode with lower power; drive gently to get it looked at, but avoid towing or hard acceleration.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power or acceleration
- Engine may enter limp mode
- Decreased fuel efficiency
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty exhaust pressure (back-pressure) sensorLikely
- Wiring shorted low or open in the sensor circuitCommon
- Corroded or loose sensor connectorCommon
- Clogged or damaged pressure sense tube to the sensorLess often
- ECM fault (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the exhaust pressure sensor connector and wiring for shorts, opens, and corrosion.
- Check the sensor's pressure tube/port for soot clogging or damage and clean or replace as needed.
- Compare the sensor signal to spec; replace the sensor if it reads low or out of range.
- If wiring and sensor are good, have the ECM evaluated. Clear the code and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0472?+
Only gently. The engine may drop into limp mode to protect itself, cutting power. Get it diagnosed soon and avoid towing or hard driving.
Can I just clear P0472?+
It will return as soon as the fault is detected again. This is a circuit fault that needs the sensor, wiring, or tube repaired before the code stays off.
Related codes
Often seen with P0472
Read & clear P0472 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX