P0473: Exhaust pressure sensor signal reading too high
Exhaust pressure sensor high input
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
The two sources read give a definition and causes but no guidance on how urgent the code is.
P0473 in short
P0473 means the engine computer found a problem with the exhaust pressure sensor circuit high input. TroubleCodes.net lists the likely causes as a wiring fault, the sensor itself, or the engine computer. The code is a diagnostic title only, so a scan tool and wiring checks are needed to tell which one failed.
P0473 is a generic code titled "Exhaust pressure sensor high" by the Delaware DMV list and by TroubleCodes.net.
Both sources describe a problem with the exhaust pressure sensor or its circuit; the code does not by itself say which part failed.
TroubleCodes.net says a basic scan tool reads the code but pinpointing the failed part needs more capable testing.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Wiring short to positive in the sensor circuit
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- TroubleCodes.net lists wiring first among the causes for this code.
- What would change this
- Rises if the harness or connector shows damage or the reading changes when it is moved. Falls if wiring tests good.
Cause 2: Faulty exhaust pressure sensor
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- TroubleCodes.net lists the sensor itself as a cause; it ranks after wiring because the circuit is cheaper to check first.
- What would change this
- Rises if wiring and power tests good and the reading stays wrong. Falls if a known-good sensor reads normally.
Cause 3: Engine computer fault
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- TroubleCodes.net lists the engine computer last; it is the least likely and is only suspected after the wiring and sensor are cleared.
- What would change this
- Rises only after wiring and sensor are proven good. Falls if either is found faulty.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data with a scan tool and note whether other turbo, EGR or exhaust pressure codes are stored with P0473.
IfOther codes on the same circuit or system are stored
It meansWork the shared wiring or power supply first.
IfP0473 is the only code
It meansInspect the sensor wiring next.
Step 2: With the key off, look over the sensor connector and harness for damage, corrosion, loose pins or rubbing.
IfDamage, corrosion or a loose pin is found
It meansRepair the wiring or connector.
IfWiring looks fine
It meansHave the sensor and computer checked.
Step 3: Have a shop check the sensor circuit with a multimeter or scope and compare the sensor reading with a reference.
Warning:Probing connectors can short pins and damage the computer, and the exhaust side is hot.
IfCircuit tests good but the reading is wrong
It meansThe sensor is suspect.
IfSensor and wiring both test good
It meansThe engine computer is suspect.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Greatly reduced engine power and poor fuel economy, as the computer may disable the turbocharger Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.
How to fix
Step 1: With the engine off and cool, check the sensor connector and its wiring for damage or loose pins.
Parts and cost context
- Engine control module (ECM / PCM):Rarely the cause; rule out wiring and the sensor first. Get a quote before buying parts.
Labor varies by vehicle and shop; get a quote before you approve a repair.
Compare used part prices on PartPriceGuideOn your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for P0473 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
No curated relationships for P0473 yet.
P0473 questions
What does P0473 mean?
It is the generic code for "Exhaust pressure sensor high"; the likely causes are wiring, the sensor or the computer.
Sources and review
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error