Q: My DPFE sensor burned up. What do you think caused this and will it do a new one the same way?

asked by on October 26, 2016

The car was losing power and just sounding funny that is when I found the burned up sensor.

My car has an automatic transmission.

Catalytic Converter Replacement $288.41 - $1959.69 Get a Quote
Exhaust System Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. The delta pressure feedback of EGR (DPFE) sensor was burned up for having too much back pressure on the engine.

A plugged catalytic converter or a plugged exhaust muffler will cause the engine to have excessive back pressure.

Also, a kink in the exhaust pipe will also cause excessive back pressure. As the pressure builds up, the engine exhaust temperature rises and will heat us the tubes that the DPFE registers and will cause it to melt. Put something on the end of the tail pipe and see if the engine exhaust will push it away.

If it does not push away or it is weak in force, then you may need the muffler or catalytic converter replaced. If you need further assistance diagnosing your exhaust system, then seek out a professional, such as one from YourMechanic, to help pinpoint the problem and guide you with repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How Does the Starter Work in Your Car?
Back in the old days, cars had a hand-operated crank that had to be spun around for quite a while by the driver in order to start an engine. The reason for this was simple. In order to start a...
How do I disable the Easy Entry feature?
For your comfort when entering and exiting your vehicle, your truck comes with a feature called Easy Entry. This feature will automatically move the driver's seat back a few inches when you are getting in or out of the truck....
Thumping sounds while driving over sharp bumps
The only part you did not mention (and the most likely cause of the problem) is the inside lower control arm bushings (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-do-trailing-arm-bushings-last_2) are bad. I would also check the steering gear mount bushings (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-steering-rack-mounting-bushings-last) for excessive wear. Both of...
Car cannot start, shifter showing second gear
Your symptoms seem to be similar to the situation where the linkage between the shifter handle and the transmission range selector may be loose or broken. In this event it may seem like the transmission range selections don't match up...
lights on for power steering and stabilitrack on
Hello. Thank you for writing in. The electronic power steering system can absolutely be replaced. Due to the fact the light is on the system is obviously detecting an issue, and a diagnostic scan of the vehicle can be done...
My Interior light won't turn on like the gauges and radio screen.
The interior lights are on a timer in the vehicle. This timer is a Ballast resistor that keeps the lights on for a short period of time when the doors are shut. The resistor maybe shorting out causing the lights...
the cars steering wheel is jerking to the left
Hello. Two things that could be causing your the issue on the Sorento are a twisted power steering hose or a faulty new component(power steering rack, PS pump). I suggest you check all power steering hoses to make sure they...
Infiniti G35 stuck in limp mode. Codes for transmission solenoid valve. Can I replace valve body myself?
This would depend on how proficient you are witg transmisson work. I would recommend doing some research on this particular repair. If you are in doubt about this repair, i would recommend having the job done by a qualified professional....
I am leaking coolant only sometimes. 2002 vw passat.
Coolant leaks can be very tricky because they might happen only under certain conditions. Some leaks may only occur when the engine is cold, while others might only show when the engine is hot. some may be low pressure leaks...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Love Road Trips
If If you love to travel, comfort is very important in a vehicle. You want a nice, quiet ride, comfortable seating, and enough room. We have evaluated several used vehicles, and narrowed our favorite road trip vehicles down to the...
How Long Does a Coolant Level Sensor Last?
The The coolant level sensor uses a moveable float device and a reed switch that senses when the radiator has low coolant. Once the sensor detects low coolant, the driver is alerted by a light illuminated on the dashboard. The...
How Long Does a Mass Airflow Sensor Last?
The The right amount of air and fuel in your engine is a vital component in keeping the engine running as it should. Making sure that all of the vital components of the air and fuel system are running at...