P0473 Code: Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit High
🟠 Moderate severity · drivable
Drivable, but watch for reduced power and worse fuel economy; fix it soon.
What P0473 means
The exhaust pressure sensor measures exhaust backpressure and reports it to the engine computer as a voltage. This code means the voltage is too high, outside the expected range. A high reading usually points to a bad sensor, a wiring problem, or a physical blockage in the exhaust.
Symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Reduced fuel economy
- Loss of engine power
- Black smoke or poor performance on diesels
Common causes
- most common: Faulty exhaust pressure sensor
- common: Short to voltage in the sensor wiring
- common: Corroded or loose sensor connector
- less common: Plugged exhaust or clogged diesel particulate filter
- rare: Faulty engine computer
How to fix it
| Fix | DIY? | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Replace the exhaust pressure sensor | Yes | $80–200 |
| Repair damaged wiring and clean the connector | Yes | $50–150 |
| Check for exhaust restrictions like a clogged filter | Mechanic | $100–300 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a P0473 code?
Yes, in most cases. The engine will run, but performance and fuel economy can drop, so plan to have it repaired soon.
What does a high exhaust pressure circuit mean?
It means the voltage signal from the sensor is higher than the computer expects, usually from a bad sensor or a wiring short.
How much does it cost to fix a P0473?
A new sensor runs about $80–$200. Wiring repairs or checking for exhaust blockage can add more.
Related codes
P0472
P0472 Code: Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Low
P0474P0474 Code: Exhaust Pressure Sensor A Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
P0475P0475 Code: Exhaust Pressure Control Valve A Malfunction
Updated 2026-08. This page is informational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis.