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Home DTC Codes P0401 Medium · 45-90min
P0401 Warning

OBD2 Code P0401: Auxiliary Emissions (EGR, EVAP, Catalyst)

Emissions control system fault.

ECU: ECM

Detected Root Component

EGR Valve

Confidence level: high

Technical Component Diagrams

EGR Valve Layout

EGR Valve Layout

Diag Expert technical diagram

EGR Valve Connector

EGR Valve Connector

Diag Expert technical diagram

Observed Symptoms

  • Engine light on (MIL/Check Engine)
  • Emissions exceeding standards
  • Excessive fuel consumption
  • Strong exhaust smell

Possible Causes

  • Clogged EGR valve
  • EGR channel clogged
  • Failed catalyst
  • Vacuum leak
  • Faulty solenoid valve
Diagnostic Progress 0 %
Difficulty Medium
Est. time 45-90min
Tools Required 6 tool(s)

Tools Required

multimeter OBD scanner wiring diagram vacuum pump hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers) flashlight/mirror

Interactive Diagnostic

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Diagnostic Result

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Parts likely to be the cause (Vanne EGR)

Vanne EGR

Vanne EGR

Photo d'illustration : Vanne EGR

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Frequently asked questions about code P0401

What does code P0401 mean?

OBD2 Code P0401: Auxiliary Emissions (EGR, EVAP, Catalyst). Emissions control system fault.

What are the symptoms of code P0401?

Code P0401 may cause: Engine light on (MIL/Check Engine), Emissions exceeding standards, Excessive fuel consumption, Strong exhaust smell. The intensity of these symptoms varies depending on the vehicle and driving conditions.

What causes code P0401?

The most common causes of code P0401 are: Clogged EGR valve, EGR channel clogged, Failed catalyst, Vacuum leak. A proper OBD2 diagnostic will pinpoint the exact cause.

Is it serious to drive with code P0401?

Code P0401 has moderate severity (Warning). Short-term driving remains possible, but a prompt check is recommended to prevent worsening.

How do I fix code P0401?

Start by reading the code with an OBD2 scanner, then follow the interactive decision tree on this page. Priority causes to check: Clogged EGR valve, EGR channel clogged, Failed catalyst, Vacuum leak. Difficulty: Medium · Estimated time: 45-90min.