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What does a Ford DPFe sensor do?

The Ford DPFe sensor, also known as the Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency sensor, is a crucial component in the emissions control system of diesel-powered Ford vehicles. This sensor plays a vital role in monitoring the performance and efficiency of the vehicle's diesel particulate filter (DPF), which is responsible for capturing and removing soot and other particulate matter from the exhaust.


What is the Ford DPFe Sensor?


The Ford DPFe sensor is a specialized sensor that measures the efficiency of the DPF in removing particulate matter from the exhaust. It is typically located downstream of the DPF, allowing it to monitor the level of particulate matter that passes through the filter. The sensor provides real-time data to the vehicle's engine control unit (ECU), which then uses this information to optimize the DPF's regeneration process and ensure the system is functioning effectively.


How Does the Ford DPFe Sensor Work?


The Ford DPFe sensor uses a variety of techniques to measure the efficiency of the DPF. These may include:



  • Differential Pressure Measurement: The sensor measures the pressure difference across the DPF, which can indicate the level of particulate buildup and the filter's efficiency.

  • Optical Sensing: The sensor may use optical sensors to detect the presence and concentration of particulate matter in the exhaust stream.

  • Temperature Monitoring: The sensor may also measure the temperature of the exhaust, which can provide information about the DPF's regeneration process and overall performance.


By continuously monitoring these parameters, the Ford DPFe sensor can detect any issues with the DPF, such as excessive particulate buildup or a malfunctioning regeneration system. This information is then relayed to the ECU, which can take appropriate actions to maintain the DPF's efficiency and ensure the vehicle's emissions remain within legal limits.


Why is the Ford DPFe Sensor Important?


The Ford DPFe sensor is crucial for the proper functioning of the vehicle's emissions control system. Diesel engines, while generally more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts, tend to produce higher levels of particulate matter in their exhaust. The DPF is designed to capture and remove these particles, but it requires regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure it is working effectively.


The Ford DPFe sensor plays a key role in this process by providing real-time data on the DPF's performance. This information allows the ECU to adjust the DPF's regeneration cycle, ensuring that the filter is cleaned and maintained at optimal levels. This, in turn, helps to reduce harmful emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the DPF and other related components.


Overall, the Ford DPFe sensor is an essential component in the emissions control system of diesel-powered Ford vehicles, helping to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and maintain the vehicle's performance and efficiency.

What happens when a DPFe sensor goes bad?


A malfunctioning DPFE sensor may contribute to reduced engine performance, as it can possibly send incorrect information to the PCM. Incorrect calculations from the vehicle computer may cause excessive fuel consumption. At the same time, the engine may need to work harder to compensate for the faults.



Can a DPFE sensor be cleaned?


In conclusion, DPFE cleaning is an essential part of maintaining the emissions system on your vehicle. Regular Cleaning of the DPFE sensor can help prevent issues with increased emissions and decreased performance and can help ensure that your car runs smoothly and efficiently.



How do you know if your differential pressure sensor is bad?


Here are some signs that indicate the DPF is not regenerating properly due to the DPF sensor failing: Poor engine performance. Poor fuel economy. High engine temperatures.



What happens when your pressure sensor goes out?


A bad fuel pressure sensor will disrupt the fuel supply, which prevents the engine from getting the gasoline it needs. This can lead to hard starts, no starts, loss of power, etc.



What happens if a DPF sensor is faulty?


Symptoms of a failed or failing dpf pressure sensor? Symptoms can be loss of power, reduced fuel economy, poor throttle response, limp home mode, these are some causes, mis calculating the soot content in the DPF.



What is the trouble code for DPFE sensor?


The P1401 code, variously listed as “DPFE Circuit High Input,” “Differential/Delta Pressure Feedback EGR (DPFE) sensor circuit high voltage detected,” or “Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) pressure sensor circuit malfunction, high input,” indicates a problem within the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.



What are symptoms of clogged EGR?


Because it's so intrinsic to your engine's operation, you'll notice symptoms of a bad EGR valve such as:

  • Poor engine performance.
  • Increased fuel consumption.
  • Check Engine Light.
  • Pinging or knocking sounds.
  • Failed emissions test.
  • Rough or uneven idle.



Can a DPFe sensor be cleaned?


In conclusion, DPFE cleaning is an essential part of maintaining the emissions system on your vehicle. Regular Cleaning of the DPFE sensor can help prevent issues with increased emissions and decreased performance and can help ensure that your car runs smoothly and efficiently.



Can I drive with a bad DPFe sensor?


Driving with a bad DPFE will not directly hurt your engine, or cause break down. However, if the hose is off, this may cause you problems.



What does the DPFE sensor do?


The principal function of the DPFE sensor is to measure the pressure difference across the exhaust gas recirculation system. This function assists in regulating the opening and closing of the EGR valve, which controls the recirculation of exhaust gases back into the combustion chambers.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.