Error Code P0470 is defined as Exhaust Pressure Sensor Malfunction. This means the sensor in charge of evaluating the exhaust pressure is not working due to a poor electrical connection or back pressure sensor.
This trouble code is a generic error code, which means it applies to all cars with variable nozzle turbochargers (diesel or gas), or cars made since 2006 on Ford trucks equipped with 6L diesel engines, Ford EcoBoost engines and the Cummins 6.7L in 2007, the 3.0L in the Mercedes lineup in 2007 and here recently the Cummins 3.0L 6 cyl in the Nissan pickups starting in 2015. That’s not to say you wouldn’t necessarily get this code in a VW or other make though.
Error Code P0470 happens when the sensor in charge of determining the exhaust pressure is not working properly. This code happens when the incoming signal from the exhaust pressure sensor not matching the pressure from the intake manifold or ambient pressure at key on. This can be caused by a fault in the electrical circuit or a mechanical failure.
Error Code P0470 is related for Error Code P0471 . The only difference between the two is the duration the code persisted for the electrical/mechanical problem your 2009 Saturn Vue is experiencing.
Other related exhaust pressure sensor trouble codes include P0471 , P0472 , P0473 and P0474 .
As with other trouble codes, P0470 triggers the Check Engine light. Other symptoms include:
There are many factors that can lead to this error code, some of the typical causes are:
Mechanics start their diagnosis for cars with this error code by checking the exhaust back pressure sensor. They disconnect the tube that connects the exhaust manifold to the exhaust pressure sensor and try to run air through it. If that step proves to be impossible, they will dislodge whatever is causing the blockage using a wire.
Next, mechanics will check the wiring involved, and look for signs of damage. The connectors will also be checked thoroughly.
To test the power supply circuit and make sure it’s working properly, the harness that runs to the exhaust pressure sensor can also be disconnected.
If nothing seems to work, then the problem is most likely caused by a malfunctioning exhaust pressure sensor.
Repairs for this error code are pretty simple, and as we have covered above, the most basic repair to get rid of the error code is to replace the back pressure sensor. Other common fixes are:
Error Code P0470 keeps your 2009 Saturn Vue from reaching its potential in power and performance. In many cases, this problem can be solved by simply replacing the malfunctioning sensor. However, you need to make sure everything is working fine before replacing the sensor.
When diagnosing, start by checking the back pressure sensor and check everything before moving on to the next step of diagnosis to make sure you don’t waste time and money on misdiagnosis and unnecessary replacements.