DPFE Sensor Questions
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New User
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DPFE Sensor Questions
I own a 1997 Ranger v6 4.0L 4wd. 136,000 miles. The truck has been sputtering and stalling. CEL came on. Took it to a Ford dealer and they said DPFE Sensor needs to be replaced. Would a bad DPFE Sensor really cause these problems? Also they want $102 for the part. Autozone has it for $56. Any danger of buying the part at Autozone for them to put on (other than warranty)? Need some advice not a car guy.
Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 2003
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From: Maine
Autozone parts aren't generally very good quality. I only use them if it's non-essential, or if I'm willing to accept that it may fail again in the near future.
JMO, I'm sure others have had better success there than I...
JMO, I'm sure others have had better success there than I...
Elder User
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: Seattle
Yes they really do cost $102 dollars, I just bought mine is July from the stealership.
As to Autozone, I'm not too sure it would be that much worse. But consider this, the DPFE sensor is one of the most important sensors on the truck, at least on the 2000 models. The DPFE controls the EGR settings, of which the computer relies on heavily during driving conditions. If the truck is stalling at a rest, I would supect the IAC over the DPFE.
As to Autozone, I'm not too sure it would be that much worse. But consider this, the DPFE sensor is one of the most important sensors on the truck, at least on the 2000 models. The DPFE controls the EGR settings, of which the computer relies on heavily during driving conditions. If the truck is stalling at a rest, I would supect the IAC over the DPFE.
Freshman User
Joined: Oct 2006
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I think ERG being stuck open at the wrong time will cause stalling. If you get the autozone part and put it on yourself it would be alot cheaper. Even if the dealership is wrong and it is not the DPFE sensor they will still charge you for the job. So now that you have their fancy diagnosis you may as well buy the cheap part and install it your self.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2006
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From: Ohio
Did the dealer reset the MIL? If not you can go to most of the parts stores and have them use their OBDII scanner to doublecheck the code. Its usually free since they want to sell you the part you need. If the dealer reset it then it probably will come back and you can get it checked. Or you can get a scanner your self for $50-100 to check it on your own. It will pay for itself after a few times, especially if you have more than one vehicle. Then you'll always be able to cross check what you are being told. The Equus 3030 is a good one.
It is always hard to know if the parts from places like Autozone and the like are going to be better, worse or the same than OEM, but I don't think all they sell is poor quality. So much of what the manufacturer puts in the new vehicles is outsourced to vendors so your exhaust components could be from Walker, your brake parts from Dana and your switches or relays from AC Delco. They all sell to the parts stores too. My two cents.
It is always hard to know if the parts from places like Autozone and the like are going to be better, worse or the same than OEM, but I don't think all they sell is poor quality. So much of what the manufacturer puts in the new vehicles is outsourced to vendors so your exhaust components could be from Walker, your brake parts from Dana and your switches or relays from AC Delco. They all sell to the parts stores too. My two cents.
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I have replaced the DPFE sensor on my 2000 Mountaineer 302 twice from Autozone....$56.00. They last about 6 mo. then the 0401 comes back. Think I will spring for the $102 this time to see if the OEM sensor lasts longer.
**HINT** before you install the new one....file the mounting holes open so they are slots...not holes. This way you don't need to remove the 2 bolts that hold it on, just loosen them up and slide it off. Those bolts are a real PAIN to get to. Of sourse you will have to remove them all the way the first time. Oh yea...plug the ports before you start filing.....: )
**HINT** before you install the new one....file the mounting holes open so they are slots...not holes. This way you don't need to remove the 2 bolts that hold it on, just loosen them up and slide it off. Those bolts are a real PAIN to get to. Of sourse you will have to remove them all the way the first time. Oh yea...plug the ports before you start filing.....: )
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Elder User
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Mine2go.. you might try checking or replacing the exhaust hoses for the DPFE.. sometimes the material inside deteriorates and flakes off.. pushing right up into the sensor and causing it to fail... then again it may just be Autozone Junk...
Typically, the sensor itself won't cause these problems, but I have seen it cause its fair share of running problems in a couple of cases... and if you're getting a code for it, then obviously you want to address that before working towards other possible problems (I'd rather replace a part that I KNOW is bad than waste money replacing a part that may not be bad).
Typically, the sensor itself won't cause these problems, but I have seen it cause its fair share of running problems in a couple of cases... and if you're getting a code for it, then obviously you want to address that before working towards other possible problems (I'd rather replace a part that I KNOW is bad than waste money replacing a part that may not be bad).
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Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: Niceville, FL.
If the EGR valve or passageways are plugged up with carbon then the infamous 0401 code will continue to reappear. Don't know why so many people badmouth Autozone, I've had just as good results with their parts as those from Advance, All-Pro, NAPA, etc.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2003
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From: North Carolina
Maybe I have a better relationship w/my dealership or something. I bought a DPFE sensor for my former F-150(02model) for $34. Changed it in the parking lot in less than 5min. before I left the property. Had a fellow at Autozone reset the code (which they are not supposed to do by the way), and no more problem. After that,(2months) I got a notice that there was a problem w/these, and Ford was replacing them, or reimbursing you if you already replaced yours. It may benefit you to research TSB's and recall info on your truck. The part cannot be that much different, and may even be the same,(have to research that too). Bottom line, $102 is a rip off plain and simple, and don't be afraid to walk away to another dealer, or another source,it will not void your warranty,and if they "threaten" to void it, find another dealer to give your money to, 'cause that's not the way to do business.
Elder User
Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Duluth, MN
Just because it shows a DPFE code, doesn't mean it's that sensor. A stuck open EGR can cause sputtering. The DPFE simply measures pressure differences on both sides of a metered orifice, telling the pcm that the egr has opened. DPFE's are known to go bad however, but I would check your EGR valve and the ports to be sure there is no obstructions....
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