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Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Malfunction in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation System
What does that signify?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that applies to all vehicles manufactured from 1996 onwards (Ford, Dodge, GMC, Chevrolet, Mercedes, VW, etc.). Although it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
A stored P2413 code indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.
The EGR system, found in OBD-II equipped vehicles, is designed to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions in the engine exhaust. It consists of an electronically controlled EGR valve that opens via a voltage signal from the PCM. When the valve is open, a portion of the spent engine exhaust gases reenter the engine’s induction system, where excessive NOx vapors are burned as fuel.
Modern automobiles and light trucks use two basic types of EGR systems: linear and vacuum diaphragm. Both types have multiple openings that intersect in a single chamber. One of the openings is sealed tightly by a plunger when not commanded to open. The valve is positioned so that when the plunger is opened, exhaust can flow through the EGR chamber and enter the intake passage/s. This is typically achieved with an EGR exhaust tube or an extended intake passage. The linear EGR is opened using one or more electronically controlled solenoids controlled by the PCM. When the PCM recognizes specific engine load, vehicle speed, engine RPM, and engine temperature (depending on the vehicle manufacturer), the EGR valve is opened to a desired degree.
The vacuum diaphragm type valve is slightly more complex, as it uses an electronically controlled solenoid to divert intake vacuum to the EGR valve. The solenoid is usually supplied with intake vacuum on one of its two ports. When the solenoid is commanded open by the PCM, vacuum flows through and reaches the EGR valve, opening it to the desired degree.
When the EGR valve is commanded open, the PCM monitors EGR system performance using various methods. Some manufacturers equip their vehicles with a dedicated EGR sensor, such as the Delta Process Feedback EGR (DPFE) sensor. Other automakers use changes in manifold air pressure (MAP) and manifold air temperature (MAT) to monitor EGR performance.
If the PCM commands the EGR valve to be opened and does not observe the desired degree of change in the EGR sensor or MAP/MAT sensor, it will store a code P2413 and may illuminate a malfunction indicator lamp.
Symptoms & Severity
This code is related to emissions and can be addressed at your convenience. Symptoms of a P2413 code may include:
Causes
Possible causes for this engine code include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) specific to your vehicle. Your issue may be a known problem with a known solution provided by the manufacturer, which can save you time and money during diagnosis.
To diagnose a code P2413, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a hand-held vacuum pump (in some cases), and a vehicle service manual (or equivalent).
It is recommended to begin the diagnostic process with a visual inspection of system-related wiring and connectors. Repair or replace any shorted or open circuits as necessary.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector and retrieve all stored trouble codes and available freeze frame data. It is helpful to write down this information in case the code is intermittent. Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the P2413 code is reset.
Keep in mind that this type of code may require multiple drive cycles to reset. To confirm that you have resolved a low EGR performance condition, allow the PCM to go through a self-test procedure and enter OBD-II readiness mode. If the PCM enters readiness mode without resetting the code, the system is functioning as intended. The vehicle is also prepared for federally mandated emissions testing when the PCM is in readiness mode.
If the code is reset, consult the vehicle service manual to determine which type of EGR system your vehicle is equipped with.
To test the vacuum diaphragm EGR valve:
Connect the scanner to the diagnostic port and access the data stream. Narrow down the data stream to display only relevant data for a faster response. Connect the hand-held vacuum pump hose to the EGR vacuum port. Start the engine and let it idle in park or neutral. While observing the relevant data on the scanner display, slowly actuate the hand-held vacuum pump. The engine should stall due to excessive EGR activation at idle, and the appropriate sensor/s should show the expected degree of variation.
If the engine does not stall when the vacuum pump is pulled down, suspect a defective EGR valve or clogged EGR passages. Clogged EGR passages are more common in high mileage vehicles. You can remove the EGR valve and start the engine. If the engine makes a loud sucking sound and stalls, the EGR valve is likely faulty. If the engine shows no change without the EGR valve bolted on, there are likely clogged EGR passages. Most vehicles allow for relatively easy removal of carbon from EGR passages.
Linear EGR valves will need to be actuated using the scanner, but the test for EGR passages is the same. Consult the vehicle service manual and use the DVOM to test resistance levels in the EGR valve itself. If the valve falls within specifications, disconnect related controllers and test system circuits for resistance and continuity.
Additional diagnostic notes:
Professional Service
We always recommend seeking professional mechanical assistance to resolve this issue. However, if for some reason that is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to function. If you are interested in this option, please upload your ECU file to our portal.
