Ford Repair: 1998 Mercury Mountaineer Check Engine P0401, egr solenoid, exhaust gasses

Question
The code says that ECM has detected too little flow on the EGR system. It says probable causes are 1. Blocked passage on EGR system. 2. Failed EGR valve. 3. EGR solenoid faulty. 4. Failed EGR pressure sensor. 5. Failed EGR position sensor. Could you tell me what would have to be done to remove the blockage? Will the mechanic have to remove the engine plate to clean all the carbon debris out or is there some type of engine cleaner that I can put in the gas tank that will help clear the clogged area in the engine? Thank you in advance for your help

Answer
no gas cleaner will remove this type of blockage it is inside throttle body and is caused by oil fumes from pcv system mixing with hot exhaust gasses from egr and is a normal condition-the throttle body may have to be removed to clean it no big deal-this depends on which engine you have.

but more than likely you will have a bad dpfe sensor this is most common-if the sensor is metal it is almost a given it will be bad and will probably be replaced with a plastic one-find the egr valve with engine idling apply vacuum to egr valve if engine stalls or idles rough passage is probably clear.

good luck.