Ford Repair: EGR Flow, dpfe sensor, duratech

Question
"I have a 2001 Ford Escape 3.OL DOHC V-6 Duratech. I recently had a engine light on and a code of P-0301 (EGR flow insufficiant) Had the EGR valve replaced and now the light comes on for the same code. The symptoms are when the engine is first turned on it seems to want to stall at low idle but when it runs awhile and gets warmed up it seems to run better. There are alot of things associated with the EGR valve, like egr sensor etc..Why doesn't the computer pinpoint these problems and what do you think it could be?? Thanx


Answer
In the first place, P0301 is not an EGR code but a misfire code for cylinder #1. If the code is actually P0401, that is an EGR code, however the code doesn't tell what to replace, just the system. It is up to the technician to perform pinpoint tests to determine the exact cause of the code. Most EGR codes on later Fords are related to the DPFE sensor which is part of the EGR code.

Ford has a campaign #02M01 that pertains to EGR codes, if that is in fact an EGR code you have. Check with your local Ford dealer to see if yours is covered.

Your predicament is typical of those who see a code and start buying parts. Most codes there is more to diagnosis than just having a code.