Understanding the Ford DPFE

Every vehicle on the road today contains computerized devices that keep that vehicle running properly, and these can include relays, wiring, fuses and other electronic components that serve a variety of purposes. One of these devices is the Delta Pressure Feedback EGR (or DPFE) sensor. It is a component of the engine that serves to make the engine and exhaust operate properly. Without it, regulation of certain components would not be function, and performance and other areas of the vehicle would be affected. To that end, the following information seeks to shed light on the DPFE for Ford vehicles, including its purpose, it common problems and more.

What is the Ford DPFE?

As noted, the DPFE is a Delta Pressure Feedback EGR sensor. It is part of the EGR system, which is an acronym for the exhaust gas recirculation system. This system, and the DPFE, are responsible for controlling emissions and for using exhaust gas in the engine combustion process. The DPFE is specifically responsible for measuring the exhaust gas flow for the purpose of controlling the flow to the engine. It reports its findings to the powertrain control module (PCM), and the module then adjusts the level of flow coming from the EGR valve, which is directly responsible for adding exhaust gas to the fresh air intake.

How Important is the DPFE?

The DPFE plays an integral role in a Ford automobile’s EGR system function. Without it, regulation of the exhaust gas flow would not occur, and this could result in imbalances in the emissions that are released and in those that are recycled. As a result, the vehicle may produce more emissions than are allowed by local, state or federal government. Since the recirculation of gases is partially responsible for keeping the engine cool, higher running temperatures could occur as well, which might result in greater wear and higher repair of the engine. If the DPFE were not in place on a Ford or any other automobile, a comparable device would need to be present in order to serve the same or similar functions as the DPFE does.

What are Some Common Problems with the DPFE?

The DPFE is an electronic component and is thus susceptible to issues that are common to electronic components, and two elements that commonly effect electronic components are heat and water. If the device becomes overheated, or if it even just experiences normal heat for an extended time (years, for example), it can become damaged. If water is allowed to penetrate the component, it can experience a short or corrosion. Since the DPFE is located under the hood on a Ford vehicle, it is exposed to both, although heat will likely be the more common of the two elements to affect it. When the DPFE is exposed to said elements and damages occur, the sensors may improperly read the airflow, which can affect the entire system.

How Difficult is it to Replace a DPFE?

The Ford DPFE sensor is relatively easy to replace, even for those who may not be adept at car repairs. The component sits toward the top of the engine and can be accessed when the hood is open. The exact placement may vary slightly, but it should typically be placed at the back of the engine, near the top on the firewall. The upstream hose, the downstream hose, the wiring clip and the screws will need to be removed, and it should then just pop off. The process for installing a new DPFE in a Ford is the reverse of removal, and this job can be done in as little as 15 minutes.

The DPFE plays an important role in the performance of a Ford vehicle, because without it, the overall performance and life of the vehicle could be affected. The DPFE may experience problems at some point, but in most cases, it will last for years (if not decades) before needing to be replaced. When they do need replaced, however, the process is very easily completed, allowing Ford owners (and other car owners) to take some initiative in their car repairs and to avoid the need for an often costly visit to an auto mechanic.