P1401 EGR valve circuit shorted to ground
P1401 means: EGR valve circuit shorted to ground. The EGR valve sends part of the exhaust back into the intake to cut emissions. OK to drive, but have it checked soon. The repair usually costs about €80–700 in Estonia. The most common cause: EGR valve clogged with soot.
What it means
The EGR valve sends part of the exhaust back into the intake to cut emissions. The computer found too much or too little flow, or a fault in the valve's electrics.
This is a make-specific code (VAG). The exact meaning can vary by model and year. On other makes the same code means: Ford: EGR differential pressure sensor (DPFE): signal too high.
What you may notice
- Engine light on
- Less power
- Rough idle
- Black smoke on diesels
What could be wrong
- 1EGR valve clogged with soot
- 2EGR passages or cooler blocked
- 3Faulty valve position sensor or motor
- 4Vacuum hose or solenoid (older cars)
Repair difficulty: Moderate
What you can check yourself
Lots of short trips clog the EGR quickly. Sometimes a longer motorway drive helps. You can check the simple things yourself, but the repair is best done in a workshop.
How we fix it
- We check valve operation with the diagnostic tool
- We clean the valve and passages
- We replace the valve if cleaning isn't enough
Standard SAE description: EGR Valve Circuit Short to Ground