What is the P0487 fault code What is the description of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Throttle “A” Control Circuit Open malfunction? How can you fix P0487 fault code What are the causes of the P0487 fault codes?
What is the P0487 Fault code? What does it all mean?
A code P0487 means that either the engine control unit (ECM), or the powertrain control module, (PCM), has detected an issue with the exhaust gas circulation (EGR) system flow rate.
The diagnosis of this fault is made up of two parts. The first concern the EGR valve/wiring system. It can be either open or closed circuit, short circuits or broken wires. The throttle position control circuit is part of the other.
The EGR valve, which is similar to the throttle body, is located between the intake and air filters. It works by creating a small vacuum that draws the exhaust gases into the intake valve.
Modern cars have electrical systems that calculate how far the accelerator pedal has been pressed, and then transmit this information to the motor (also known as the actuator or the PCM) in the throttle body. The throttle actuator controls the opening and closing of the throttle plate. The speed at which the throttle plates opens and closes is the same as when the accelerator pedal is depressed. There are many electronic components and fittings in this system that could cause malfunction.
The P0487 fault code can affect vehicles of all makes and models, including but not limited to: Volkswagen, Citroen Peugeot, Fiat Mitsubishi, Alfa Romeo Renault, Alfa Romeo Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler, Dodge Suzuki, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz.
What is the P0487 Fault Code?
These are the most common reasons that P0487 fault codes are triggered:
- – EGR valve that is extremely dirty or clogged or DPFE (DPFE, the Ford system)
- – Defective EGR valve
- – Defective EGR sensor
- – Sensor to detect a defective absolute manifold pressure sensor (MAP).
- – Defective EGR control solenoid
- – Damaged, bent or broken vacuum lines
- – Damaged connectors and cables
- – A PCM that is not working or requires a software upgrade
What are the symptoms for P0487 Malfunction Codes?
In the beginning stages, there won’t be any symptoms. The fault code is stored in your PCM. It may take several driving cycles to get the check engine light to turn on. You may notice a drastic decrease in performance in extreme cases.
The EGR valve should be kept in closed position. This will cause nitrogen oxides buildup and engine knock. If the knocking is persistent, it is a sign that the engine is not being heated up enough to check the EGR.
Vacuum leaks can occur if the EGR is left on. This will cause inefficient combustion, hesitation and misfire, hard start, hard starting, irregular idling, and even stalling. Excessive amounts of exhaust gas will enter the combustion chamber through the EGR valve, which can lead to deterioration in the air-fuel combination.
These symptoms may be present in vehicles with code P0487.
- – Illumination and control of the check engine light
- – Increased fuel consumption
- – Engine hesitation / stumbling during acceleration
- – Engine knock will occur if the EGR valve is not in its closed position.
- The EGR valve should be in an open position. If it is, the air-fuel mixture can deteriorate, misfire, idle fluctuations, and stall.
- – The engine can be jerky or hard to start
How do I fix the P0487 fault code?
The codes should be first read using a scan tool. Next, reset the code to see if it has returned. The vacuum lines within the EGR system need to be visually examined. P0487 codes are more often caused by damaged vacuum lines than a faulty EGR valve. After checking the vacuum lines, it is important to inspect the wiring and other connections. Repairs or replacements may be necessary.
The EGR valve should also be checked to ensure that there is enough vacuum. It is important to inspect the solenoid and determine if it is blocked or clogged. The operation of an electronic EGR valve should be checked while the engine is running. The throttle body may have blocked the EGR passages.
There are several repairs that can resolve the P0487 fault code.
- – Replacing damaged vacuum line
- – Replacing the defective solenoid
- – Replacing the defective EGR valve
- – Cleaning the throttled EGR gates
- – Repairing or replacing damaged connectors and cables
- – Reprogramming the PCM or replacing it
How Serious Is the P0487 Fault Code
A set code P0487 will not affect your vehicle’s driving but it can indicate serious problems. This code may not only cause your vehicle to fail the emissions test but also have a number of performance issues. It is important to diagnose the problem immediately and fix it as soon as possible.
