Share a caseSign in
EmissionsSeverity Medium: diagnose soon

P0404Exhaust Gas Recirculation "A" Control Circuit Range/Performance

What it means

The EGR valve is commanded, but its position doesn't follow the command within the expected time or range.

Symptoms

  • Rough idle or stalling
  • Loss of power, sometimes limp mode
  • Black smoke (diesel) or pinging under load (petrol)

Common causes

  • Sticking EGR valve
  • Faulty position sensor inside the valve
  • Weak motor or poor supply

What to check first

  1. Compare commanded and actual EGR position in live data
  2. Clean or replace the valve and run any adaptation
  3. Check the supply voltage under load
Can I drive with P0404? Usually yes for a short distance, but performance or economy may suffer and the fault can get worse. Diagnose it soon.

Generic OBD-II meaning. Manufacturer-specific meanings and checks can differ; always check the service information for the car.

How to test the parts behind P0404

EGR valveWiring, typical values, multimeter and scope tests

Known engine problems that set P0404

2.0 TDI EA189: EGR valve and EGR coolerVolkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat · typically 120,000–220,000 km1.6 TDI EA189: EGR valve stickingVolkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat · typically 100,000–200,000 kmBMW N47: EGR cooler leaking coolant (recall)BMW, Mini, Toyota · typically 60,000–200,000 km1.3 Multijet/CDTI: EGR valve cloggingFiat, Opel, Suzuki, Ford, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot, Citroën · typically 80,000–180,000 kmToyota 2.0/2.2 D-4D: EGR and intake carbon build-upToyota, Lexus · typically 80,000–180,000 km

Cases with P0404 (1)

Share yours
Black smoke, rough idle and limp mode in town trafficTraining case · 2010 Fiat Punto Evo · 1.3 Multijet 75 · fixed: EGR valve sticking partly open with carbon from short trips.

Colleagues asking about P0404

Ask for help

Stuck on P0404? Describe what you measured and ask the community.

P0404: questions and answers

What does P0404 mean?

P0404: Exhaust Gas Recirculation "A" Control Circuit Range/Performance. The EGR valve is commanded, but its position doesn't follow the command within the expected time or range.

What are the symptoms of P0404?

Rough idle or stalling. Loss of power, sometimes limp mode. Black smoke (diesel) or pinging under load (petrol).

What causes P0404?

Sticking EGR valve. Faulty position sensor inside the valve. Weak motor or poor supply.

How do you diagnose P0404?

1. Compare commanded and actual EGR position in live data 2. Clean or replace the valve and run any adaptation 3. Check the supply voltage under load

Can I drive with P0404?

Usually yes for a short distance, but performance or economy may suffer and the fault can get worse. Diagnose it soon.