What P0473 means
P means powertrain (engine and transmission). The 0 marks a generic code defined by SAE, so the same number means the same thing across makes. The third character, 4, places it in the auxiliary emission controls subsystem; the last two digits identify the specific fault.
Exhaust back-pressure sensors are mostly found on diesels, where they help manage the turbocharger, the exhaust brake and diesel particulate filter loading.
The letter "A" distinguishes between two or more of the same component on one vehicle. Which physical part is "A" is set by the manufacturer, so confirm it in the service information before replacing anything.
What “Circuit High” means here
"High" means the signal or control voltage rose above the maximum the module expects. On a three-wire sensor fed by a 5 V reference, typical causes are a signal wire shorted to the reference or to battery voltage, an open sensor ground, or a failed sensor.
What you may notice
Symptoms depend on the vehicle and on how the module responds to the fault. Any of these can accompany P0473:
- Loss of power or limp-home mode
- Particulate filter regeneration problems
Where to start diagnosing P0473
- Check the 5 V reference, ground and signal.
- Inspect the sensor's pressure tube for blockage with soot or condensation, or cracking from heat.
- With the engine off, the reading should be close to barometric pressure.
Clear the code only after recording freeze frame data: it shows the engine speed, load and temperature at the moment the fault set, which is often the best clue to reproducing it.
Live data to watch
These standard OBD2 values relate to P0473. Support varies by vehicle; a value your car does not report will simply be missing.
| Value | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Exhaust pressure (PID 0x73) | Where supported. |
| Barometric pressure (PID 0x33) | Engine-off comparison. |
Related codes
Codes from the same exhaust pressure sensor family. If several are stored together, the shared part — wiring, a common reference voltage, or the component itself — is the place to start.
Further reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0473 mean?
P0473 is the generic SAE J2012 code for "Exhaust Pressure Sensor "A" Circuit High". In plain terms, it means the engine computer has detected a "circuit high" fault on the exhaust pressure sensor.
Can I keep driving with P0473?
Usually drivable at reduced power.
What should I check first for P0473?
Check the 5 V reference, ground and signal.
Definition source: SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 generic DTC definitions. This is the generic meaning that applies across makes; a manufacturer can define a code more narrowly or add its own sub-codes, so confirm against the service information for your vehicle before replacing parts. Written by the OBDAssistant engineering team — see our editorial policy.