What P0487 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.
Many diesels use a throttle in the intake to create the pressure difference needed to drive EGR flow. The engine computer positions it and checks its feedback.
What “Control Circuit” means here
A "control circuit" fault means the module's driver for the EGR throttle (diesel intake throttle) detected a problem on the wire it uses to command the component: an open, a short, or a voltage that does not match what it is commanding. This is an electrical fault, so the component, its connector and wiring, and its power feed are the places to look.
What you may notice
Symptoms depend on the vehicle and on how the module responds to the fault. Any of these can accompany P0487:
- Loss of power
- Shudder on shut-down on engines that close it to stop the engine smoothly
Where to start diagnosing P0487
- Inspect the throttle for soot build-up.
- Check connector, wiring and actuator resistance.
- Use an actuator test to check full travel.
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 P0487. Support varies by vehicle; a value your car does not report will simply be missing.
| Value | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Commanded throttle actuator (PID 0x4C) | Where supported. |
| Commanded EGR (PID 0x2C) | Context. |
Related codes
Codes from the same EGR throttle (diesel intake throttle) family. If several are stored together, the shared part — wiring, a common reference voltage, or the component itself — is the place to start.
| Code | Definition |
|---|---|
| P0488 | Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Position Control Range/Performance |
Further reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0487 mean?
P0487 is the generic SAE J2012 code for "Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Position Control Circuit". In plain terms, it means the engine computer has detected a "control circuit" fault on the EGR throttle (diesel intake throttle).
Can I keep driving with P0487?
Usually drivable at reduced performance.
What should I check first for P0487?
Inspect the throttle for soot build-up.
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.