The Important Role of an Exhaust Pressure Sensor in a Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is one of the world’s leading automobile brands, whose models are made with beautiful exteriors and sophisticated interior designs. Every component is carefully constructed for maximum vehicle functionality, and these components must all be in excellent working condition for the vehicle to run smoothly.
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are equipped with an exhaust pressure sensor, which plays an important role by monitoring the pressure difference in the exhaust system. Let’s take a deep dive to find out what an exhaust pressure sensor does, where it is located, and what to do if you notice there is a problem with this component.
What is an exhaust pressure sensor?
A pressure sensor is a unique gauge that measures the pressure between the gas in the particulate filter’s intake and outtake. In other words, an exhaust pressure sensor measures the difference between your vehicle’s exhaust before and after it passes through a filter. This differential sensor is one of the pollution control processes for engines mandated by European emission standards carried over into the US.
The exhaust pressure sensor is located in the exhaust system’s manifold outlet. An easy way to discover this in your Mercedes is to follow the pressure line. It will lead you straight to the sensor.
The Function of an Exhaust Gas Pressure Sensor
The Exhaust Gas Pressure (EGP) sensor is sometimes known as the Exhaust Back Pressure (EBP) sensor, and it is an essential element in the regeneration of gases that should be released into the atmosphere. Particulate matter and soot are trapped in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), preventing them from causing harm to the environment.
The exhaust gas pressure sensor checks pressure before and after the diesel particulate filter to detect a difference in pressure caused by the build-up of soot and particulate matter. It then tells the engine control unit to start the regeneration process.
Since the exhaust gas pressure sensor is so important to the filtration and regeneration process, it is important that it is designed so that it can last as long as possible. The EGP sensor helps to determine whether the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. If the sensor isn’t working properly, it could make your check engine light illuminate, or lead to the engine stalling or failing.
Symptoms of Exhaust Pressure Sensor Failure
The particulate filter in the exhaust can become clogged by contaminants and fail if the sensor does not signal a regeneration. Here are some symptoms that show that the sensor is failing:
- Poor engine performance and fuel economy: When the exhaust pressure sensor fails, the engine will not be able to perform optimally. The fuel will burn faster because the sensor no longer signals the regeneration process. So when you notice that your fuel is burning faster than it should, it could be a sign that the exhaust pressure sensor is failing.
- An increase in (soot) black smoke: An increase in soot coming out of your exhaust could be a sign that the exhaust pressure sensor is failing. When you observe this, quickly bring your vehicle to our reliable mechanics for repairs.
- Check engine light: The check engine light can also signal a failure in the exhaust pressure sensor.
Don’t Ignore Exhaust Pressure Sensor Problems
If you observe any of the symptoms above, quickly bring your vehicle to our expert mechanics for repairs. Driving your Mercedes-Benz with these symptoms is very risky and could lead to more costly engine repairs in the future, which are avoidable if you catch it early.
Visit our Expert Auto Repair Shop in Oldwick Village
Oldwick Village Garage is your professional European auto repair shop located in Tewksbury. We are proud to be the go-to European auto shop for drivers in surrounding areas like Bridgewater, Bernardsville, Basking Ridge, and Washington Township, NJ.
Oldwick Village Garage takes pride in delivering exceptional servicing for European and exotic vehicles. We deliver the same quality service that you would get from dealers but in a more appealing way by providing our services at an affordable price.
When you visit our shop, you will experience superior service as a result of our years of experience and specialized tools. We schedule and conduct routine maintenance for our customers to help keep their vehicles in good shape. The technicians at Oldwick Village Garage are experts in working on European imports, such as your Mercedes Benz. Contact us now to schedule your next service appointment!
* Mercedes-Benz AMG Car image credit goes to: Artistic Operations.