P0404 EGR A control circuit range/performance
What P0404 means
The engine control unit commands the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve to a position, but the feedback shows it is not getting there. Most often the valve is sticking from carbon deposits.
P0404 is a generic SAE J2012 code: it means the same on every make. The exact cause still depends on the car, so read the freeze-frame data before replacing parts.
At a glance
- Severity
- Medium
- Typical repair cost
- 80–600 €
- Workshop time
- 0.5–3 h
- Repair difficulty
- Medium
- DIY possible
- No
- Check engine light
- Yes
- Affects emissions test
- Yes
Parts and labour at an independent workshop in Europe. Main dealers charge more; the cause decides the bill, not the code.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle or stalling
- Hesitation under acceleration
- Reduced power or limp mode on some diesels
Common causes
- Carbon deposits making the EGR valve stick
- Worn EGR valve or failing valve motor
- Faulty EGR position sensor built into the valve
- Poor connection at the EGR valve connector
Can I keep driving with P0404?
You can keep driving, but have it looked at within one to two weeks. Cleaning the EGR valve often solves it.
What to check first
- Compare commanded and actual EGR position in live data
- Check the connector and wiring at the EGR valve
- Remove the valve and clean carbon from the valve and passages
- Replace the valve if it still sticks or the position sensor reading is erratic
Related codes
- P0403 EGR A control circuit/open
- P0405 EGR sensor A circuit low
- P0402 EGR flow excessive detected
- P0406 EGR sensor A circuit high
- P0401 Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) A flow insufficient
- P0400 Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) A flow malfunction
- P0410 Secondary air injection system A
- P0411 Secondary air injection system incorrect flow detected
Data: TORKO fault-code catalogue, built on OBDex (CC0-1.0) and reviewed against workshop practice. Informational only — it does not replace a diagnosis by a mechanic.
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