P0401 on Chrysler
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Insufficient
P0401 on Chrysler vehicles indicates exhaust gas recirculation flow insufficient. Au7o has documented this code across 3 Chrysler models — most commonly on Crossfire, PT Cruiser, Sebring. This code means the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is not flowing enough exhaust back into the engine. The EGR system recirculates a small amount of exhaust into the intake to lower combustion temperatures and reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions; the computer has determined the actual flow is below what it commanded. The most common reason is carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or its passages. You may notice pinging/knocking, rough idle, or a check engine light, and the car will fail emissions testing. Typical repair costs on Chrysler range from $150 to $2,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0401
- •Carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or passages
- •Stuck or faulty EGR valve
- •Blocked or restricted EGR ports/tubes
- •Faulty EGR temperature or position sensor
- •Faulty DPFE/EGR pressure sensor (on applicable systems)
- •Vacuum leak or failed vacuum control (vacuum-operated EGR)
- •Wiring or connector problems at the EGR valve
P0401 on Chrysler by Model
Chrysler Crossfire(1 issue)
- EGR Solenoid and Catalytic Converter Failure2004-2008
The Crossfire (built on Mercedes SLK R170 platform, sharing 80% of components) commonly experiences EGR solenoid failures and premature catalytic converter failure. The EGR solenoid is the most common cause of check engine lights. Catalytic converter rattles and fails, especially noticeable when accelerating from cold.
Chrysler PT Cruiser(1 issue)
- EGR Valve Failure and Carbon Buildup2001-2010
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve on the 2.4L engine clogs with carbon deposits and sticks open or closed. When stuck open, it causes rough idle, stalling, and hesitation. When stuck closed, it increases NOx emissions and may trigger a check engine light. The EGR passages in the intake manifold also clog with carbon, reducing effectiveness even with a functioning valve. The turbo model is especially prone due to higher exhaust temperatures.
Chrysler Sebring(1 issue)
- Alternator and PCM-Integrated Voltage Regulator Failure2001-2010
The Sebring's voltage regulator is integrated into the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), not the alternator. This unusual design means a voltage regulator failure requires PCM diagnosis/replacement rather than simple alternator work. Alternators also fail prematurely around 70,000 miles. Ground corrosion and battery terminal strip issues compound the problem.
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View P0401 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0401 mean on Chrysler?▼
P0401 stands for "Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Insufficient." This code means the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is not flowing enough exhaust back into the engine. The EGR system recirculates a small amount of exhaust into the intake to lower combustion temperatures and reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions; the computer has determined the actual flow is below what it commanded. The most common reason is carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or its passages. You may notice pinging/knocking, rough idle, or a check engine light, and the car will fail emissions testing. On Chrysler specifically, this code is documented across 3 models.
What causes P0401 on Chrysler vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chrysler: Carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or passages, Stuck or faulty EGR valve, Blocked or restricted EGR ports/tubes, Faulty EGR temperature or position sensor, Faulty DPFE/EGR pressure sensor (on applicable systems). Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0401 on a Chrysler?▼
Repair costs on Chrysler range from $150 to $2,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chrysler models have P0401 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0401 on 3 Chrysler models: Crossfire, PT Cruiser, Sebring.