P0404 on Saturn
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/Performance
P0404 on Saturn vehicles indicates exhaust gas recirculation circuit range/performance. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Saturn model — most commonly on S-Series. This code means the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system isn't performing within its expected range. The EGR valve routes a metered amount of exhaust gas back into the intake to lower combustion temperatures and reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions, and the computer monitors the valve's actual position versus what it commanded. When the valve sticks, moves incorrectly, or the feedback doesn't match the command, P0404 sets. This can cause rough idle, hesitation, pinging, and increased emissions. Typical repair costs on Saturn range from $20 to $250, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0404
- •Carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or passages
- •Sticking or failed EGR valve
- •Faulty EGR position sensor
- •Corroded or loose EGR connector
- •Damaged or shorted EGR wiring
- •Vacuum leak or failed vacuum control (on vacuum-operated systems)
- •Clogged EGR cooler or tubes
- •Faulty PCM/ECM (rare)
P0404 on Saturn by Model
Saturn S-Series(1 issue)
- EGR Valve Clogging Causing P0401/P0404/P1404 Codes1996-1999
Beginning with OBD-II in 1996, the Saturn S-Series 1.9L EGR system is highly susceptible to carbon clogging. The narrow gap between the EGR pintle and its passage is easily fouled by exhaust carbon, especially on engines that burn oil (a chronic issue on this engine — see the oil consumption issue). The most common codes are P0401 (insufficient EGR flow), P0404 (EGR control circuit range/performance), and the Saturn-specific P1404 (EGR closed position). Replacing the valve alone rarely fixes the problem because the EGR passages in the cylinder head and intake manifold are also clogged. The condition worsens markedly once oil consumption begins.
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View P0404 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0404 mean on Saturn?▼
P0404 stands for "Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/Performance." This code means the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system isn't performing within its expected range. The EGR valve routes a metered amount of exhaust gas back into the intake to lower combustion temperatures and reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions, and the computer monitors the valve's actual position versus what it commanded. When the valve sticks, moves incorrectly, or the feedback doesn't match the command, P0404 sets. This can cause rough idle, hesitation, pinging, and increased emissions. On Saturn specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0404 on Saturn vehicles?▼
Common causes on Saturn: Carbon buildup clogging the EGR valve or passages, Sticking or failed EGR valve, Faulty EGR position sensor, Corroded or loose EGR connector, Damaged or shorted EGR wiring. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0404 on a Saturn?▼
Repair costs on Saturn range from $20 to $250, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Saturn models have P0404 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0404 on 1 Saturn model: S-Series.