egr check engine sensor

[sfetch]

I got a check engine light (cel) on my 2001 Windturd and took it to my local mechanic. The cel indicated that the egr valve was bad. Replaced it w/ a ford part and had the system cleaned. 200 miles later the cel is back. I'm guessing that I might have a bad sensor. Anyway to check the sensor to see if it's good. I prefer using ford parts because they are typically improved to overcome warranty issues versus aftermarket parts. Problem is that Ford won't take a return on an electrical part. I don't want waste any cash on the sensor if I can check it out first. My question is twofold:
1. can I check the sensor?
2. Am I barking up the wrong tree w/ the sensor and might it be something else?

I'd appreciate any insight or help offered. Thanks

[wiswind]

The DPFE (EGR flow sensor) is a common failure item.
It is not an expensive part, and is easy to replace.
If it were me.....I would just replace it.

[12Ounce]

Ditto.

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by 12Ounce

Ditto.

I agree with the replacement but in direct answer to your question they can be checked.

I did mine a few months back (maybe 10 months) and I know I posted all of the information either on this forum or Cartrackers.com. I know one can't post on cartrackers but I still think you can read old posts.

I got the info from a Haynes manual so you can find it there.

Basically you measure the return signal from the DPFE at idle and then with the EGR open (by using a vacuum gauge). If you can't find the infrormtion I will be happy to look it up for you.

As was mentioned these are common failure items. The new style is black plastic and the old design is alluminium.

[sfetch]

Finally got around to getting the sensor from Ford. Installed in about 5 minutes and fixed the problem. The guy at the parts counter said that even the new version is a high failure item. Thanks for the input. CEL is dead for now. Really appreciate the input.

[way2old]

If this happens again, check voltage on the return wire. It should be around 1 volt with key on engine off. Then apply vacuum to EGR and see if voltage climbs to about 4 volts. Should move slowly with the vacuum being applied slowly also. 5 inhg vacuum should open the EGR fully.