4 most common 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Symptoms – (Fixes!)
It’s safe to say that the 6.4 Powerstroke wasn’t the most famous model produced by Ford. Plagued with issues, this engine garnered a few of the worst reviews I’d seen in a while. A classic example of these issues is a broken EBP sensor. It is not rare for this engine.
Here is a list of the most common 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Symptoms includes:
- Low Fuel Efficiency
- Busted Pipes
- Overheating
- And a completely Dead Engine
The engine loses its way of gauging pressure for various reasons. I’ve covered all those reasons in this article as well. I also talked about how you can fix this issue and what it will cost you. This is a total breakdown of 6.4 Powerstroke EBP sensor issues.
4 common Signs Of A Faulty 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor
The EBP sensor is an integral part of your engine and as such, if it breaks, you will see some very clear symptoms. These 4 warning signs should never be ignored.
1. Low Fuel Efficiency
Do you get the feeling that your tank runs out of gas before you leave the fuel pump? Chances are that this is not just in your head. Especially, if your car previously went much longer without needing a refill.
Your mileage takes a severe hit when the EBP sensor is on the fritz. The reason for this is that the pressure is irregulated and as such, the flow of exhaust won’t be controlled to improve fuel efficiency.
2. Busted Pipes
When too much pressure is stored in a small container, it will likely explode. If the pressure in your exhaust is left unchecked, this may be the case for the pipes in your engine. That’s right, the pipes and connectors in your car could literally burst if your EBP sensor is malfunctioning.
This is an unlikely outcome as it would need the pressure to build up to an extreme amount. This is also the easiest sign to pick up on as you can clearly see these blown pipes the moment you pick up your hood.
3. Overheating
Another sign that is hard to miss is an overheating engine. If you feel like your engine is reaching unreasonable temperatures in a short amount of time, it might be time to take a look at your EBP sensor.
It’s basic science, when pressure increases so do the temperature. In an engine, you need to make sure that everything remains as cool as possible.
4. Dead Engine
You know that something is wrong with your car for certain if your engine never turns on. While it is unlikely that a broken EBP sensor is to blame for a total engine breakdown, you shouldn’t rule out that possibility.
Read also: 7 Most Common 7.3 Powerstroke Low Fuel Pressure Symptoms
Why Your 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Is Malfunctioning?
I’m sure you are curious why your sensor is letting you down. In most cases, the following 4 factors greatly affect your EBP sensor.
1. Bad Installation
Every component in your car needs to be fitted in perfectly. There is no room for error. If the EBP sensor is not put in correctly, it can not accurately read any of the values of pressure. This will lead to all the aforementioned issues.
2. Collision
If you are ever in an accident, rest assured that your EBP sensor will not survive it. This component was not made to suffer great impact and as such, it will likely break in such a scenario.
3. Dirt Accumulation
Keeping your car clean is mandatory. Dirt and debris can do a number on your vehicle. If it finds its way to your EBP sensor, it will certainly alter its readings. Dirt can even affect the readings clogging up the exhaust pipes.
4. Wear And Tear
With proper maintenance, an EBP sensor should virtually last as long as your car. That said, every component has an expiry date. It’s possible that your sensor has simply reached the end of the road.
Read also: 4 Common 7.3 Powerstroke IPR Sensor Failure Symptoms (With Fixes!)
How To Fix 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Symptoms? step by step
Now that you know the warning signs and why they are happening, all that’s left to know is how to fix it. The only answer is a total replacement. These 4 steps tell you how to do that.
Step 1: At-home Diagnosis
You need to be absolutely sure that there is something wrong with your EBP sensor before deciding to swap it out. These 3 tests should help you confirm your suspicion:
- An OBD scan
- A Pressure gauge reading
- Temperature gun reading
Step 2: Finding A Good Mechanic
This is the most vital step of the process. Find a mechanic that you can trust with your car that fits your budget. A cheap low-quality mechanic may end up costing you more money in the future.
Step 3: View The Process
As this replacement will not take more than an hour, I suggest inspecting the entire process to see if it is done right.
Step 4: Intensive Testing
Before leaving the shop and shortly afterward, test your vehicle vehemently. If any of the symptoms persist, it is time to ask for a refund.
6 4L EBP FAILURE – EXHUAST BACK PRESSURE -POWERSTROKE >> Check out the video below:
How Much Does It Cost To EBP Sensor?
The total cost of repairing an EBP sensor should not exceed $200. The cost of parts will be around $100 and the labor cost should be around the same.
It is important to note that each car requires a different sensor and they all cost slightly different. Also, mechanic rates differ greatly based on experience and locality.
6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Symptoms – (FAQs)
An Exhaust Back Pressure (EBP) sensor is a computer that tracks the total pressure caused by the exhaust of your car. These measurements are conveyed to the electronic control unit (ECU) which controls the flow of exhaust. Needless to say, this is a very important component.
It depends on how much you are willing to invest. If you are willing to fork out some extra cash I recommend buying a whole new engine. 6.4 Powerstroke really doesn’t hold up when it comes to modern standards so fixing it isn’t the best decision.
Simply put, you do not have the necessary experience to replace the sensor yourself. It is very likely that you injure yourself when trying to repair this issue. Alternatively, you could do more damage to the car which will end up costing you more money.
You can either buy your parts from the internet or go to a local auto shop. Keep in mind that it is going to be way cheaper on the net. Selling these niche parts with a big markup is how physical stores make a large percentage of their profits.
Clogged fuel filters, broken fuel pumps, and wiring issues all present very similar symptoms. It is difficult to distinguish these problems without a thorough inspection of the entire system.
in verdict
Again here is a list of the most common 6.4 Powerstroke EBP Sensor Symptoms:
- Low Fuel Efficiency
- Busted Pipes
- Overheating
- And a completely Dead Engine
If you see any of these signs, I urge you to act quickly as this problem can become serious in the future. Acting fast is one of the first rules of car maintenance.
Nasruddin is a passionate car enthusiast with a love for troubleshooting and diagnosing all sorts of vehicle problems. With years of experience in OBD diagnostics, Nasruddin, has become an expert in identifying and solving complex automotive issues.