hey there, 98 ext cab 3.0 v6 5 speed here,changed my oil the other day for the first time since ive had the truck.
used synthetic, and about 20 miles later i get a check engine light (what the hell)
read the code later an get the egr p0401, what could the problem possibly be and directly after i changed the oil? weird. ive put another 100 plus on it and its running better than it was before, because the old oil was burnt no metal at all though.
can anyone send me in a direction...
thanks a bunch

 

Well. For starts. Have you checked the egr valve?

 

no... i was figuring i'd start here and ask if anyone else has had this problem before i start playing around with different things ya know?

 

A code P0401 most likely means one or more of the following has happened:
The DPFE (differential pressure feedback EGR) sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced
There is a blockage in the EGR (tube), most likely carbon buildup
The EGR valve is faulty
The EGR valve may not be opening due to a lack of vaccuum

Use a vacuum pump and pull the EGR valve open while monitoring engine RPM's & DPFE voltage. There should be a noticable difference in RPM's with the EGR open
Clean out the EGR valve and/or tubing to remove deposits
Check the voltage at the DPFE, compare to specified values (refer to a repair manual for your specific model)
Replace the DPFE sensor (with a good quality / OEM one)
Replace the EGR valve
Lastly since there is also a actuator solenoid, you might have to verify that is has not having problems.

Your problem is likely not related to your oil change

 

thanks for copying and pasting something i already read haha thats why i made this thread..
i was just wondering if anyone else has ran into this. after an oil change that is.
ive read adding to much oil will cause a light but its not like im .5 of a quart over or under

 

i tried to find something n the internet to explain clearly has my english is not the best sometime when i tried to go in details.

And if you have already read what i send you how can you not understand that the oil change and the error code are not related but a coincidence

few years back i change my brake on a my mazda. 3 miles after new brake job my alternator die. so it is like if i was asking if my brake job could have cause my alternator to die....lol

 

well in my defense changing your oil has something to do with the engine, which in relation relates with the check engine light,... so you changing your brakes has no direct or any effect on your alternator. but as many people have previously posted the p0401 code isnt necessarily the egr valve ... it can be a number of sensors, intake, airbox, people have them come on leaving their gas cap off. just saying bro

 

lol the check engine light doesnt mean the engine has a problem, you sound like my grand ma lol...im just saying it is not related.. and it is funny you asked, thats it