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DTC codes / GM codes / P1407

P1407 · GMEGR Air Intrusion In Exhaust Supply To EGR Valve

P1407 on a GM vehicle indicates that the engine computer has detected an unexpected air intrusion in the exhaust supply path to the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the EGR system's differential pressure feedback sensor to compare expected exhaust backpressure with actual readings, and it sets this code when the signal suggests outside air is entering the tube that feeds exhaust to the EGR valve.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGM specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illuminated check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
  • Rough idle or idle surge when the engine is cold or at operating temperature
  • Slight hesitation or stumble during light acceleration
  • Poor fuel economy in some cases due to incorrect EGR flow
  • Intermittent engine ping or knock under load if the air intrusion leans the mixture
  • Failed emissions test due to elevated oxides of nitrogen (NOx)

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Cracked or disconnected EGR supply tube between the exhaust manifold and the EGR valve
  2. Loose or missing EGR tube mounting bolts or fittings
  3. Failed gasket at the EGR valve inlet or exhaust manifold connection
  4. Corroded or rusted-through EGR supply pipe, especially on older GM vehicles
  5. Leaking differential pressure feedback EGR sensor or its hose connections
  6. Damaged or misrouted EGR valve vacuum supply line allowing false air
  7. Rarely, a stuck-open EGR valve that creates a reverse flow condition

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the entire EGR supply tube for cracks, rust holes, and loose connections, and repair or replace as needed
  2. Check and replace the EGR tube gaskets at both the exhaust manifold and EGR valve ends
  3. Verify that the differential pressure feedback EGR sensor hoses are secure and free of cracks, and replace the sensor if it is leaking internally
  4. Use a scan tool to monitor EGR pressure sensor readings while wiggling the supply tube to confirm an intermittent leak
  5. Perform a smoke test on the EGR supply system to pinpoint air intrusion points
  6. Clear the code and test-drive the vehicle through the EGR monitor's enable criteria to confirm the repair
  7. If the code returns, check for exhaust manifold cracks or warping that could allow air into the EGR passage

Hidden Causes of P1407 Air Intrusion

  • A loose oil dipstick or missing oil filler cap can sometimes be misdiagnosed as an EGR air intrusion because crankcase vapors affect the pressure sensor readings, so always check those first.
  • The differential pressure feedback EGR sensor itself can develop an internal leak that mimics a cracked supply tube, and replacing the tube without testing the sensor often leads to a repeat code.
  • On some GM engines, a warped exhaust manifold or a failed manifold gasket allows outside air to be drawn into the EGR passage, setting P1407 even though the EGR tube looks perfect.
  • Aftermarket EGR tubes with poor-quality welds or incorrect bends are a common source of repeat P1407 codes, so insist on OEM-quality replacement parts.
  • This code does not always mean the EGR valve is faulty; replacing the valve without diagnosing the supply tube and sensor is a frequent and expensive misdiagnosis.

Can I keep driving with P1407?

You can usually continue driving with P1407, but avoid heavy acceleration and long trips until the leak is repaired because the engine may run lean under load and emissions will be elevated. If you notice rough running or knocking, have it checked promptly.

Guidance is general and written for GM vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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