What it means
EGR sensor C signal jumps or drops out intermittently. EGR mixes inert exhaust into intake to lower combustion peak temperature — too little raises NOx, too much causes misfires and rough running.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
EGR Sensor C provides the ECU with feedback used to monitor exhaust-gas recirculation. P044E means its signal is intermittent or erratic, so the ECU may lose reliable EGR feedback and disable control or set additional EGR codes.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Intermittent connector
- Connector with intermittent contact under vibration
- Harness routed against vibrating component
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Pinging or knocking under load
- Power loss and hesitation
- Possible rough idle
- Failed emissions inspection (NOx)
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check for related EGR codes to identify when Sensor C’s signal dropped out.
- Inspect Sensor C’s connector and harness for loose terminals, corrosion, chafing, or routing against a vibrating or hot component.
- Watch Sensor C live data while gently moving the harness and connector to see whether the reading jumps or drops out.
- Check the circuit and connector continuity under the manufacturer's procedure, paying attention to intermittent contact.
- If the wiring remains stable, test Sensor C and the ECU input according to the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Secure a loose Sensor C connector or terminal.
- Repair chafed or poorly routed Sensor C wiring.
- Clean or replace terminals with intermittent contact.
- Replace Sensor C if its signal remains erratic with a verified circuit.
Can I keep driving?
Avoid hard acceleration if the engine knocks, hesitates, or loses power, and arrange diagnosis soon. Intermittent EGR feedback can cause unpredictable running and increased emissions; persistent knocking can damage the engine.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.