what would be wise to change first? some common problems to fix before i go out and by a dpfe sensor or even a new egr? common vacuum leaks? anything? help lol cel keeps coming on more frequent

If you're going with the odds, it's >99% probability that the DPFE is to blame. Before you just replace it, you can try taking it off and letting it dry overnight. That will sometimes bring it back to life for a while.

I got the same code running. Everyone says it's more than likely the DPFE sensor. On top of that if you plan on getting a new DPFE sensor get the plastic one not the metal looking one. If it isn't the DPFE sensor then like you said it could be the lines or a EGR valve failure.

Make sure to check for cuts in the vaccuum lines, EGR tube (from EGR valve to manifold), wiring, etc. Next, try some carb cleaner in the EGR valve, someone on RPS told me about that.

Personally, I have this issue about every 6 months. I automatically buy an EGR valve and a DPFE sensor, then I change one of them and if the CEL doesn't come on again then I am done. If the CEL comes on then I change the other part.

Every 6 months? That's alittle excessive I think. Mabye you need to look into what's making your EGR valve and DPFE sensor fail. It might end up saving you some money let alone going under the hood every 6 months.