Atlas DPF Sensor Failure Causing Smoke and Regen Issues

Had the same emission control problem on my Touareg TDI from 2019. The exhaust back pressure sensor was completely blocked with carbon deposits, preventing proper DPF regeneration cycles. The vehicle diagnostics initially showed error code P2452, and the engine performance was notably reduced. The smoke under acceleration is a clear indicator of DPF issues caused by incorrect pressure readings. The repair involved removing and cleaning the pressure sensor ports, plus replacing the actual sensor unit since it was damaged beyond repair. The mechanic also performed a forced DPF regeneration after the new sensor installation to clear accumulated particulates. This is definitely a serious issue that needs immediate attention, if left unfixed, it can lead to complete DPF failure and potential engine damage. The clogged sensor prevents the engine control unit from properly managing the emission control system. The repair took about 4 hours in total. Since then, the DPF has been regenerating normally and engine performance returned to normal. Regular engine oil changes and highway drives help prevent this issue from recurring.

Dealing with the same problem on my VW Atlas right now. The exhaust system warning lights and smoke issues match exactly what you described. My back pressure sensor also failed, causing similar DPF regeneration problems. Just wondering what kind of costs you ended up paying for the complete fix? Also curious if you noticed any other emission control issues popping up since the repair was done. The auto repair shop gave me a quote but Id like to compare before committing. Been running mostly short trips lately which probably didnt help with the DPF health and engine performance. Planning to change my driving habits after this gets sorted.

Just got the Atlas back from the repair shop last week where they fixed the exhaust back pressure sensor malfunction. Total cost came to 245€ for the complete repair, including the new sensor unit and labor. The vehicle diagnostics confirm everything is working perfectly now, no more warning lights or smoke issues. The DPF regeneration cycles are running normally, and the emission control system is performing as it should. The engine performance improved noticeably right after the fix. No additional problems have surfaced since the repair. The auto repair technician recommended driving at highway speeds for at least 20 minutes weekly to help maintain proper DPF function. Following this advice has kept the exhaust system running smoothly. Your short trips definitely contributed to the sensor failure due to carbon buildup. Longer drives help prevent these vehicle emissions issues by allowing complete regeneration cycles. The investment in fixing the back pressure sensor was worth it to avoid more expensive DPF repairs down the line.

I took my Atlas to the shop yesterday after reading these responses. The auto repair experience was actually much better than expected. They diagnosed the exact same pressure sensor issue and DPF problems mentioned here. The vehicle diagnostics confirmed the faulty back pressure sensor. Total repair came to 280€ which included cleaning the sensor ports and installing a new sensor unit. The emission control system is now working perfectly, no more warning lights or smoke issues. The mechanic showed me the carbon buildup they cleaned out, explaining how my short trip driving pattern caused the problem. Been taking longer routes home since the repair to help with proper DPF regeneration. Engine performance has definitely improved and the car runs much smoother under acceleration. Really glad I checked the forum before going in. Having this information helped me understand the repair process and confirm the shop was doing the right fixes. Thanks for helping me avoid another repair disaster.