Avensis Diesel Exhaust Smell Power Loss

Greetings. Your symptoms suggest a potential issue with the diesel particulate filter system. Given the reduced power and exhaust anomalies, the DPF could be compromised. A pressure differential test across the DPF would be informative. Do you have access to diagnostic tools that can read live data from the exhaust back pressure sensor? A defective sensor might falsely report low pressure, triggering the warning light and affecting engine performance.

Thanks for the quick reply! I don't have any fancy diagnostic tools, unfortunately. So, if the exhaust back pressure sensor is defective, could that really cause all these problems? Is there a way to check it without specialized equipment?

Affirmative. A faulty exhaust back pressure sensor can indeed manifest those symptoms. The engine control unit relies on accurate pressure readings for optimal DPF regeneration and overall engine management. Without specific tools, a definitive diagnosis is challenging. However, given the age of your Avensis and the confluence of symptoms, I recommend a visit to a qualified workshop for a comprehensive evaluation of the exhaust system and sensor integrity.

Thanks so much for the advice! I took it to a workshop, and you were spot on. It turned out to be the exhaust back pressure sensor. They replaced it, and everything is back to normal. Cost me 245€, but well worth it. Really appreciate the help!