BMW X2 DPF Troubles: Smoke, Performance & Failed Tests

Hi there! I had a similar issue with my 2016 BMW X1 diesel last year. Those symptoms sound exactly like what I experienced, it was definitely the exhaust back pressure sensor acting up. Mine also had DPF warnings, poor performance, and the whole regen system went crazy. Took it to my regular workshop, and they confirmed the sensor was faulty. The repair was straightforward, they replaced the sensor and reset the system. Cost me 245 Euro, and the car's been running perfectly since then. No more smoke, better performance, and DPF working as it should. Before I can give you more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your X2? When was your last DPF regeneration? Any other warning lights besides the check engine? By the way, if you're considering replacing the sensor, make sure to get it done at a workshop that regularly deals with BMW diesels. Getting the calibration right is crucial.

Thanks for the detailed response! My X2 has 183400 KM on the clock. Just had it serviced last month, but these issues started popping up recently. You're spot on about the symptoms, really sounds like what I'm experiencing. Good to know it could be just the sensor and not the entire DPF system that needs replacement. That repair cost seems reasonable compared to what I was worried about. The only other warning I'm getting is the EML light, but no other dash warnings. Haven't been able to track when the last successful regen happened since the system seems to be failing at completing it. Think I'll take your advice and find a BMW specialist. Rather pay a bit more for someone who knows what they're doing than risk having it done wrong. Thanks for sharing your experience, gives me hope it's not as bad as I initially thought!

Hey again! Thanks for providing those details about your X2. Yeah, when you mention those mileage numbers and symptoms, I'm even more convinced it's the same issue I had with my X1. Just to add to what I shared before, after they replaced my sensor, the mechanic actually showed me the old one, and it was completely gunked up. That's why it was giving false readings to the ECU, which explains why the regen cycles weren't triggering properly. The EML light showing up alongside the DPF warning was exactly what I experienced too. It's the car's way of protecting itself when it can't get accurate readings from the exhaust system. Mine also struggled with completing regens before the fix. One thing I forgot to mention, after they replaced my sensor, they had to do a forced regen to clear out the built-up soot. Might be worth asking your mechanic about that too. The whole process took about 4 hours at my workshop, including the regen cycle. Quick tip from my experience, once it's fixed, try to include more longer drives in your routine. Since getting mine sorted, I make sure to do at least one 20-minute highway run each week, and haven't had any DPF issues since. Let me know how it goes with your X2. Always good to compare notes with fellow BMW owners!

Thanks so much for all this extra info! It's super helpful to hear about the gunked-up sensor you saw, makes total sense why the system's been acting up. I've actually already called a BMW specialist and booked it in for next week. Good shout about the forced regen, I'll definitely mention that when I take it in. The 4-hour timeframe helps me plan my day better too. I hadn't thought about the longer drives being important after the fix, but it makes perfect sense. I'll make sure to include those weekly highway runs you suggested. Really appreciate you taking the time to share all your experience. You've saved me a lot of worry and probably some money too, I was half expecting to need a whole new DPF system! Will definitely update the forum once it's sorted. Thanks again for all your help!

Hi everyone, I have a DPF problem with my 2019 BMW x2 Diesel automatic with 109,000km. I could smell exhaust fumes coming from the interior air vents and outside the car, no warning lights were on and no loss of performance or black smoke. After trying a forced regeneration by my mechanic, which failed, we had the DPF cleaned. The following day the engine warning light came on and the error message referred to the exhaust sensor. What I can't understand is why this nauseating smell enters the passenger compartment, but only when I reverse or am stationary. My mechanic advises me to bypass the DPF. Any advice on this? Thanks

(Translated from Italian)

Hi everyone, I have a DPF problem with my 2019 BMW x2 Diesel automatic car with 109,000 km. I could smell exhaust fumes coming from the interior air vents and outside the car, no warning lights and no loss of performance or black smoke. After trying a forced regeneration by my mechanic, which failed, we had the DPF cleaned. The following day the engine warning light came on and the error message referred to the exhaust sensor. What I can't understand is why this nauseating smell enters the passenger compartment, but only when I reverse or am stationary. My mechanic advises me to bypass the DPF. Any advice on this? Thanks

(Translated from Italian)

The smell of exhaust fumes entering the cabin is concerning and could indicate a leak in the exhaust system, possibly near the engine bay or under the vehicle. This is a safety issue, as inhaling exhaust fumes can be harmful. I recommend having a thorough inspection of the exhaust system, including the manifold, gaskets, and connections, to identify any leaks. Bypassing the DPF is not advisable as it can lead to legal and environmental issues. Please have a qualified mechanic check the exhaust system for leaks as soon as possible. Let us know how it goes or if you have further questions.

The smell of exhaust fumes entering the cabin is concerning and could indicate a leak in the exhaust system, possibly near the engine bay or under the vehicle. This is a safety issue, as inhaling exhaust fumes can be harmful. I recommend having a thorough inspection of the exhaust system, including the manifold, gaskets, and connections, to identify any leaks. Bypassing the DPF is not advisable as it can lead to legal and environmental issues. Please have a qualified mechanic check the exhaust system for leaks as soon as possible. Let us know how it goes or if you have further questions.

Before this problem, an injector was leaking, and a smell entered the passenger compartment. After having it fixed, unfortunately the smell remained (different and much fainter). I would like to understand if this damned smell is due to the DPF or not... and eventually how to solve the problem of the clogged DPF (is it enough to change the exhaust sensor as per diagnosis?). Thanks

(Translated from Italian)

Since you've already had an injector leak, it's possible that some residual fuel or exhaust fumes are still present in the engine bay, which could be causing the smell. Ensure that the area around the injectors is thoroughly cleaned. As for the DPF issue, replacing the exhaust sensor could help if it's faulty and causing incorrect readings, which might prevent proper DPF regeneration. However, it's crucial to address any potential exhaust leaks first, as they could contribute to both the smell and DPF issues. Keep us updated on your progress or if you have more questions.