fionawalter1

DMax DPF Failure

My 2012 Chevrolet DMax, diesel engine, is giving me grief. I'm noticing a real drop in power, especially uphill. Plus, it's blowing smoke like crazy when I accelerate. I've checked for leaks, and the engine's running smoothly, but it feels choked. I suspect the DPF filter and I am not happy, the car shows 179925 km, I keep it like a jewel!

A 2012 Chevrolet DMax diesel engine is experiencing a significant drop in power and excessive smoke during acceleration, likely due to a blocked Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The symptoms include reduced fuel efficiency and a choked engine feel. The suggested solution is to check backpressure readings, which may require a more advanced scanner, and consider DPF replacement or cleaning. Ultimately, the DPF and sensor were replaced, resolving the issue and restoring the vehicle's performance.

Did this summary help you solve your problem?

4 comment(s)

Sounds very much like my DMax! I had the exact same symptoms a while back – loss of power and plumes of smoke. Have you checked the backpressure readings? Could be a blocked DPF, common issue unfortunately. How's your fuel efficiency been lately?

Backpressure readings? I'm not sure how to check that myself. I have a basic OBD2 reader, but I'm not sure if it'll give me that info. And yeah, fuel efficiency has definitely taken a hit. I'm getting way fewer miles per gallon than usual. Is DPF replacement the only option then?

You'd need a more advanced scanner to properly read the backpressure, it's a pain. Given the mileage and the fuel efficiency drop combined with the smoke and power loss, I'd put money on a blocked or failing DPF. Could be a faulty sensor causing it to clog prematurely, but honestly, at that mileage, they often just give up. If you're not able to diagnose this yourself, get it to a decent workshop - they will suggest a new DPF or cleaning it, I'd go for replacement.

I appreciate the advice! I took it to my mechanic, and you were spot on, the DPF was knackered. It cost me 1550€ for a new filter and sensor replacement, but at least the old girl is running like new again!

rmh_community_comment_box_header

community_crosslink_scanner_headline

community_crosslink_scanner_intro

community_crosslink_scanner_title

community_crosslink_scanner_price

community_crosslink_rmh_headline

community_crosslink_rmh_intro

community_crosslink_rmh_title

community_crosslink_rmh_subtitle

community_crosslink_rmh_brand

CHEVROLET

community_crosslink_rmh_model

DMAX