GLA Diesel DPF Concerns and Solutions

I had similar issues with my GLA. DPF problems are common. Reduced power and smoke are classic symptoms. Have you checked the exhaust backpressure sensor? A faulty sensor can trigger unnecessary regenerations, or prevent them entirely. Also, 'regeneration' is the process where the car burns off the soot collected in the DPF. If the filter is too clogged, regeneration might not be effective, and cleaning or replacement becomes necessary. What sort of driving do you typically do? Short trips can prevent the DPF from reaching the necessary temperature for proper regeneration.

Thanks for the insights. Regarding the exhaust backpressure sensor, where is it located exactly, and what would be considered normal readings? Also, my driving is mostly highway miles, but I do have occasional short city trips. Considering the mileage, would a DPF cleaning be a sensible first step, or is a filter replacement the more prudent option?

The exhaust backpressure sensor is typically located either directly on the DPF or very close to it, often upstream. Normal readings vary by manufacturer, but excessively high readings at idle or during acceleration point to blockage. Given your mileage and the severity of the symptoms – reduced power, smoke – I suspect a DPF cleaning might only be a temporary fix. The risk is spending money on cleaning, only to find it still needs replacement shortly after. A competent workshop will be able to perform a proper vehicle inspection and advise on the best course of action, but prepare for a filter replacement.

Appreciate the advice. I took the vehicle to a workshop for a comprehensive inspection. The diagnosis confirmed a severely clogged DPF, beyond the point of effective cleaning. I opted for a filter replacement, which cost around 1550€. The vehicle now runs smoothly, and the symptoms have disappeared.