Polo TDI Power Loss & Black Smoke: DPF Alert Guide

Last year, my Golf 2.0 TDI from 2011 showed similar symptoms, power loss, dark smoke, and the engine light indicating a sensor fault related to the exhaust system. Initial diagnostics confirmed the diesel filter was severely clogged. A regeneration cycle was attempted first but proved unsuccessful due to excessive soot buildup. The DPF was beyond cleaning and required complete replacement. The repair involved: Removing the old diesel filter, Installing new DPF unit, Replacing associated sensors, Computer reset and system check, Test drive to confirm proper regeneration cycles This was a serious repair that required specialized equipment. The symptoms you describe match exactly what happened with my car, especially the dark smoke during acceleration, which typically indicates the DPF is no longer functioning properly. The engine light combined with performance issues strongly suggests your DPF needs attention. Would recommend getting it diagnosed soon, as continuing to drive with a failing DPF can lead to more expensive engine damage. A professional diagnostic scan will quickly determine if regeneration is still possible or if replacement is needed. Make sure the shop has experience with VW diesel systems, as proper coding is essential after DPF work.

Thanks for sharing your DPF experience. My Polo had the exact same symptoms last summer. The dark smoke and power loss got really bad before I had it looked at. A full filter replacement ended up being necessary since the DPF cleaning wasnt enough to solve the sensor fault. Did you track what other parts needed changing with the new filter? And would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was? Mine was a while ago and Im curious if prices have increased since then. No issues with the exhaust system since the fix but always good to hear others experiences with similar repairs.

Thanks for asking about the follow-up details. Since having the defective diesel particulate filter replaced, my car has been running perfectly with no backpressure issues or engine light warnings. The complete repair included replacing several connected components: New DPF unit, Pressure sensors, Gaskets and mounting hardware, Temperature probe, Software update for the engine management system Total cost came to 1550€ for parts and labor. This was actually reasonable considering the specialized work involved. The exhaust system has been working flawlessly since the filter replacement, no more dark smoke or power loss during acceleration. The investment was worth it to restore proper DPF function and protect the engine. Regular highway driving helps maintain the new filter by allowing proper regeneration cycles. Monitoring fuel quality and oil change intervals also helps prevent premature DPF clogging. Good to hear your Polo is also running well after the repair. These diesel filter issues are fairly common at higher mileages but addressing them promptly helps avoid more serious engine problems.

I took my Polo to a certified VW workshop after your feedback, good thing I did. The vehicle inspection confirmed the DPF was completely clogged. The cleaning service wasnt enough since the filter was too damaged. The total bill came to 1700€ including: New diesel filter unit, Pressure and temperature sensors, Required gaskets, Labor costs, System programming The fuel efficiency has improved significantly since the repair. No more dark smoke or power loss during acceleration. The engine light cleared after the fix and hasnt returned. Really glad I got it sorted before causing additional engine damage. The mechanic recommended longer highway drives to help maintain proper regeneration cycles. They also suggested using premium diesel and keeping up with oil changes to extend the new filters life. Looking back, ignoring the symptoms would have led to bigger problems. The repair wasnt cheap but necessary to keep the car running properly. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it helped make the right decision.