Power Loss & DPF Issues in Astra, Need Help!

I had a similar issue with my 2012 Vauxhall Insignia (2.0L petrol) last summer. Based on your symptoms, it sounds very familiar. The DPF being severely clogged was the main problem in my case. Had to take it to a specialized Vauxhall garage as my regular mechanic couldn't properly diagnose it. They found that not only was the DPF completely blocked, but the back pressure sensor was also giving false readings, which prevented proper regeneration cycles. The sensor wasn't picking up the actual pressure levels, so the car's computer wasn't triggering the regen when needed. It was quite a serious issue that needed immediate attention, left untreated, it could've damaged the engine. They had to do a forced DPF regeneration, replace the pressure sensor, and clean the entire exhaust system. Car's been running perfectly since then, no power loss issues anymore. My suggestion? Get it to a Vauxhall specialist, they'll have the right diagnostic tools to properly check the DPF and sensor systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience, that's really helpful! Sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. Good to know the specialist garage sorted it out properly. Would you mind telling me roughly how much the whole repair set you back? Also, has everything stayed running smoothly since then, or have you noticed any other issues pop up? I'm trying to figure out if I should prepare for any follow-up problems. BTW, I've found a Vauxhall specialist nearby that seems decent, but they're pretty booked up at the moment. Might have to wait a couple of weeks.

Hey again! Happy to help update you on my Insignia situation. Since getting it fixed at the Vauxhall specialist last summer, it's been running like a dream, no kidding! The exhaust back pressure sensor that was playing up got sorted, and they did a proper job cleaning out the severely overloaded DPF. Set me back 1325.00 €, which wasn't cheap, but honestly worth every penny considering how smoothly everything's running now. Zero issues since then, no more power loss, no warning lights, and the DPF's doing its regeneration cycles perfectly. Best decision I made was getting it to the specialist rather than trying quick fixes elsewhere. About having to wait a couple weeks, yeah, it's annoying, but good specialists are usually worth the wait. Maybe see if they can put you on a cancellation list? That's how I got lucky and got mine in sooner. Just try not to push the car too hard while you're waiting for the appointment, these DPF issues can get worse pretty quick if you're not careful. Let me know how it goes when you get it sorted!

Just wanted to update everyone, finally got my Astra sorted! Took it to that Vauxhall specialist I mentioned, and turns out you were spot on. The back pressure sensor was definitely the culprit, along with a seriously clogged DPF. Cost me about 1200€ in the end, which was roughly what I expected after hearing your experience. They did a complete DPF clean, replaced the sensor, and gave the exhaust system a good once-over. The two-week wait was annoying, but honestly, it was worth it. Took it for a proper drive yesterday, and what a difference! The power's back, no more warning lights, and it's running smoother than it has in months. Feels like I've got a different car! Thanks again for all the advice, really helped me avoid wasting time and money at less qualified places. For anyone reading this with similar issues, definitely go straight to a specialist. Lesson learned!