Hey there, I faced something similar with my 2014 Dacia Sandero. Now, I'm not a car expert, but I'd say I have some experience tinkering around. The same symptoms like yours led me to my workshop. The fault was spot on; there were awful exhaust system leaks. The workshop welded it back to place, refreshed a few other bits and there we are, problem solved. It cost me around 265 Euro, pretty reasonable, right? I suggest you get your Duster checked as soon as possible. Can you tell us more about the mileage and how often you service your vehicle? Maybe that can give us a better idea. Stay safe and good luck!

Hey, thanks for sharing your experience! My Duster's mileage is currently sitting at 145204 KM. As for the services, I'd say I've been pretty regular about it, at least once a year or whenever the warning light signals. Now, I'm off to book an appointment with my workshop. Hopefully, they'll be able to fix it without making my wallet cry too much. Will keep you guys posted about the outcome!

Good luck at your workshop check-up! To be honest, your servicing seems to be fairly regular, which is great. Just remember, these issues tend to sneak up on you when you least expect. When I had mine sorted, I remember the mechanic telling me that the temperature sensor might be the culprit sometimes. If the sensor isn't reading correctly, the information it feeds to your car's computer system will be wrong. I mean, an incorrect exhaust gas temperature could disrupt the DPF regeneration process, and that explains the drop in power and those bizarre smells. Anyway, fingers crossed it's just an exhaust system leak or something less wallet-crushing for you! In my case, those 265 Euro covered everything, including labour and parts, which was a relief. Keep us in the loop about how it goes, and hopefully they'll get your Duster back to its old self. Drive safe!

Hey! I appreciate the kind words and advice! I'll definitely keep an eye on that temperature sensor. Fingers crossed they can figure it out and get it repaired. I didn't even think about the needless disruption in the DPF regeneration process due to a faulty sensor reading; thanks for shedding some light! I'm now more certain that the issue is with the sensor than I was before and that's a great position to be in before hitting the workshop. Will make sure to let you guys in on the progress. Keep safe and keep those engines roaring, folks!