Suzuki Ignis loses power + black smoke = DPF warning signs

Last month I dealt with nearly identical symptoms on my 2008 Suzuki Swift Diesel. The reduced power and dark smoke were clear indicators of exhaust system problems, specifically related to the DPF. After inspection, the issue was confirmed as a faulty exhaust back pressure sensor, not the particulate filter itself. The sensor was providing incorrect readings to the engine management system, causing the engine to run in limp mode and preventing proper DPF regeneration. The symptoms match your case quite well, engine warning light, power loss, and excessive smoke during acceleration. These are classic signs of DPF issues, but the root cause is often the sensor rather than the filter. A blocked particulate filter usually shows different behavior patterns. The repair involved replacing the pressure sensor and performing a forced DPF regeneration to clear any buildup that occurred while the system was malfunctioning. This was a serious issue that needed immediate attention to prevent potential damage to the exhaust system and DPF. Would strongly recommend getting the back pressure sensor checked first before assuming a complete DPF replacement is needed.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the faulty sensor. I had the exact same issue with my Ignis back in June with similar symptoms, reduced power and emission control problems. The pressure sensor reading was completely off, causing DPF regeneration to fail. Have you had any problems since getting it fixed? And if you dont mind sharing, what was the total cost for the sensor replacement and regeneration service? Just want to compare since repair costs can vary quite a bit for these diesel exhaust issues.

Since having the exhaust back pressure sensor replaced, my Swift has been running perfectly. The emission control system is working as intended and the DPF regeneration cycles complete normally. The dark smoke and power loss issues disappeared completely after the repair. The total cost came to 245€ for the sensor replacement, which included the diagnostic work and a forced regeneration cycle to reset the diesel exhaust system. This turned out to be a fair price considering the specialized nature of DPF-related repairs. The investment was definitely worth it, no warning lights or performance issues in the past 6 months. The engine runs smoothly and the exhaust system maintains proper pressure levels during all driving conditions. Its good to hear you experienced similar symptoms and presumably got it sorted as well.

Thanks to everyone who replied! Just wanted to update on how things turned out. Took my Ignis to a different mechanic yesterday who specializes in diesel engines. They diagnosed the same issue, a faulty pressure sensor affecting the particulate filter system. The repair bill came to 290€ including parts and labor. They replaced the exhaust pressure sensor and ran a complete DPF regeneration cycle. The reduced power issue cleared up immediately and the engine warning light is now off. No more dark smoke from the exhaust either. The emission control system is working perfectly now and the engine feels much more responsive. Definitely glad I asked here first, saved me from potentially paying for an unnecessary full DPF replacement that the first mechanic suggested.