VW Fox DPF Failure Symptoms and Expert Fix Guide

Had a similar issue with my 2013 VW Polo 1.6 TDI. The symptoms were identical, power loss during acceleration and dark smoke from exhaust. After a vehicle inspection, it turned out the DPF was severely clogged. First tried forced regeneration, but the diesel filter was too contaminated. The mechanic found both a sensor fault and physical damage to the DPF. Complete filter replacement was necessary as the internal honeycomb structure was partially melted. The repair took 2 full days. The new DPF needs careful driving habits for the first 1000km to break in properly. Important to note this is a serious issue that should not be ignored, a failed DPF can cause engine damage if left untreated. For your Fox, recommend getting a proper diagnostic scan first. The smoke and power loss strongly suggest DPF problems, but faulty sensors can sometimes produce similar symptoms. Regular highway drives at consistent speed help prevent future DPF clogging. Most effective solution route: 1. Full diagnostic scan 2. Check sensor readings 3. Attempt DPF cleaning if clogging is moderate 4. Replace filter if cleaning fails An experienced diesel specialist should handle this to avoid complications during repair.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Dealing with a similar DPF problem on my Fox right now. The backpressure readings are off and the engine light keeps coming on despite attempted regeneration cycles. Did the filter replacement completely solve your issues? Also wondering what the final cost was for your repair including parts and labor? My local shop quoted me but Id like to compare prices since these exhaust system repairs can vary quite a bit. Good point about the highway driving. Has everything been running smoothly since the fix, or have you noticed any other problems popping up?

Since replacing the defective diesel particulate filter on my Polo, the vehicle has performed flawlessly. The full repair cost came to 1550€, which included both parts and labor. The backpressure readings returned to normal and the engine light hasnt appeared since. The exhaust system now works perfectly, no more power loss or smoke issues during acceleration. Regular highway driving has helped maintain optimal DPF function. The vehicle inspection readings show proper regeneration cycles are happening automatically as designed. Worth mentioning that proper filter replacement completely resolved the initial problems. After 6 months of regular use, the engine performance remains strong with no warning lights or issues. Just ensure you follow the break-in period recommendations if you go for a replacement. Looking at your Fox symptoms, persistent engine light and failed regeneration attempts, sounds exactly like what I experienced before the repair. These are classic signs of a DPF thats beyond cleaning and likely needs replacement.

I finally took my Fox to a certified diesel specialist after getting more concerned about the ongoing DPF issues. The diagnostic scan confirmed what we suspected, a severely clogged diesel filter that was preventing proper regeneration cycles. The mechanic found heavy soot buildup and damage to the filter structure. Attempted cleaning wasnt an option given the deterioration. The full filter replacement took about 8 hours of work. Total cost came to 1350€ including a new pressure sensor that was also showing problems. The fuel efficiency has improved significantly since the repair. The exhaust system is working properly now with no more smoke or power loss during acceleration. Following the break-in guidelines by doing regular highway drives at steady speeds. Really glad I got it fixed properly rather than trying temporary solutions. The engine runs smoother and the warning lights have stayed off. Will definitely keep up with the recommended driving patterns to prevent future DPF clogging. Worth every cent to have the peace of mind knowing the problem is properly solved. The exhaust readings are all back to normal specs now. Thanks again for helping confirm my suspicions about needing a complete filter replacement.