paulastern1
VW Fox DPF Sensor Nightmare: Failed Regen Alert
Summary of the thread
The VW Fox is experiencing exhaust sensor issues, leading to warning lights and smoke during acceleration, with the DPF failing to regenerate. Diagnostics suggest a problem with the exhaust back pressure sensor, which can cause incomplete DPF regeneration and poor engine performance. A similar issue in a VW Polo was resolved by replacing the faulty sensor, cleaning mounting points, and performing a forced DPF regeneration. The repair restored normal engine performance and cleared warning lights, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnostics and sensor replacement for effective DPF function.
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4 comment(s)
paulastern1 (community.author)
Thanks for sharing those details about your Polo repair. I had nearly identical symptoms with my Fox last winter, the smoke and DPF issues were very concerning. After getting it fixed, everything has been running smoothly for months now. Just checking, do you remember approximately what the total repair cost was for your sensor replacement and regen? Also, has your exhaust system given you any more trouble since the fix? Asking because I want to make sure mine was priced fairly and the repair quality was up to standard.
ReinKress
Thanks for asking about the repair costs. Got my VW Polo fixed a while back and the total came to 245€ for the complete exhaust back pressure sensor replacement and system reset. This price included both parts and labor, plus the forced DPF regeneration after installation. Since completing the auto repair, the exhaust system has performed flawlessly. The vehicle diagnostics show normal readings, and I have not seen any warning lights or smoke issues. The DPF regenerates as it should, which confirms the pressure sensor is working correctly. Regular car maintenance checks show everything is running properly in the exhaust system. Based on my experience, your Fox repair should deliver similar reliable results if done properly. A properly functioning exhaust back pressure sensor is crucial for the DPF system to work effectively.
paulastern1 (community.author)
After visiting three different shops, I finally got my Fox fixed at a specialist workshop. The repair cost was 280€, slightly more than yours but included a thorough vehicle diagnostics check and system calibration. The exhaust sensor replacement took about 5 hours because they discovered some carbon buildup that needed cleaning. The mechanic showed me the old sensor which was completely clogged. After the car maintenance was done, they performed a complete DPF regeneration cycle. Been three months now and my vehicle emissions are normal. No more warning lights or smoke issues during acceleration. The engine performance is back to how it should be, and the auto repair has definitely proved worth the investment. Regular checks show the exhaust system is working perfectly. Really glad I asked here first, helped me understand what to expect and confirm the repair price was reasonable. Will definitely keep monitoring the DPF regeneration cycles to catch any future issues early.
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VW
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FOX
ReinKress
Had the same exhaust sensor issues with my VW Polo TDI (2014). The faulty exhaust back pressure sensor severely impacted the DPF system performance, causing incomplete regeneration cycles and excessive smoke. Vehicle diagnostics confirmed the exhaust system malfunction through error codes. The sensor readings were inconsistent, causing the engine control unit to miscalculate exhaust flow. This led to poor engine performance and increased vehicle emissions. The car maintenance required removing the old sensor, cleaning the mounting points, and installing a new exhaust back pressure sensor. The repair also included a forced DPF regeneration to clear accumulated particles. This was a serious issue since a failing sensor can lead to complete DPF blockage and potential engine damage. The auto repair took about 4 hours total. After replacement, the engine performance returned to normal, warning lights cleared, and the DPF started regenerating properly again. Regular diagnostics since then show normal exhaust system operation. Make sure to get the sensor replaced at a shop with proper diagnostic equipment for German vehicles. They need to perform a system reset and regeneration after installing the new sensor.