VW Touareg DPF Failure Causing Power Loss & Smoke

As someone with moderate experience working on diesel engines, I dealt with a very similar issue on my 2020 VW Tiguan diesel last winter. The symptoms matched exactly what you describe, reduced power mode, warning lights, and that distinctive exhaust smell during acceleration. After running diagnostics, it turned out the exhaust back pressure sensor was faulty, sending incorrect readings to the emission control system. This caused the DPF regeneration cycle to malfunction, leading to those symptoms you mentioned. The repair cost was 245€ including parts and labor. The fix was straightforward once properly diagnosed, replacing the defective sensor resolved all issues. No extensive exhaust work was needed, and the DPF itself was actually in good condition. Before jumping to conclusions though, could you share: What error codes are you getting? How many kilometers since the last DPF regeneration? Have you noticed any changes in fuel consumption? Did the problem appear suddenly or gradually? This information would help determine if your issue is identical to what I experienced or if it might be something different in the DPF system.

Had the DPF issue checked by a certified mechanic and getting better results now. The pressure sensor showed incorrect low pressure readings causing failed DPF regeneration cycles. After replacing the faulty sensor for 290€ and running a forced regeneration, power is back to normal with no more warning lights or exhaust issues. Coming up on 14365km now and had the repair done during my latest service interval. The diesel exhaust system is functioning properly again with normal back pressure readings.

Glad to hear you got it sorted out, sounds exactly like what happened with my Tiguan. These diesel particulate filter issues can be tricky to diagnose, but a faulty pressure sensor is often the culprit when seeing those low pressure readings and regeneration problems. The 290€ repair cost is in line with what I paid. Since fixing the sensor, my diesel engine has been running perfectly with no warning lights or power reduction. The proper pressure readings allow the DPF system to regenerate normally now. Just keep an eye on your diesel exhaust back pressure readings during your next few service intervals to ensure the new sensor continues working correctly. Based on my experience, once the faulty sensor is replaced, these problems rarely come back. The quick resolution with just a sensor replacement rather than needing a full particulate filter replacement definitely saved you some significant repair costs. These modern diesel emission control systems are quite reliable when all sensors are working properly.

Thanks for explaining how you resolved the DPF issue, really helpful to hear about your successful repair. Those false low pressure readings from the faulty sensor were clearly disrupting the whole exhaust system. Great that replacing the pressure sensor for 290€ fixed both the reduced power problem and the regeneration cycles. Just had the 15000km service done and the mechanic confirmed the diesel engine is performing exactly as it should now. The new sensor is reporting correct back pressure readings and the DPF regeneration is happening normally. Definitely relieved it didnt need more extensive exhaust system repairs. Will make sure to keep monitoring the pressure readings at future services, but so far everything is working perfectly with normal power and no warning lights. Really appreciate you sharing your similar experience, helped confirm we were on the right track with the sensor replacement.