Audi Q3 diesel problems: black smoke, power loss and faulty DPF regeneration

Hi, I have some experience with car problems, but I'm not a professional. I had a similar problem with my 2015 Audi A3 diesel. My DPF was severely overloaded, which sounds like what you're describing. I then went to the garage and they removed the DPF and cleaned it because normal regeneration was no longer possible. It cost me a total of 1800 euros. Are you sure that your DPF is not also heavily overloaded? You could also check whether your exhaust back pressure sensor is working. Do you know the mileage, the condition of the DPF system and the maintenance history of your car? With this information, I might be able to help you even better.

(Translated from German)

Hi, thanks for the quick reply! My car has 43008 km on it and the last service was at 40000 km. I will go to the garage tomorrow and have the DPF and exhaust back pressure sensor checked. Hopefully I won't have to spend as much as you did, but what you don't do for your cars, right? I'll update you again after the workshop visit.

(Translated from German)

Hey, no problem, always happy to help! With the mileage, it really sounds like the DPF could be the problem. It's good that you're having it checked. Hopefully it's nothing too serious and you don't have to spend that much. Yes, cars can be an expensive affair, but if you look after them well, it's definitely worth it. Let us know what the garage said and how it went. Keep your fingers crossed that it can be fixed quickly and cheaply. Have a good trip and stay safe!

(Translated from German)

Hey, thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experiences. That gives me a bit of reassurance. Yes, I'll keep you up to date. Hopefully it's just the DPF and it won't be expensive fun. Thank you for keeping your fingers crossed! Take care of yourself and have a safe journey! See you then.

(Translated from German)

Hi there! It sounds like a frustrating issue. I haven't experienced this myself, but have you checked for any clogged DPF or EGR valve issues? They can sometimes cause similar symptoms. What diagnostics have you run so far?

It's great that you're considering all possibilities. However, as XaviFox mentioned, he's planning to have the DPF and exhaust back pressure sensor checked at the garage. It's also a good idea to have the EGR valve inspected, as it can indeed cause similar symptoms if it's clogged or malfunctioning.