Black Smoke & DPF Issues: Astra Diesel Owner Seeks Help

Hi there! I've dealt with something very similar on my '04 Vauxhall Vectra diesel (I'd say I have some experience with diesel cars). Had almost identical symptoms, black smoke, jerking, and DPF issues. My trusted mechanic diagnosed it as an internally defective DPF that was beyond cleaning. After several failed regeneration attempts, I bit the bullet and had the DPF replaced, cost me around 1550€. It wasn't cheap, but the car's been running perfectly since then. No more smoke or performance issues. Which engine variant does your Astra have? That would help me share more specific details about the fix, as the procedure can vary a bit between models.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Yeah, my current mileage is 98181 KM and had the last service done just three months ago. I was hoping to avoid a full DPF replacement, but from what you're describing, I might be heading down the same road. Did you try any DPF cleaning solutions before going for the full replacement? I've heard mixed things about those cleaning additives and wonder if they're worth trying first.

Hey again! Yeah, I actually did try a few DPF cleaning additives with my Vectra before going for the replacement. I used a couple of those fuel-system cleaners that you pour into the tank, spent about 50€ on different brands, but honestly, they only helped temporarily. The symptoms would improve for maybe a week or two, then come right back. I also tried forcing a regeneration by driving at high speeds on the motorway for about 30 minutes (like the manual suggests), but that didn't help much either. My mechanic later told me that once the DPF gets to a certain point of deterioration, these solutions are just Band-Aids. Given that your mileage is pretty similar to what mine was when I had the issue (I was at about 95000 KM), and you're seeing the same symptoms, I'd say you're probably facing a similar situation. I know it's not what you want to hear, I didn't either when I got the news! But if it helps, the new DPF has been working perfectly for the last 18 months, and I haven't had a single issue since. Just make sure you get a genuine part if you do end up replacing it. I learned that lesson the hard way with my previous car!

Thanks a lot for the detailed feedback! That's really helpful, especially knowing that the cleaning additives might just be a temporary fix. The high motorway driving is something I've actually tried too, but like in your case, it didn't seem to make much difference. I've just checked and my local Vauxhall dealer quoted me around 1600€ for a genuine DPF replacement, which sounds about right based on what you paid. Guess I'll have to start saving up! At least it's good to hear that your car's been running smoothly since the replacement. I was worried about whether it would be a long-term solution. Think I'll give it one last try with a proper DPF cleaner, but I won't get my hopes up too much. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it's definitely helped me understand what I'm dealing with. Thanks again!