Black smoke and increased fuel consumption in Opel Agila 2001: Diesel particulate filter defect suspected

Hello, I had a similar problem with my Opel Corsa (built in 2004, diesel). My diesel particulate filter was also internally defective. On my last visit to the garage, this was indeed the main problem. Lo and behold, black smoke and increased fuel consumption, just like yours. As the ceramic inside was damaged, regeneration was not working properly, which also matches the symptoms you described. Yes, this is a serious problem and not so easy to fix, because repairing the DPF is not like replacing an air filter. In my case, the entire diesel particulate filter had to be replaced. This is quite a big job and takes some time. So I can advise you to drive quickly to a trustworthy workshop and have it checked there. A defective DPF can also lead to further damage to the car in the long term. Good luck with that!

(Translated from German)

Hi, thanks for the reply and the helpful information. I'm amazed, that sounds exactly like what I'm experiencing with my Agila at the moment. Difficult to imagine that it could all be due to a broken diesel particulate filter. Do you happen to remember what you paid for the repair back then? And has anything else happened to your car since then that could also indicate a problem with the DPF? Best regards!

(Translated from German)

Hi, I'm glad to hear that you found the information helpful. And yes, it's amazing how many problems a broken diesel particulate filter can cause. It just goes to show how important every detail in our car is! As for the costs: the repair cost me €1550 at the time. It's a bit expensive, of course, but to be honest, since then everything has run like a picture book. No black smoke, no high fuel consumption and no more constantly illuminated warning lights. So it was definitely an investment that paid off. To date, there have been no further incidents that could indicate a problem with the DPF. So it seems that the mechanic has done a really good job on the diesel particulate filter. Good luck with fixing the problem. Take care! Best regards!

(Translated from German)

Hi, oh boy, that is indeed a hefty sum. But when I think about it, it's definitely worth it if it means my car is running smoothly again. Thanks for the details and the reassurance that you had no further problems afterwards. It's reassuring to know that this investment turned out well for you. Now I have no more doubts. I will go to a garage immediately tomorrow to have it checked. Thanks again for the help and especially for sharing your personal experience. I hope I have the same luck in this situation. Bye and see you next time! Best regards!

(Translated from German)