BMW 3 Series DPF Warning: Smoke and Power Loss Alert

I had a similar issue with my 2020 BMW 520d last year. The exhaust back pressure sensor was showing the same symptoms, DPF warning, lack of power, and that distinctive smoky exhaust. My first thought was a blocked DPF, but it turned out the sensor itself was faulty, giving incorrect readings to the ECU. This caused the car to run in limp mode as a protection measure. The sensor was corroded and needed replacement. The job wasn't too complex, the sensor was replaced and the system was reset. The mechanic also cleaned the DPF sensor connections while at it. No worries about the DPF itself, which was functioning normally. Since the fix, everything's been running perfectly, no more warnings, full power restored, and clean exhaust. I'd suggest getting it checked soon though, as running too long with these symptoms isn't great for the engine. Hope this helps with your decision making. Let me know if you need any other specifics about the repair.

Thanks so much for sharing your experience! This is really helpful as it sounds exactly like what I'm experiencing. I'm quite relieved it might just be the sensor rather than the entire DPF unit. Would you mind telling me roughly how much you paid for the repair? Also, just curious, have you had any similar issues pop up since getting it fixed?

Hey there! Happy to give you an update. Yes, I got it all sorted, cost me 245 € for the exhaust back pressure sensor replacement. To be honest, it was a relief it wasn't anything more serious like a full DPF replacement! And the best news? Haven't had a single problem since the fix. Not one warning light, no smoke, and the engine's running like a dream. My 520d is back to its old self, smooth and powerful, just as it should be. The mechanic explained that these sensors can get corroded or just wear out over time, giving false readings. Once they replaced it and reset the system, everything went back to normal. Trust me, I know how worrying these symptoms can be, but if your issue is similar to what I had, it's a relatively straightforward fix. Keep us posted on how it goes with your car!

Just wanted to update everyone. Finally got my car checked out today, and you won't believe it, it was exactly what you described! Had a faulty sensor causing all the drama. The mechanic was really thorough and spotted the problem right away. They showed me the corroded sensor and explained how it was messing with the readings. Cost me a bit more than yours, around 300 with labor, but totally worth it to have my car running properly again. My BMW's running like new now, no more warning lights, smoke's gone, and the power's back to normal. Such a relief it wasn't the entire DPF system needing replacement. Thanks again for your help, saved me a lot of worry and probably some money too by pointing me in the right direction. Always good to hear from someone who's been through the same thing!