Diesel Filter Clog Kills Equinox Power and Performance

Had the exact same symptoms with my 2020 Chevy Colorado diesel last month. The power loss and dark smoke are classic signs of a clogged DPF (diesel particulate filter). The backpressure from the blocked filter was causing serious performance issues. Initially thought it just needed a DPF cleaning, but during the vehicle inspection, they found the filter was completely shot and needed replacement. It was pretty serious, running it too long in this condition can damage other engine components and tank your fuel efficiency. The fix involved: Complete DPF replacement, Sensor recalibration, System diagnostics to check for related issues, Regeneration cycle to ensure proper function Don't wait on this repair. A clogged or failed DPF will only get worse and could lead to more expensive engine damage. Make sure to find a shop that specializes in diesel engines, they'll have the right diagnostic tools and experience with these systems.

Wow, this sounds exactly like what I went through with my Equinox last winter. The engine light came on and I was getting that same power loss and smoke issue. My DPF was completely clogged too and needed a full replacement. How much did you end up paying for the whole repair job? Mine wasn't cheap, but I'm curious if prices vary much. Also, have you had any sensor fault codes or other problems pop up since the fix? I've been running fine, but I'm being extra careful with my driving habits now to avoid another DPF issue. By the way, if you're still having occasional power issues, might be worth checking the fuel filter too, they can get gunked up pretty quick in these models.

Thanks for asking about the repair costs. Got the work done last week and I'm happy to report the Equinox is running like new again. The diesel particulate filter replacement set me back 1550 €, which included all the labor and recalibration work. Steep price tag, but worth every penny considering how much better the vehicle performs now. Haven't seen any warning lights or fault codes since the fix. The power is fully restored and that annoying black smoke is completely gone. Fuel efficiency has improved significantly too, guess that's what happens when your exhaust system isn't fighting against a clogged filter! Good tip about the fuel filter, had mine checked during the vehicle inspection while they were working on the DPF. Everything looked clean, but you're right about keeping an eye on it. These diesels can be sensitive to fuel quality. The shop did a thorough job checking everything connected to the exhaust system while they had it apart. If anyone else runs into similar issues, definitely don't wait around hoping it'll fix itself, learned that lesson the hard way.

After getting those helpful replies, I finally bit the bullet and took my Equinox to a diesel specialist. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed a clogged DPF causing all the trouble. Got the whole system replaced and they did a full regeneration cycle while it was in the shop. The total bill came to around €1,800, which wasn't fun to pay, but the difference in performance is incredible. No more black smoke, and the engine's got its power back. Plus my fuel efficiency has improved quite a bit, guess that clogged filter was really making the engine work overtime. The shop also checked my fuel filter and sensors while they were at it. Everything else looked good, but they showed me how bad the DPF actually was. Made me wish I'd brought it in sooner instead of trying to push through the issues. Lesson learned about not ignoring those early warning signs of exhaust system problems. Definitely worth finding a proper diesel specialist rather than a general mechanic. These guys knew exactly what they were looking at and fixed it right the first time.