Issues with '09 Diesel Sorento: Persistent Check Engine Light, Decreased Power and Fuel Economy, Possible DPF Malfunction

Hey! I had a similar experience with my '06 diesel Sportage. The persistent check engine light, the black smoke puffs, and the dying power felt all too real. It started in the vicinity of 140k kms as well. Like you, my Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) refused to enter regeneration mode. As annoying as it may sound, it's actually a common problem with diesel vehicles. Took it to my regular garage, and yes, you are right on the money! The problem was with the DPF being internally defective. This is a bit of a serious issue, as the DPF plays a crucial role in filtering harmful diesel particulates. The blokes at the garage had to replace the entire DPF. And let me tell you, it's not a quick job. They had to reprogram the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and reset the DPF soot levels so the vehicle could function properly. So, based on my experience, you might have a defective DPF. And from what you mentioned, it sounds like it's lost its capacity to regenerate. This can directly affect your engine's performance and reduce your fuel economy. Best take her to a trusty mechanic. Just make sure to avoid the unpleasant ones! Cheers!

Hey there, Wow, you've nailed exactly what's happening to my trusty '09 Sorento. I reckon it must be the darn DPF playing up as you said. Thank heavens for this group; I bet otherwise I'd be clueless. But yikes, this sounds like a more serious operation than I worryingly suspected. Just before I round up the usual suspects, do you happen to remember what kind of cost you were looking at for this job? And since you've had it fixed, has there been any unusual developments or has your Sportage been smoother? Much appreciated! Cheers!

Hey again, Glad I could shed some light on the situation for you. Ridding your Sorento of its grim situation was a bit of an effort. If we're talking repair costs, I had to shell out roughly 1550.00 € to get my Sportage back in chipper condition. Yeah, it's a bit steep but beats dealing with those other problems time and time again, y'know? And you hit the bull's eye with your query: since getting the DPF fixed, my ride's been running smoother than a greased lightning. So far, touch wood, no unusual occurrences, no pesky surprises. The bloke at the garage really did a thorough job clearing the DPF defect internally. So I'd say, don't waste another moment. Even though it might cost a shiny penny, get that Sorento of yours to a solid mechanic pronto. Cheers!

Hey you've been an absolute champ! Thanks a ton for your insightful advice and sharing your experiences. It's given me a ballpark figure as to what I should be expecting. Yes, 1550.00 € is indeed a bit on the heavier side, but if it saves me the headache of constant issues it's worth the investment. Glad to hear that your Sportage is running top-notch post repair. You bet I'm getting my Sorento to the garage ASAP. Will make sure it's a solid one this time! I hope mine will be smooth sailing too once this DPF trouble is cleared off. Really appreciate your help. Cheers to no more black smoke and check engine nonsense! Cheers!