Nitro Diesel: DPF Warning, Power Loss & Smoke Issues

As someone with some hands-on experience with diesel engines, I dealt with similar symptoms on my 2008 Caliber diesel. The warning lights, power loss, and exhaust smoke issues match what I experienced almost exactly. After monitoring the exhaust system behavior for a few days, I took it to a workshop specializing in diesel emission control systems. Their diagnostic revealed a faulty exhaust back pressure sensor, which was causing incorrect readings and affecting the engine management system. The repair cost came to 245€, including parts and labor. Since the fix, the engine performance returned to normal, with no more warning lights or smoke issues. The low pressure problems in the exhaust system were completely resolved. To better assist with your situation, could you provide: Current mileage, Service history, especially recent DPF maintenance, Type of driving (city/highway split), Duration of symptoms before warning light appeared This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if it might be something different in your diesel exhaust system.

Thanks for sharing your experience with DPF issues. My mileage is at 91258 KM and last service was 2 months ago. After reading your response, I checked the exhaust back pressure with a diagnostic tool. Readings show inconsistent values, suggesting the particulate filter might be struggling with regeneration cycles. The engine still loses power intermittently, especially during emission control system activation. The thick smoke from the exhaust system continues despite trying several short highway runs to force DPF regeneration. These symptoms seem very similar to what you described with your sensor issue. I will contact a diesel specialist and have them check the back pressure sensor specifically. The 245€ repair cost seems reasonable if it resolves these issues.

The symptoms you describe with your Nitro match my Caliber experience even more closely now that you have shared the diagnostic readings. The inconsistent pressure sensor values are a telltale sign of the same DPF issue I encountered. The failed regeneration attempts through highway driving make sense, when the pressure sensor malfunctions, the diesel engine control unit cannot properly manage DPF regeneration cycles. This creates a cycle where the particulate filter gets increasingly clogged, leading to more smoke and power loss. After my repair, I learned the exhaust back pressure sensor is a common failure point in these diesel engine systems. The emission control components work together closely, so one faulty sensor can cascade into multiple symptoms. The 245€ fix proved cost-effective compared to complete DPF replacement. Just ensure the workshop performs a forced DPF regeneration after replacing the sensor to clear any buildup that occurred while the system was malfunctioning. Based on your relatively low mileage and recent service, once the pressure sensor is replaced, your exhaust system should return to normal operation without any lingering DPF issues.

Thanks for the detailed input about the sensor replacement. After speaking with my regular workshop, they confirmed they can check and replace the exhaust back pressure sensor. They quoted 275€ for the complete job including the forced DPF regeneration you mentioned. The diesel specialist also explained how the pressure sensor directly impacts the emission control system operation, which matches your experience. They suggested bringing the car in next week to prevent further strain on the particulate filter from incomplete regeneration cycles. My typical driving pattern is 70% highway, so once the exhaust system is repaired, it should maintain proper DPF function. Looking forward to getting rid of the warning lights and having normal power again. Will update the thread after the repair to confirm if replacing the pressure sensor resolves all the diesel engine symptoms.