100% Free

No Scanner Needed

Carly logo

MatthiasWolfie

Problems with engine performance and DPF regeneration in a 2016 BMW X5 - suspected defect in the exhaust gas temperature sensor

DPF regeneration failure

|

Loss of engine power

|

Strong exhaust smell

Hi everyone, I am really worried about my 2016 BMW X5 Diesel (mileage of 56000 km) - I have noticed that it is losing engine power and there are also problems with DPF regeneration. I also find the exhaust smell very strong. I now suspect that this could be due to a defect in the exhaust gas temperature sensor. Have any of you had similar experiences and can tell me how this was remedied in the workshop? The last time I visited the garage, the costs were quite high, so I'd better ask. Many thanks in advance!

(Translated from German)

9 comment(s)


Best Answer

IngridSpeedster

Hey, I understand your concern. I had a similar problem with my 2013 BMW X3. It started with power loss and then there were also problems with DPF regeneration. You're absolutely right, it could definitely be the exhaust gas temperature sensor. At my garage, they simply replaced the sensor because it was no longer working properly. That's actually a pretty simple and quick solution. So don't worry, it's nothing serious and should be fairly easy to fix without having to do any major work on your car. Good luck!

(Translated from German)

MatthiasWolfie (Author)

Hey, thanks for the quick reply! Good to hear that it doesn't look too serious. Do you happen to remember an approximate price you paid to replace the sensor? Does it solve the problem completely or have other things popped up since then? Thank you!

(Translated from German)

IngridSpeedster

Moin, after the repair in the workshop, the problem with the defective exhaust gas temperature sensor in my car was fortunately completely resolved and has not reappeared since. The repair cost €95.00 because the sensor plug was defective. Take it easy, you can fix it!

(Translated from German)

MatthiasWolfie (Author)

Hey, first of all I would like to thank you all for all the helpful information! In fact, I went to the mechanic and they confirmed the fault. It was the exhaust temperature sensor that was broken and needed to be replaced. Surprisingly, I even had to pay a little less, just under €90. So, all in all, it was worth having it checked and I'm glad that it could be repaired comparatively cheaply and quickly. Thanks again to everyone! You have helped me a lot to keep the costs down and overcome the lack of knowledge about it. Best regards to you all!

(Translated from German)

BMWlover

Hi BMW drivers, With my diesel BMW, which had the same problems, it was the thermostat on the engine. It could simply build up the necessary temperature for regeneration. That's how the mechanic explained it to me.

(Translated from German)

Emil1976

Hello, my BMW E60 M5 has a different sports manifold from super Sprint. The lambda probe plugs are free, so I have a completely different smell in the exhaust that is too extreme for me. Why could it be

(Translated from German)

CarlyMechanic

@Emil1976

Hello, my BMW E60 M5 has a different sports manifold from super Sprint. The lambda probe plugs are free, so I have a completely different smell in the exhaust that is too extreme for me. Why could it be

It sounds like the lambda (oxygen) sensors aren't connected. These sensors are crucial for managing the fuel-air mixture in your engine. If they're not connected, your engine could be running too rich, which would explain the strong exhaust smell. I'd recommend getting those sensors connected as soon as possible. Running too rich for too long can cause damage to your engine and catalytic converter. Please let us know how it goes.

Ben90

The error always occurs when I drive the car above 210 km/h, as it is actually locked.

(Translated from German)

CarlyMechanic

@Ben90

The error always occurs when I drive the car above 210 km/h, as it is actually locked.

Driving at such high speeds can put a lot of strain on your vehicle's engine and other components. The error could be due to a variety of issues, such as overheating, fuel delivery problems, or even transmission issues. It's hard to pinpoint the exact cause without more information. I would recommend having your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to ensure it's safe to drive at these speeds. Please keep us updated on the situation.

Let our mechanics help you!

Car Brands
carly-logo

© 2025 Carly Solutions GmbH & Co. KG. All rights reserved