Seeking Advice on Black Smoke, Engine Warning and DPF Regeneration Failure in 2005 Kia Carnival

Hey there, I see where you're coming from and I think you're right on the money with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) guess. I've got a 2008 Kia Sedona, quite similar to your model. Last year, my girl was behaving in the same peculiar fashion - black smoke, lack of power, and that annoying check engine light kept coming on. Those were some red flags right there. Turned it over to my trusted mechanic and turns out, high mileage was eating away at my DPF. All the soot and ash from the diesel engine had choked it up pretty bad and it ain't self-cleaning efficiently anymore, just like you mentioned with your Carnival. Let me tell you, it's a fairly serious issue as far as I understand. If left unchecked, it can cause severe engine damage. But don't worry, it's not some end-of-the-world scenario. You do need a straight-up mechanic to fix this. I'm sure there are a bunch of good ones in your area. Wish I could give you more advice on the how-to, but honestly, it's best if a certified professional takes a look at your case. Let them diagnose and handle it. Hope this helps!

Hey there, Really appreciated the detailed response! Sounds like our Kias have been up to the same old smokey tricks, huh? I'm glad to hear that I wasn't miles off with my DPF theory then. It's kind of relieving and anxiety-inducing at the same time, if you get what I mean. Just curious, do you happen to recall how big a hole this repair blew in your wallet? I'm hoping it's not going to cost me an arm and a leg. Plus, does your Sedona still throw tantrums since the fix, or has it been smooth sailing? Once again, thank you for sharing your experience - this sort of real-life insights are what make car communities worth their weight in gold! Cheers!

Hey again, To put your mind even further at ease, my car hasn't been throwing any tantrums since getting the DPF sorted. It's been a smooth ride from there on out with no more black smoke or engine lights flashing outta nowhere. As for the hit to the wallet, yeah, it was kinda like a wakeup call. It cost me around 1550 Euro, but considering the issue linked to the high mileage and the damage it could've done to the engine in the long run, I think it was a fair shake. My mechanic was quite straight up about it and trust me, in these matters, it's better to get it fixed early rather than leaving it to get worse. At the end of the day, it's your peace of mind about the ride you're in that really matters, isn't it? So, hop on it and get your Kia checked out by a proven professional. They'll know what to do. Good luck! And always here if you need any more info. Cheers!

Hey! That's a load off my head, at least about the reliability post-repair. Your conviction in your Sedona's post-repair performance has given me the confidence to go headfirst into this fix-up process. The price does sound hefty, but putting it in the context of a cool-running, trouble-free car, it seems pretty justified. Plus, the alternative prospect of a messed-up engine does make it look way more appealing. Now it just comes down to finding a real decent mechanic who won't torch me with over-charges and does a commendable job. Thanks again for giving me all this great advice and insights. Will sure keep you all updated on how it goes. Cheers and happy driving, my!