VW Arteon DPF Trouble: Black Smoke & Poor Performance

Had similar symptoms with my 2015 VW Passat diesel. The engine light appeared during highway driving, followed by reduced power and dark smoke. The exhaust system diagnosis confirmed a clogged diesel filter that was beyond cleaning. A filter replacement was necessary as the DPF had accumulated excessive soot, restricting proper exhaust flow. The workshop found that irregular short trips and city driving contributed to incomplete regeneration cycles. Post repair, fuel efficiency improved noticeably and the engine regained its responsiveness. This is typically a serious issue requiring prompt attention. Continuing to drive with a failing DPF risks further engine damage and increased fuel consumption. The repair involved removing the old filter, installing a new unit, and resetting the engine management system. Would suggest getting a second opinion from a workshop specializing in diesel systems. They should perform proper diagnostics before deciding between cleaning or replacement. In my case, the damage was too extensive for cleaning to be effective. Regular highway drives after repair helped maintain the new filter through natural regeneration cycles. The engine light has not returned since the filter replacement.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Passat DPF issue. Did you remember roughly how much the filter replacement cost you? Also curious if youve had any sensor fault codes or regeneration problems since the repair? My Arteon symptoms sound quite similar to what you described, especially the reduced power and smoke situation.

Since having the defective diesel particulate filter replaced on my Passat, the vehicle performance has been completely restored. The total repair cost was 1550€, which included the new filter, labor, and system reset. It was worth every cent considering the improvement in fuel efficiency and engine response. No sensor fault codes or engine light warnings have appeared in the months following the repair. The regeneration cycles are now working as intended, especially with regular highway driving. A thorough vehicle inspection after the work confirmed everything was properly installed and calibrated. If your Arteon is showing the same symptoms, investing in proper filter replacement would likely resolve the issues. The smoke and power loss during acceleration are classic signs of a failing DPF, just as I experienced. Getting it fixed promptly helps prevent additional engine complications and maintains optimal performance.

Your experience was really eye-opening. After your reply, I took my Arteon to a different workshop specializing in diesel systems. Their diagnostic confirmed what you suggested, a severely clogged DPF causing the exhaust system problems. The repair cost was similar, around 1600€ for a complete filter replacement and system reset. The difference in performance is remarkable. The sluggish acceleration and smoke issues disappeared completely. Fuel efficiency improved significantly, and the engine light hasnt come back. The new mechanics also explained how to maintain proper regeneration cycles, recommending regular highway drives. Looking back, I wish I had addressed the DPF issue sooner. The first mechanic kept suggesting minor fixes that never solved the root problem. Thanks to your advice, I found a better solution and saved my engine from potential long-term damage.