VW Touran DPF Clog Causes Power Loss and Heavy Smoke

I faced a very similar issue with my 2008 VW Golf TDI. With some experience working on diesel engines, I recognized those classic DPF failure symptoms immediately. The reduced power and heavy smoke definitely pointed to a clogged particulate filter affecting the exhaust system. My workshop first ran a diagnostic test which confirmed high backpressure readings. They attempted a forced regeneration cycle, but it failed to resolve the issue, indicating the filter was beyond recovery. The vehicle inspection revealed the DPF was completely blocked with soot and had internal damage. Like your case, mine showed poor fuel efficiency and reduced performance. The complete replacement, including parts and labor, cost me 1550€. To better assist with your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your Touran, Driving patterns (mostly city or highway), When was the last regeneration cycle performed, Any previous DPF-related repairs These details would help determine if your symptoms match what I experienced and whether you might be facing a similar repair need. For preventive care, after the repair, I adjusted my driving habits to ensure proper regeneration cycles, which has helped maintain filter performance.

Thanks for sharing your repair experience. My Touran had its last service 3 months ago and is currently at 98962km. The symptoms match exactly what you described. During the past few weeks, I noticed the engine light came on briefly during city drives, which I now realize might have been failed regeneration attempts. A sensor fault check would definitely help confirm if its the DPF causing these issues. Given the mileage and symptoms, Im leaning toward getting the DPF cleaning done first before considering a full replacement. What driving pattern changes did you make after your repair? Specifically interested in learning how to maintain proper DPF function and improve fuel efficiency going forward.

Thanks for those details. The mileage on your Touran is actually lower than when my Golf started having DPF issues (mine was at 145000km), which suggests your driving pattern might be the bigger factor here. After my repair, I made these specific changes that significantly improved my DPF performance: Taking at least one 20-minute highway drive weekly at sustained higher RPMs, Avoiding too many short trips where the engine doesnt reach full operating temperature, Not interrupting active regeneration cycles when the engine light indicates one is in progress, Regular engine oil changes since contaminated oil can affect exhaust system performance Since implementing these changes, my fuel efficiency improved noticeably and I havent had any engine light warnings related to the DPF. Your plan to try cleaning first is sensible. However, if the vehicle inspection shows internal damage like mine had, cleaning might not be enough. The workshop should be able to measure backpressure levels to determine if cleaning could work or if replacement is necessary. Would you mind sharing what type of city driving you typically do? This could help determine if your current driving pattern is preventing proper regeneration cycles.

Thanks for the detailed driving pattern suggestions. I mainly do short trips, usually under 15 minutes, for school runs and grocery shopping. Rarely get on highways these days, which probably explains the regeneration issues. The engine light patterns now make more sense. After monitoring more closely this week, I noticed it typically appears after these short trips, especially in slow traffic. Will definitely try some longer drives to help with diesel filter maintenance. Found a workshop nearby that can do both cleaning and sensor fault diagnostics, booked in for next week. Based on the backpressure readings, Ill decide between cleaning or full replacement. If cleaning works, Ill adjust my routine to include weekly highway drives. The fuel efficiency hit from city-only driving is becoming noticeable anyway, so longer trips make sense both for the DPF and fuel consumption. By the way, the quoted 1550€ repair cost helps set realistic expectations if replacement becomes necessary. Really helpful to have this reference before the workshop visit.