Problems with the DPF

[rauman]

I own a 2012 Cooper diesel automatic car that has been experiencing issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The car has been stuttering while in neutral or first gear, indicating possible fuel-related problems. It broke down during Christmas, and the diagnostics pointed to a DPF issue. Interestingly, no warning lights have ever appeared. In an attempt to fix the problem, I had the DPF sensor replaced, along with a cleaner and static regeneration. However, two weeks later, the issue resurfaced. Surprisingly, when the car was put on diagnostic, no faults were recorded. The air mass is currently higher than what the car's specifications indicate, despite changing the MAP sensor. Recently, the car broke down again, entering limp mode and refusing to start. The AA (Automobile Association) put the car on a diagnostic machine, which once again identified a DPF fault, along with a rear brake light issue. The AA fixed the brake light, as electrical problems can sometimes negatively affect the car's performance. After the repair, the car started perfectly. However, I am now hesitant to drive it, fearing another breakdown. Is there someone available to provide assistance? Thank you

[Lemmand]

Although that may be a misleading clue, have you verified the functionality of the injectors? I inquire, since I have lately had a similar issue with my VW Golf. The engine would have intermittent jerking and harsh idling, often resulting in stalling. There are no illuminated indication lights on the dashboard. After having the performance assessed, it was determined that 2 out of the 4 injectors exhibited anomalous behaviour, indicating the presence of a potential issue. I had to face the difficult situation and replace all four. The issue was subsequently resolved.

[rauman]

Thank you. I considered the possibility of the injectors being the issue. However, wouldn't a diagnostic test reveal any signs of failure or malfunction in the injectors?

[Lemmand]

The outcome is contingent upon the specific inspections conducted and the equipment used. During the diagnostics check, it was found that the flow rate was suboptimal. However, it turns out that two of the injectors were malfunctioning. It is standard procedure for garages equipped with a specialised diesel flow metre to do this task before proceeding with any other actions. If the injectors are found to be defective, my garage advised me to replace all of them, since replacing just two would need returning in a month to replace the other ones. Fortunately, in your situation, that is not the case. The cost of each new injector, excluding work, is estimated to be around £220. Furthermore, I strongly advise against purchasing any 'refurbished' items, as they are often deceptive and not worth the investment. This information comes directly from a Volkswagen technician who deals with such products on a daily basis. An unmistakable indication, in the event that you must make a purchase, is when the merchant requests that you surrender your previous item. When purchasing new items, you should never be required to provide the old ones. Regardless, this discussion is just theoretical; presumably, the solution is simple.

[baelicious]

The diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the 2013 Countryman SD with 80,000 miles of local usage is likely in need of replacement or removal. Additionally, there was a tiny catalytic converter located after the DPF filter, as well as one before it, and both were obstructed. The application of an additive to clean the filters only exacerbated the problem.

[rauman]

The vehicle has accumulated a mileage of 56,000 kilometres. Do you suspect that the regeneration process is not functioning correctly? Thank you

[baelicious]

i had one a while ago 60k on clock dpf clogged badly and timing chain snapped , done timing chain and damage it caused got it all back running again to find glow plugs not working and replaced them with 4 new ones and reset the codes so system worked again, few miles later its back again n with running issues on start up , long and short of it was glow plug module had a fault where it kept the voltage to to glow plug at battery voltage until melted or damaged the glow plugs , bmw parts guy said common fault where the module fails, it also fails in ways that just dont allow glow plugs to work,, when this happens it prevents the system from doing a regen and filter blocks solid and new dpf with cat is part of fix , also need to fix any fault codes that prevent the system from regen , the last 4 i have done had dpf and egr delete done as bmw want over £1600 for the dpf and cat part,, and on later engines they have also fitted a cat further back the system so a full system would be in realms of £3500 to repair according to main dealers , also trouble is when they dont regen right the carbon collects in engine oil and wears away timing chains faster , i have cars i have done 10 years ago still running same chains and running fine with better titan chains and dpf delete, downside its a mot failure to delete it, but test is mainly a visual check its there, key is to remove the filter internals and leave the rest intact, was someone on here recently saying his car has done 230.000 miles on same chains and changes his oil every 4k , down side of that would be over life span of a consumable chains would be spend 10k to save £1500 every 10 years or so, also cars used on long trips do better than short trips as system needs heat to work anywhere near correctly,

[HolyRoach]

If you are able to deliver the automobile to Mike, he is our expert in engines and repairs them professionally. His charges are really affordable, and he consistently fulfils his promises.

[rauman]

Thank you for your assistance. However, I am now located in Maidstone, Kent, which is too far away from Plymouth. I am grateful for your help, but I am in need of someone who has knowledge regarding issues specific to Mini vehicles and offers fair pricing. Regrettably, the current pricing structure is exorbitantly pricey for even entering the premises.

[HolyRoach]

There is an affordable delivery/collection option available, although it may take a few days. In my opinion, this might offset the high prices for deliveries to the home counties. It could be worth considering.

[rauman]

How do I initiate contact with him in order to engage in a conversation? Due to my concerns about the possibility of my vehicle breaking down again, I have decided to rely on using a bus for my daily commute. The recurring issue that has been identified is a defect in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), with the exception of last Saturday when the vehicle went into a reduced power mode and indicated a fault related to a brake light. It will display this information on my dashboard, but it won't provide any other details that might potentially lead to significant harm.

[HolyRoach]

Send a private message to @baelicious. However, baelicious could do it before you do.