When the DPF differential pressure sensor stops signalling the PCM to regenerate, the DPF can come completely obstructed by contaminates and fail.
Here are some Signs to look out for;
- Engine Light
- Poor fuel economy
- Poor engine performance
- High engine temperatures
- High transmission temperatures
- Rough or uneven idling
When the DPF fails, exhaust gases can not be fully purged as backpressure pushes exhaust back into the combustion chamber causing DPM or soot to mix in with the engine oil.
If the engine check light is illuminated the vehicle will not perform a regeneration cycle.
In extreme cases, the faulty sensor will trigger the ECU to default to a limp home mode with reduced performance.
A DPF pressure sensor is vital to the longevity of the DPF, and if the DPF becomes completely obstructed, the regeneration process will not fix it. It will need to be removed and professionally cleaned or replaced.