Common DPF Fault Codes and What They Mean
If your diesel vehicle has a DPF-related issue, your diagnostic scanner may return one of these fault codes. Below is a list of common diesel particulate filter fault codes, what they mean, and what action may be needed.
🔧 P2002 – Diesel Particulate Filter Efficiency Below Threshold
What it means: The DPF is not reducing emissions effectively.
Cause: Usually due to a clogged or saturated filter, failed regeneration, or excessive ash buildup.
Action: May require off-car industrial DPF cleaning or replacement if damaged.
🔧 P242F – DPF Restriction – Ash Accumulation
What it means: The ECU has detected excess ash in the filter.
Cause: Ash from engine oil cannot be burned off and builds up over time.
Action: Needs off-car DPF cleaning — regeneration cannot remove ash.
🔧 P2452 – DPF Pressure Sensor A Circuit
What it means: Fault in the pressure sensor circuit monitoring DPF backpressure.
Cause: Failed or blocked pressure sensor, broken wiring, or connectors.
Action: Check sensor wiring, replace sensor if needed.
🔧 P2453 – DPF Pressure Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
What it means: The DPF pressure sensor is reporting values out of expected range.
Cause: Sensor fault, wiring issue, or real blockage in DPF.
Action: Test or replace sensor; clean DPF if blocked.
🔧 P2454 – DPF Pressure Sensor A Circuit Low
What it means: The sensor is reading low pressure or an open circuit.
Cause: Damaged sensor, disconnected pipe, or faulty wiring.
Action: Replace or repair sensor and connections.
🔧 P2455 – DPF Pressure Sensor A Circuit High
What it means: Pressure sensor is reading too high, or there’s a short circuit.
Cause: Sensor issue or actual severe blockage in the DPF.
Action: Inspect wiring and test the sensor. Clean or replace DPF if blocked.
🔧 P2463 – DPF Soot Accumulation Too High
What it means: Excessive soot is trapped in the filter.
Cause: Repeated failed regenerations, short journeys, or poor fuel quality.
Action: Perform regeneration if possible, or off-car cleaning if soot is excessive.
🔧 P246C – DPF Restriction – Forced Limited Power
What it means: The ECU has entered limp mode to protect the engine.
Cause: Severe restriction in the DPF due to soot or ash.
Action: DPF needs to be cleaned immediately to restore normal performance.
🔧 P1471 / P1472 / P1475 – DPF Regeneration Errors (Common on Ford/VAG)
What they mean: The system attempted regeneration but it failed.
Cause: Low temperatures, failed sensors, or blocked DPF.
Action: Check sensor functions, clean DPF if regen fails repeatedly.
⚠️ Note:
Some codes may appear slightly different depending on your vehicle’s manufacturer (Ford, VW, Mercedes, BMW, Peugeot, etc.), but the general issue will be the same.
💡 What to Do If You See a DPF Fault Code
Don’t ignore it — continued driving may cause engine damage or limp mode.
Try a forced regeneration if supported.
If that fails or ash is detected, you’ll need a professional off-car DPF clean.
Top DPF Cleaning can remove over 98% of soot and ash — restoring your filter and clearing most DPF-related fault codes the same day.
📞 Need Help With a DPF Fault?
We’re here to help — whether you need mobile service or want to send your DPF by post.
Call or WhatsApp: 07983 497 705
Landline: 01249 554 522
Email: info@top-dpfcleaning.co.uk
