DPF problems

QI have a 2014 Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCI Euro 5 with a DPF problem. The vehicle came in with a low power fault on the dash so we plugged in the code reader and found fault codes P246CO P24A4 P2463. Checking the live data the DPF was 279% full, so we tried a regen but no luck.

We then removed the DPF which was full of fuel vapour and valve fully blocked. Then went to check the temperature sensors but someone had been there before, and so we had to change two as they had damaged the threads.

At this point we opted for new DPF. Put new vapour valve and two new temp sensors in, all refitted, cleared fault codes but came back after 10 seconds, so we now have been trying to reset the DPF – but the scanner won’t communicate with it, so van still thinks it’s got 279% full. Any ideas what to do?

We don’t want to damage the new DPF. Mark Deane

AThe codes retrieved, P246C diesel particulate filter (DPF) DPF restricted, limp-home mode activated, P24A4 Diesel particulate filter (DPF), bank 1 - soot accumulation and P2463 Diesel particulate filter (DPF) - DPF restricted, would all point to a blocked DPF and as you did actually find a physical problem with the DPF it was a justified move to then renew it.

You haven’t mentioned checking or replacing the DPF pressure sensor or the connecting pipes, and this is one of the biggest problems I encounter on these engines. The pressure sensor pipes tend to block and this will give the restricted flow reading.

If the pressure sensor and pipes have been checked, and as the scanner does not appear to be connecting to the system, the two possible reasons which are most likely is that either the wiring loom or circuit is at some point damaged, or the problem is with the engine control module.

The failure of the wiring or the ECM could have been the reason for the DPF failing to regenerate and so allowing it to become blocked, and this may now be what is preventing the ECM to register that the DPF has been replaced/renewed.

I would start by checking the terminals on the ECM to ensure these look clean, and I would also check the relay number 11 in the underbonnet fusebox which controls the DPF regeneration glow plug, along with fuse number 12 (20A) and fuse number 5 (3A).

If nothing can be found, check the continuity of the wiring between the

DPF components before moving on to sending the ECM for testing.