This 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero with a diesel engine was brought to the workshop by tow truck. The DPF warning had appeared earlier; later the vehicle lost power and the engine would no longer start. Diagnostics identified DPF overload fault P1498.

Once the filter was removed, its channels were found to be heavily blocked and the central section was damaged and cracked. Restricted exhaust flow was preventing the engine from clearing gases, which was associated with the starting problem in this case. Washing and refitting the damaged filter was no longer a suitable option.

After diagnosis, the DPF was removed, the EGR and DPF control software was changed, and engine power was increased. The vehicle was started and checked after the work; the video shows it running and moving again.

DPF blockage can have various causes, including interrupted regenerations, unsuitable oil or other engine and sensor faults. It is important to identify the cause before replacing or cleaning the filter.