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P179CModerateEmissions

P179C: Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction - Ash Accumulation

2 vehicles · 2 makes · $300-$4,500 repair

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Most Reported On

2017-2025Volkswagen Golf RMK7.5 R (DSG), MK8 R (DSG)2019-2024Audi SQ27-speed S tronic

P179C is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction - Ash Accumulation.” The DPF has excessive ash buildup that cannot be removed by regeneration. Ash is a byproduct of oil consumption and accumulates over time. This code is most commonly reported on 2017-2025 Volkswagen Golf R (MK7.5 R (DSG), MK8 R (DSG)), and 2019-2024 Audi SQ2 (7-speed S tronic), with repair costs ranging from $300 to $4,500.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (2)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (4)

Makes

  • Audi1
  • Volkswagen1
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Common Causes

1Normal ash accumulation over high mileage
2Excessive oil consumption
3Wrong oil specification
4DPF approaching end of service life
5Failed regeneration cycles

Typical Repair Cost

$300 - $4,500

Based on 2 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P179C, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

  • Read & clear engine codes
  • View freeze frame data
  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
Check Price on Amazon
Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
Check Price on Amazon
Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Check Price on Amazon
Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
  • Bi-directional control & active tests
  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
Check Price on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.

Vehicles Affected (2)

Audi P179C page →
SQ2Moderate

S tronic (DQ381) 7-speed wet-clutch transmission: jerky low-speed shifts, hesitation and limp mode

2019-2024$300-$3,5000 reports
Volkswagen P179C page →
Golf RCritical

DQ381 7-Speed DSG Mechatronic Failure and Limp Mode

2017-2025$600-$4,5000 reports

Related Codes (8)

01447EVAP System (VAG)P0401Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow InsufficientP0402Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow ExcessiveP0403Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit MalfunctionP0404Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Range/PerformanceP0410Secondary Air Injection System MalfunctionP0411Secondary Air Injection System Incorrect Flow DetectedP0412Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit

FAQ

What does P179C mean?

P179C stands for "Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction - Ash Accumulation." The DPF has excessive ash buildup that cannot be removed by regeneration. Ash is a byproduct of oil consumption and accumulates over time.

What are the most common causes of P179C?

The most common causes of P179C are: Normal ash accumulation over high mileage, Excessive oil consumption, Wrong oil specification, DPF approaching end of service life, Failed regeneration cycles. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P179C?

Repair costs for P179C range from $300 to $4,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P179C?

Au7o has documented P179C across 2 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Audi, Volkswagen.

Sources (4)

  • articleVW/Audi 0GC DQ381 DSG Mechatronic Failures — Symptoms, Fault Codes & Fixes (eco-torque)
  • ForumDQ381 mechatronics issues — VW R Owners Club (VWROC)
  • ForumDQ381 P060700 Error Transmission — VWROC
  • ForumCommon problems with Audi Q2 (gearbox/limp mode) - ClickMechanic

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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