P244A on Volkswagen: How to Diagnose & Fix
Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too Low (Bank 1)
4 Volkswagen models · 4 documented issues · 1 critical · $100-$3,500 repair
P244A on Volkswagen by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
T-Roc TDI diesels (1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI, EA288) used predominantly for short, low-speed trips suffer incomplete DPF (diesel particulate filter) regeneration, leading to soot build-up, the DPF warning light, reduced power/limp mode and increased fuel use. A sticking or carbon-fouled EGR valve worsens soot loading and accelerates filter clogging. AdBlue/SCR sensor or software faults are also reported (warning light failing to clear after a refill). Some 2.0 TDI 4Motion owners report unusually frequent regeneration cycles (every ~120–130 miles).
Common Symptoms
- DPF warning light
- Reduced power / limp mode
- Frequent regeneration cycles
- Increased fuel consumption
- Exhaust smoke
- AdBlue warning not clearing
How to Fix
Drive at sustained motorway speed for 15–20 minutes to allow a full active regeneration. Persistent blockage needs a forced regen, professional DPF clean, or filter replacement; a fouled EGR valve should be cleaned or replaced. AdBlue/SCR faults need sensor replacement or a software update. Avoid DPF delete (illegal for road use in EU/UK and an MOT/TÜV failure).
Sources for this issue (2)
Diesel Touaregs used mostly for short, low-speed trips suffer diesel particulate filter (DPF) soot accumulation because the engine rarely reaches the temperature needed for passive regeneration. Compounding this, EGR faults (sticking/clogged EGR valve, failed differential pressure or exhaust temperature sensors) prevent the regeneration cycle from completing. The result is rising backpressure, increased fuel consumption, loss of power, DPF warning light, and eventually limp mode. Owners report that once one satellite sensor in the regen chain fails, regeneration stops entirely and the DPF clogs.
Common Symptoms
- DPF / glow plug warning light
- Loss of power and limp mode
- Increased fuel consumption
- Smell of burning during/after regen
- Repeated incomplete regeneration cycles
How to Fix
Diagnose the regen chain: replace faulty DPF differential-pressure or exhaust-temperature sensors and clean/replace a sticking EGR valve, then run a forced/service regeneration with a diagnostic tool. Severely clogged filters may need professional DPF cleaning or replacement. Owner habit fix: periodic longer high-speed drives to allow passive regen.
Sources for this issue (3)
Touran TDI diesels fitted with a DPF are prone to the filter clogging with soot and ash, particularly on cars used for short, low-speed journeys that never reach the temperature needed for regeneration. Ash typically accumulates to problem levels around 80,000-100,000 miles. A blocked DPF triggers a warning light and limp mode; the issue is often compounded by failed glow plugs or software faults that prevent successful active regeneration (fault codes such as 07388 / P2463).
Common Symptoms
- DPF / exhaust emissions warning light
- Glow plug warning light flashing
- Reduced power and limp mode
- Frequent failed regenerations
- Increased fuel consumption and smell of unburnt diesel
How to Fix
Attempt a forced/active regeneration via a long motorway drive or dealer-initiated regen. If the filter is heavily clogged, chemical (off-car) cleaning costs roughly £300-£500; a replacement DPF is around £1,000+. Address contributing faults first (glow plugs, EGR, software update for code 07388/P2463). Regular longer drives prevent recurrence.
Sources for this issue (2)
The 2009-2014 Jetta TDI ran the EA189 2.0 TDI (CBEA/CJAA) at the centre of the diesel emissions scandal. The court-approved Approved Emissions Modification - an ECU recalibration, plus hardware on some generations - brings the car into compliance largely by leaning on the exhaust gas recirculation system far harder and altering injection. Owners and independent shops have documented the aftereffect: heavier EGR duty cycles accelerate carbon fouling of the EGR valve and cooler, and the changed combustion produces more soot, so the diesel particulate filter loads and regenerates more often, shortening its service life. Symptoms are rough idle, power loss and EGR flow codes (P0401 and relatives), or a DPF that will no longer complete a regeneration. The pattern is strong enough that Volkswagen Group has been refunding or goodwilling EGR failures in some markets, while individual dealers have told owners the failures are unrelated to the fix.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle and hesitation after the emissions recall was performed
- Loss of power or limp mode
- Check engine light with EGR flow codes
- Frequent DPF regeneration cycles and dropping fuel economy
- Smell of hot exhaust and elevated idle during regeneration
- DPF warning light or a regeneration that will not complete
How to Fix
First establish whether the car has had the Approved Emissions Modification applied and whether it is still inside the extended emissions warranty that accompanied the settlement - the settlement provided an extended warranty on emissions-related components for modified vehicles, and EGR and DPF claims should be pressed against it before paying. Mechanically, the repair is EGR valve and cooler replacement plus intake cleaning; a saturated DPF needs a forced regeneration, a professional clean, or replacement. Owners doing mostly short trips should ensure the car reaches full operating temperature regularly so passive and active regeneration can complete.
Sources for this issue (3)
P244A code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P244A mean on a Volkswagen?
P244A stands for "Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too Low (Bank 1)." P244A is a diesel emissions code meaning the differential pressure across the diesel particulate filter (DPF) on bank 1 is too low. A pressure sensor measures the difference between the DPF inlet and outlet to gauge how loaded with soot the filter is; an abnormally low reading suggests the filter isn't restricting flow as expected. This can indicate a cracked, missing, or hollowed-out DPF substrate, or a sensor/hose problem giving a false low reading. It points to the DPF or its differential pressure sensing system rather than the engine itself. On Volkswagen it is documented across 4 models: T-Roc, Touareg, Touran, Jetta.
What are the most common causes of P244A?
The most common causes of P244A are: Cracked, damaged, or failed (hollow) DPF substrate, Faulty DPF differential pressure sensor, Disconnected, cracked, or leaking pressure sensor hoses, Clogged or blocked pressure sensor reference lines, Exhaust leak upstream or around the DPF, Aftermarket or tampered/removed DPF, Wiring or connector fault at the pressure sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P244A on a Volkswagen?
Published repair estimates on Volkswagen range from $100 to $3,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P244A on a different make?
View P244A across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.