P2463 Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction – Soot Accumulation
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Diesel Particulate Filter Restriction – Soot Accumulation
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to all 1996-newer diesel vehicles (Ford, Mercedes Benz, Vauxhall, Mazda, Jeep, etc.). Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.
In my encounters with a stored code P2463, the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a restriction (due to soot accumulation) in the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system. This code should be exhibited only in diesel powered vehicles.
Because DPF systems are designed to remove ninety-percent of carbon particles (soot) from diesel engine exhaust, soot accumulation can sometimes lead to DPF restriction. DPF systems are critical in facilitating automaker’s compliance with strict federal guidelines for clean burning diesel engines. Modern diesel powered vehicles smoke far less than the diesel powered vehicles of yesteryear; primarily due to DPF systems.
Most PDF systems function in a similar manner. The DPF housing resembles a large steel muffler which contains a filtration element. Theoretically, large soot particles are trapped by the filtration element and exhaust gases are allowed to flow through and exit the tailpipe. In the most common design, the DPF contains wall fibers that attract larger soot particles as they flow into the housing. Less common designs rely on a loose web assembly that fills virtually the entire housing. Openings in the filtration device are sized so that larger soot particles are trapped within; exhaust gases flow through and exit the tailpipe.
When the filtration element has accumulated an excessive amount of soot particles, it becomes partially clogged and exhaust back pressure increases. DPF back pressure is monitored by the PCM using a pressure sensor. Once back pressure reaches a programmed limit, the PCM initiates a regeneration procedure of the filtration element.
A minimum temperature of 1,200-degrees Fahrenheit must be reached (inside the DPF) in order for the filtration element to be regenerated. The regeneration system uses a specialized injection system to accomplish this. The electronically controlled (by the PCM) injection procedure introduces a flammable chemical compound, such as diesel fuel or diesel exhaust fluid, into the DPF. Once the specialized fluid has been introduced, soot particles are incinerated and released into the atmosphere (via the tailpipe) as harmless ions of nitrogen and water. Once the PDF is regenerated, exhaust back pressure drops within acceptable limits.
Active DPF regeneration systems are initiated automatically by the PCM. The process usually occurs while the vehicle is being driven. Passive DPF regeneration systems require driver interaction (after the PCM has presented a cautionary warning) and normally take place after the vehicle is parked. Passive regeneration procedures may take hours to complete. Check your vehicle information source to see with which type of DPF system your vehicle is equipped.
If the PCM detects exhaust pressure levels that fail to reach a programmed limit, a P2463 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.
Severity & Symptoms
Because DPF restriction may lead to engine or fuel system damage, this code should be considered severe.
Symptoms of a P2463 code may include:
Causes
Possible causes for this engine code include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reputable vehicle information source (such as All Data DIY) are just a few of the tools that I would use to diagnose a stored P2463.
I begin my diagnostic process by inspecting all system related wiring harnesses and connectors. I would carefully inspect harnesses that are located near hot exhaust components and sharp exhaust shields. Other DPF and DPF regeneration codes should be repaired prior to attempting to diagnose and repair a code P2463.
I would proceed by connecting the scanner to the diagnostic port and retrieving all stored trouble codes and freeze frame data. This information can be useful later, so I like to write it down prior to clearing the codes and test driving the vehicle.
If the code is immediately reset, use the DVOM and follow manufacturer’s recommendations for testing the DPF pressure sensor. If the sensor does not comply with manufacturer’s resistance specifications, it must be replaced.
If the manufacturer’s recommended DPF regeneration procedures have not been followed, suspect an actual DPF restriction due to excessive soot accumulation. Initiate the regeneration procedure and see if it rectifies the excessive soot accumulation condition.
Additional diagnostic notes:
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p2463 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p2463 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p2463.
