Why did my diesel Peugeot lose power?

Why would a 2009 diesel Peugeot with 66,000km on the clock lose power and stop on the motorway at 100km/h? I turned it off and restarted it and it was perfect for about 40km then it happened again.

Michelle Roche (Limerick)

Mar 2013 Filed under: DPF issues

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Expert answer

Hi Michelle,

Although you've not told us the model or engine size in your car, that sounds like a classic case of the engine management switching into 'limp home' mode, which is most often because of a clogged up diesel particulate filter (DPF). If the car will run properly, then take it for a long run at motorway speeds in a lower gear than usual to see if that will clear it out, but it may be that it needs further treatment or even replacement.

If in any doubt, bring the car to a good mechanic so they can plug the car into a diagnostic machine and obtain any error codes that will confirm what the issue is.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D