The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Volkswagen models that log P244A.
DTC/P244A·Volkswagen
P244A on Volkswagen: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Moderate SeveritySafe to drive (short-term)Volkswagen
P244A on a Volkswagen means the differential pressure sensor across the diesel particulate filter is reading below the expected range for the current engine load. The ECU expects some pressure differential because exhaust gas meets flow resistance from the filter substrate. A reading that is too low usually points to one of three things: the sensor itself is faulty or has a clogged pressure tube, the DPF has been physically removed (a delete), or there is an exhaust leak between the turbo and the DPF inlet.
Typical repair cost, all makes€40 - €4000
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Volkswagen Passat TDI
2008-2024On the Passat 2.0 TDI (EA189 and EA288), the pressure across the filter is measured by exhaust pressure sensor 1 (G450), so a faulty sensor or a leaking or blocked sensor hose is the first check for P244A. A removed filter also sets this code: a used Passat TDI with P244A should be checked underneath for the DPF canister, and with manufacturer-level software for its regeneration history, before purchase.
What causes P244A on a Volkswagen?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P244A page, these are the patterns noted for Volkswagen models:
Volkswagen Passat TDIFaulty exhaust pressure sensor (G450) or leaking or blocked sensor hose
Volkswagen Passat TDIFilter removed (deleted) with the sensor still fitted
How to diagnose P244A on a Volkswagen with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P244A:
- With manufacturer-level software, read the DPF inlet pressure, outlet pressure or the calculated differential and compare them to the manufacturer specification at idle and under load (a generic OBD2 reader cannot show these on most cars). A near-zero reading across all load points points to a sensor or tube issue, not an exhaust flow issue
- Visually inspect the two pressure sensing tubes (a thin metal pipe and a rubber section on most diesels). Look for soot blockage, cracks, or a disconnected end. A blocked tube reads near zero regardless of actual pressure
- Confirm the DPF is physically present by inspecting the exhaust under the vehicle. A deleted DPF leaves a straight section of pipe where the canister used to be. This check takes a minute with a torch and is especially worth doing on a used car
- Test the differential pressure sensor with a multimeter. Reference voltage should be around 5 V, signal voltage should rise with engine load. A flat-line signal at low voltage confirms a failed sensor
- If the sensor and tubes are good and the DPF is present, look for an exhaust leak between the turbo outlet and the DPF inlet. A leak vents exhaust to atmosphere before it reaches the DPF, dropping the pressure differential
- With manufacturer-level software, check the DPF regeneration history. A car that has covered high mileage with a working filter normally has a long regeneration history; zero regenerations on a high-mileage car is a strong sign the filter has been deleted at the software level
How much does P244A cost to fix on a Volkswagen? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P244A in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect Volkswagen parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P244A
These codes are often seen alongside P244A or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P244A reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P244A guideSkanyx · Volkswagen
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