The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Volkswagen models that log P244B.
DTC/P244B·Volkswagen
P244B on Volkswagen: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
High SeveritySafe to drive (short-term)Volkswagen
P244B on a Volkswagen means the differential pressure across the diesel particulate filter is higher than the ECU expects, indicating the filter is heavily loaded with soot. The usual cause is a DPF that has failed to complete its passive regeneration cycle because the vehicle is driven mostly on short urban trips. Less commonly, the pressure sensor itself is reading high, the DPF substrate has melted or cracked internally, or there is a downstream exhaust restriction.
Typical repair cost, all makes€60 - €3600
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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 sensor or hose fault can make a clean filter read as loaded; check it before anything else. A genuinely loaded filter usually responds to a forced regeneration, which needs manufacturer-level software.
What causes P244B on a Volkswagen?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P244B page, these are the patterns noted for Volkswagen models:
Volkswagen Passat TDIFilter loaded from short-trip use or interrupted regenerations
Volkswagen Passat TDIExhaust pressure sensor (G450) or hose reading falsely high
How to diagnose P244B on a Volkswagen with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P244B:
- With manufacturer-level software, read the DPF soot mass, distance since the last regeneration, the count of completed regenerations and the current differential pressure (a generic OBD2 reader cannot show these on most cars). A high soot mass with no recent regeneration points to an overloaded filter; the threshold that counts is the one for that vehicle, not a universal figure
- Before any parts replacement, have a forced regeneration run with manufacturer-level software (a generic OBD2 reader cannot trigger one). A successful forced regen brings the calculated soot mass back down below the threshold for that vehicle and can resolve P244B without further repair, especially on a vehicle that has been driven on short trips
- If forced regeneration fails or the soot mass refuses to drop, the DPF is either physically damaged or so loaded that off-vehicle cleaning is needed. Off-vehicle cleaning usually takes 1 to 2 days at a specialist and costs far less than a new filter
- With manufacturer-level software, compare the differential pressure reading to the manufacturer specification at idle and under load. A reading that is high at idle but normal under load points to a faulty sensor rather than a clogged filter. The sensor is far cheaper to replace than the DPF
- Inspect the DPF substrate with a borescope through the inlet flange. A cracked or melted substrate is visible and cannot be cleaned, only replaced. Catastrophic regeneration events (often after a misfire or rich condition) destroy the substrate
- Confirm there is no downstream restriction by checking the exhaust system from DPF outlet to tailpipe. A collapsed muffler or crushed pipe section will mimic a clogged DPF
How much does P244B cost to fix on a Volkswagen? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P244B 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 P244B
These codes are often seen alongside P244B or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P244B reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P244B guideSkanyx · Volkswagen
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