In recent years, standards for emission control and environmentally friendly driving in diesel engine vehicles have been steadily rising. As Peugeot owners, understanding the warnings related to your vehicle's emission system and responding correctly will protect both your wallet and your vehicle. In this article, we thoroughly examine the common emission system warnings in Peugeot models and professional solution methods.
Emission System Warnings in Peugeot Vehicles: Why Are They Important?
Emission control systems have become an indispensable part of modern diesel vehicles. These systems not only protect the environment but also directly affect engine performance. The three basic systems found in Peugeot's 3008, 5008, 308, 508, 2008, Partner, and Expert models are:
AdBlue System
Reduces harmful NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions in exhaust gases
DPF System
Filters soot particles in exhaust gas, preventing them from mixing with air
EGR System
Reduces NOx formation by lowering the temperature of the combustion process
A problem in any of these systems not only reduces the performance of the vehicle but can also lead to more serious engine damage. Therefore, understanding warning messages and responding quickly is critically important.
How Does the AdBlue System Work in Peugeots?
AdBlue is a urea-based liquid and serves as part of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. We can simply explain the system as follows:
Storage
AdBlue liquid is stored in a separate tank
Injection
While the engine is running, AdBlue is injected into the exhaust system in amounts determined by the control unit
Conversion
AdBlue that encounters high-temperature exhaust gases converts to ammonia and CO2
Filtering
The ammonia formed reacts with NOx emissions in the SCR catalyst, converting them to harmless nitrogen and water vapor
As a Peugeot owner, you should never ignore the "Check AdBlue system" warning you see on the vehicle information display. This warning is usually a harbinger of the following situations:
- The fluid level in the AdBlue tank is low
- The AdBlue injector is clogged
- The AdBlue quality is poor or has exceeded its shelf life
- The AdBlue heating system is not working properly
- There is a problem with the SCR catalyst
- There is a malfunction in the NOx sensors
AdBlue Warning Solution Methods in Peugeot Vehicles
When you receive a warning related to the AdBlue system, the steps you should follow are:
1. Check the AdBlue Level
This is the most basic and first check you should do. In most Peugeot vehicles, the AdBlue tank is typically located in the trunk area or next to the fuel cap. If the level is low, add appropriate quality AdBlue fluid.
Expert Advice: When adding AdBlue, the vehicle should be off and the ignition key in the off position. Also, make sure the AdBlue fluid complies with the ISO 22241 standard. Inappropriate fluids can damage your catalytic converter.
2. Perform Quality Control
Sometimes the warning may continue despite a full tank. In this case, the quality of the AdBlue fluid should be questioned. Remember that AdBlue fluid has a shelf life and its quality can deteriorate over time. The ideal storage temperature is between 10-25°C and it should be protected from direct sunlight.
3. Use a Diagnostic Device
If simple checks didn't solve the problem, you can read the error codes in the system using a diagnostic device. Common AdBlue-related fault codes in Peugeot vehicles are:
You cannot see these codes without a diagnostic device, but you can easily check them with an OBD2 device.
4. Resetting the AdBlue System
In some cases, you may need to reset the system after all checks and repairs are completed. A diagnostic device is usually required to reset the AdBlue system in Peugeot vehicles.
It is possible to perform this process with Peugeot Lexia 3 Diagbox or similar professional diagnostic devices. The system reset process simply includes the following steps:
- Connect the diagnostic device to the OBD2 port
- Select your vehicle model and type
- Go to the "Emission Control Systems" or "SCR" menu
- Find the "Reset AdBlue System" option and start the process
- Follow the instructions given by the device
Important Warning: The system reset process should only be performed after necessary repairs and checks have been completed. Otherwise, the warning will reappear in a short time.
Peugeot DPF System and Maintenance
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a filter that reduces soot particles in the exhaust gas by approximately 85% in modern diesel vehicles. As these particles are harmful to human health and the environment, the proper functioning of the filter is of great importance.
How Does DPF Work?
DPF has a ceramic structure and captures soot particles in the exhaust gas. Over time, these accumulated particles are burned through a process called "regeneration" to clean the filter. Regeneration occurs in two ways:
Passive Regeneration
Occurs automatically under normal driving conditions at high exhaust temperatures.
Active Regeneration
Controlled by the vehicle computer and a special burning process is initiated.
DPF Warnings and Solutions
When you see a DPF warning in your Peugeot, you can follow these steps:
Review Your Driving Habits
Short-distance and low-speed driving makes it difficult for the DPF to regenerate. You can trigger regeneration by occasionally driving continuously for about 20 minutes above 2000 rpm.
Recommended Driving Technique: Driving continuously for 15-20 minutes at a speed of 70-80 km/h at least once a week facilitates DPF regeneration and extends the life of the filter.
Check the Engine Oil
Incorrect oil use or excessive oil contamination can negatively affect the DPF. Use DPF-compatible, low ash content (Low SAPS) oil and change it at regular intervals.
DPF-compatible oils are typically labeled as C1, C2, or C3 class. C2 or C3 class oil is recommended for Peugeot diesel vehicles.
Use a Diagnostic Device
Common fault codes related to DPF are:
- P2002: DPF efficiency low
- P242F: DPF extremely full
- P2453: DPF pressure sensor failure
- P2458: DPF regeneration time too long
Professional Cleaning
A severely clogged DPF may require professional cleaning. This process is performed at service centers using special equipment and chemicals.
Peugeot EGR System Maintenance and Troubleshooting
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system reduces NOx emissions by controlling the amount of exhaust gas returned to the combustion chamber. The basic working principle is to prevent NOx formation by lowering the combustion temperature.
EGR Problems and Symptoms
- Engine vibration at idle
- Shuddering at low speeds
- Power loss during acceleration
- High fuel consumption
- Ticking sounds from the engine
- Black smoke from the exhaust
Solution Methods for EGR Failures
EGR Valve Cleaning
The EGR valve, which becomes clogged with carbon deposits over time, can no longer function properly. You can solve this problem by using EGR valve cleaner sprays or by removing the valve and cleaning it manually.
Read Error Codes
Common error codes related to EGR are: P0400 (EGR flow failure), P0401 (insufficient EGR flow), P0402 (excessive EGR flow), P0403 (EGR valve circuit failure)
Check the Cooler
Modern EGR systems usually include a cooler. This part can become clogged or leak. Regular checks are recommended.
Regular Maintenance Recommendations for Emission Systems
The following regular maintenance is recommended to keep your Peugeot's emission systems healthy:
Use Quality Fuel
Low-quality fuels can damage emission systems. Purchase fuel from reliable stations.
Take Long Road Trips
Driving continuously on the highway for at least 30 minutes once a month supports DPF regeneration and cleans carbon deposits.
Pay Attention to Oil Changes
Use oil at intervals and with specifications recommended by the manufacturer.
Take Care of AdBlue Quality
Use AdBlue that meets standards and fill the tank in a timely manner.
Periodic Checks
Follow the maintenance intervals recommended by the manufacturer and have emission systems checked regularly.
Your Peugeot's emission systems are critically important for both environmentally friendly driving and optimal engine performance. Diagnosing and intervening in problems that arise in these systems early will prevent larger and more costly malfunctions.
Don't ignore warning lights, have your vehicle checked regularly, and apply the maintenance recommendations specified above. If you encounter a problem you cannot solve yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help without delay.
"Regular maintenance and proper intervention protect both your wallet and your vehicle."
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