ModerateAffected: 2011-201860,000–110,000 miles

Ford Focus Mk3 2.0 TDCi — DPF Vaporiser Failure

Ford uses a 5th injector (vaporiser) in the exhaust to regenerate the DPF. This vaporiser clogs with soot, preventing regeneration.

Severity

Moderate

DIY Difficulty

Moderate

Est. Cost

£250–£350

OBD Codes

P24A4P244C

Component Diagram

DPF

Typical layout and location for the DPF assembly.

Reference Illustration

Symptoms

Engine Management Light
DPF Blocked warning
Fault code P24A4 or P244C (Exhaust temperature too low for DPF regeneration)

Root Cause

Soot blocks the tiny nozzle of the vaporiser, or its internal glow plug burns out.

How To Fix

Replace the DPF vaporiser unit (£150 part). Clear fault codes and force a static regeneration. Cost: £250-350 fitted.

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair Option	Est. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)	£100–£140
Independent Garage	£250–£350
Main Dealership	£400–£560

Other Faults on This Variant

Powershift Dual Clutch Gearbox Failure

Critical

2011-201550,000–100,000 miles£1800–£2500

The 6-speed Powershift (MPS6/6DCT450) automatic gearbox is notoriously fragile. Internal plastic parts shatter, clogging the transmission filter.

Steering Rack Motor Failure (EPS)

Critical

2011-201850,000–120,000 miles£800–£1200

The Electronic Power Steering rack on the Mk3 Focus suffers from water ingress, causing the motor to short out.

Air Conditioning Condenser Leak (Stone Damage)

Minor

2011-201840,000–120,000 miles£250–£450

The air conditioning condenser is mounted at the very front of the cooling pack, making it highly susceptible to stone damage from the road, leading to refrigerant loss.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.