P244B on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too High (Bank 1)
1 Ford model · 1 documented issue · $400-$2,500 repair
P244B on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Diesel Fiestas frequently suffer diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockage and incomplete/failed regeneration, especially on cars used mainly for short, low-speed journeys that never reach regeneration temperature. Soot accumulates, the DPF warning light appears, and the car may enter limp mode or dump excess fuel into the oil during failed active regens (raising oil level and diluting it). Underlying triggers are often other faults — a leaking/faulty injector, stuck EGR, blocked intake, or failed DPF differential-pressure/EGT sensor — so the blocked DPF is frequently a symptom rather than the root cause.
Common Symptoms
- DPF / exhaust warning light
- Limp mode / reduced power
- Frequent regeneration attempts
- Rising engine oil level (fuel dilution)
- Excess smoke or smell
- Poor fuel economy after failed regen
How to Fix
When the DPF light shows, drive at a steady 40+ mph for ~20 minutes to allow passive/active regeneration before it fully blocks. If blocked, run a forced regeneration and diagnose the root cause: test the DPF pressure and EGT sensors, check EGR operation, and inspect for a leaking injector causing oil dilution. Clean or replace the DPF if soot loading is beyond limits, and change oil if fuel-diluted.
Sources for this issue (1)
P244B code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P244B mean on a Ford?
P244B stands for "Diesel Particulate Filter Differential Pressure Too High (Bank 1)." This code applies to diesel vehicles and means the engine computer detected that the pressure difference across the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is higher than allowed, indicating the filter is heavily restricted. The DPF traps soot from the exhaust and is periodically cleaned through regeneration. Excessively high differential pressure means too much soot or ash is clogging the filter. This can reduce power, trigger limp mode, and risk damaging the DPF or turbo if ignored, so it should be addressed promptly. On Ford it is documented across 1 model: Fiesta.
What are the most common causes of P244B?
The most common causes of P244B are: Clogged DPF from soot or ash accumulation, Failed or incomplete regeneration cycles, Faulty DPF differential pressure sensor, Frequent short-trip driving preventing regen, Faulty EGR causing excess soot, Blocked or kinked pressure sensor hoses, Faulty exhaust temperature sensor affecting regen. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P244B on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $400 to $2,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P244B on a different make?
View P244B across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.