The ECU has detected an implausibly low pressure difference across the diesel particulate filter – often a sign of a failed pressure sensor, blocked sensor hoses, or an exhaust leak. We rank the causes cheapest-first so you can avoid an unnecessary DPF replacement.
P244A means the differential pressure sensor is reading too low – the ECU expected a higher difference between the pressure before and after the DPF. On Land Rover diesels – especially 204DTD Ingenium and 306DT V6 – this is almost always an electrical or plumbing fault, not a DPF problem. A blocked sensor hose, a faulty sensor, or an exhaust leak are the usual culprits.
Do not replace the DPF before checking the sensor hoses and the sensor itself. Follow the cheapest-first diagnostic order below.
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) is monitored by a differential pressure sensor that measures the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the filter. A higher pressure difference indicates more soot has accumulated, triggering regeneration. P244A is set when the ECU sees a pressure difference that is too low – either because the sensor is reporting a false reading, the hoses connecting the sensor to the exhaust are blocked, or there is an exhaust leak that equalises the pressure. This code is the mirror image of P244B (high differential pressure). On Land Rover engines, the 204DTD and 306DT both use the same type of differential pressure sensor, and the hoses are known to block with soot or moisture over time. A low-pressure reading can also happen if the DPF has been removed or is physically damaged, but that is much rarer than a sensor or hose fault.
Ordered by how often each turns out to be the real culprit – with typical fitted cost against each, so you can sanity‑check any quote you've been given.
| Cause | Likelihood | Typical Cost (fitted) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blocked or kinked sensor hoses | Very High | £80–£150 | Most common – soot or moisture blocks the hoses |
| Faulty DPF differential pressure sensor | High | £150–£350 | Sensor fails electrically or mechanically |
| Exhaust leak before or after DPF | Medium | £200–£600 | Equalises pressure, giving low reading |
| Wiring or connector issue to sensor | Medium | £80–£200 | Corrosion or chafing causes signal loss |
| DPF physically damaged or missing | Low | £1,500–£2,500+ | Least common – only if the DPF has been removed or is cracked |
Cost figures [PATTERN DATA] – indicative independent‑specialist pricing based on known failure patterns for Land Rover diesel engines.
Check the two hoses from the exhaust to the sensor for blockages, kinks, or moisture. This resolves the majority of P244A cases.
Compare the sensor reading at key-on, engine-off. It should read near zero – an implausible voltage points to the sensor or wiring.
Look for corrosion, chafed wires, or loose pins – a common and cheap fix.
Check the exhaust system from turbo to tailpipe – leaks affect pressure differentials.
If the DPF is physically damaged or missing, replacement is necessary – but this is rare.
Use our diagnostic wizard to step through the same logic, or confirm your engine with the registration lookup first.
Only short distances, and with caution. P244A itself is a sensor or plumbing fault – it won't cause immediate engine damage. However, if the sensor is reading falsely low, the ECU may not initiate regeneration when the DPF is actually full, leading to a blocked DPF and eventually a much larger bill. If the code is accompanied by limp mode or black smoke, get it checked promptly. It's safe to drive gently to a specialist, but don't ignore it for weeks – the DPF could become seriously blocked.
Only short distances and with caution. It won't cause immediate breakdown, but it can prevent proper DPF regeneration, leading to a blocked filter. If you see black smoke or the car is in limp mode, get it checked promptly.
No – in most cases, a blocked sensor hose or a faulty pressure sensor is the cause. DPF replacement is the last resort. Follow the diagnostic order above to avoid an expensive misdiagnosis.
Only temporarily. The code will return if the low pressure reading persists. Clearing it also wipes freeze‑frame data that would help a specialist diagnose the root cause.
Expect 1–2 hours of diagnostic time at an independent JLR specialist – around £100–£200, often offset against the repair if you proceed with them.
For the 204DTD Ingenium, cleaning or replacing the blocked sensor hoses is the most common and cheapest fix – it resolves the code in over 60% of cases [PATTERN DATA]. Always inspect the hoses first.
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