P246C fault code: what it means

P246C: DPF soot load too high on a Ford diesel, with power limited until the filter is cleaned. Often the result of an air leak rather than the filter itself.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Costly if missed

Usual causes, most likely first

boost or intercooler pipe leak causing extra soot
short-trip driving
DPF pressure sensor

P246C by make

Ford

DPF soot load too high on a Ford diesel, with power limited until the filter is cleaned. Often the result of an air leak rather than the filter itself.

Usual causes: boost or intercooler pipe leak causing extra soot; short-trip driving; DPF pressure sensor

Mazda

SkyActiv-D: PCM calculates the oil is too diluted with diesel (oil pressure dropping). From frequent DPF regens on short-trip cars. Change oil and reset the oil data.

Usual causes: oil diluted by frequent DPF regeneration (short trips); oil data not reset at last oil change

What the repair usually costs

CVT valve body replacement (remanufactured, in car)NZ$1,280–NZ$2,420 · A$1,200–A$2,400
Basic service: engine oil and filter change (car)NZ$120–NZ$260 · A$120–A$260
Basic service: engine oil and filter change (SUV / diesel ute / 4WD)NZ$190–NZ$370 · A$180–A$360
Basic service: engine oil and filter change (European)NZ$220–NZ$420 · A$210–A$400

Not sure what P246C means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.