P3833high severityPowertrain
DEF Dosing Valve Stuck Open
on 2010 Audi A3 2.0L TDI I4 · FWD
What this code means
The DEF dosing valve is stuck in the open position, causing excessive DEF injection into the exhaust.
Symptoms
- DEF consumption very high
- White exhaust smoke (DEF steam)
- Ammonia smell from exhaust
- DEF tank empties rapidly
- SCR system over-dosing
- Possible SCR catalyst damage from excess urea
Common causes
- Dosing valve stuck mechanically
- Solenoid energized continuously
- Control module error commanding open
- DEF pressure forcing valve open
- Valve return spring broken
Diagnostic steps
- Monitor DEF dosing rate vs commanded
- Check DEF consumption rate
- Test valve solenoid de-energized state
- Inspect valve for mechanical damage
- Read dosing module fault codes
Repair notes
Replace DEF dosing valve. Inspect SCR catalyst for ammonia slip or urea deposit damage.
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