Diesel Particle Filters (DPF's) can be found in all diesel vehicles after 2007. A DPF captures soot from the combustion chambers, preventing harmful particles from being released from the exhaust and damaging the environment.

 

The DPF has a self-cleaning function that runs automatically during driving this is called a passive regeneration, If you do too many short journeys the system will not have enough time to clear the soot that has built up within the DPF, the performance of your vehicle will be affected and eventually go into LIMP MODE, it can be a costly fix. 

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DPF Filters became standard requirements in 2008 as emissions regulations tightened. Although they help protect the environment.

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DPF Filter Cleaning

There are many ways to clean your DPF filter. You can either clear it yourself by burning the soot away or have it cleaned professionally by DPF SPEACIALISTS. 

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The best option to clean your DPF is by following these steps:

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1. Heat the engine

The cheapest method of DPF filter cleaning is by driving the vehicle for a long distance at high revs per minute, 2500RPM and above. This increases the heat of the exhaust system and helps burn the soot  that is clogging the DPF. It's best to drive on a motorway or A roads where you can keep the vehicle at a consistent speed.

Some vehicles are fitted with a vaporiser that injects extra fuel into the exhaust to raise the temperature. This process is called 'active regeneration', which causes your vehicle's fuel economy to drop, and the engine noise to change. As the temperature of the exhaust heats up, it burns the soot away. However, this only happens if your car is moving and not stop-starting in traffic. Vaporisers are mainly found on FORD vehicles and are also prone to clogging up. 

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2. Use the recommended oil 

Using the recommended manufactured oil can help with keeping the DPF filter clean. You should only use the specified oil as this will be specially made for your diesel vehicles. Once you have topped the engine with the correct oil, you will need to check the oil level regularly to make sure it doesn't run low.

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3. Use premium fuel

You should consider using premium fuels only and keep to ESSO, BP, SHELL and steer clear of supermarket fuels as they are generally less refined. Although premium fuel is more expensive you generally get more miles per gallon in turn costing the same, It will save you from expensive garage costs to clear or replace the filter.

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4. Keeping Topped Up

You should keep the fuel level above 15litres (quarter of a tank) the general cycle of a regeneration requires 15ltrs and above.

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5. Don't ignore your warning lights

The DPF warning light should not be ignored. If the light comes on, do not stop driving as this can make the blockage worse. You should continue driving to clear the soot until the warning light turns off. If this doesn't work, you will need to take the vehicle to a garage or have it professionally cleaned.

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6. Regular servicing

To help with DPF filter cleaning, you will need to schedule regular servicing for your vehicle. Services usually include an oil change by flushing out the existing oil and replacing it with new, clean oil that will help keep the DPF filter clean.

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If you only drive short distances, you may find that your DPF filters are prone to blocking. You can try these DPF filter cleaning tips, but diesel vehicles generally perform better at long-distance driving and its recommended that you drive at least once a week for 15-20 minutes at a consistence speed.