How does a DPF Diesel Particulate Filter work?
22 June 2023
A Diesel Particulate Filter , or DPF, is a filter on a diesel engine (car, van, commercialm marine or other) that captures and stores exhaust deposits in order to reduce emissions for diesel cars
DPF's became mandatory in the UK on all diesel cars in 2008/2009 . Before this many cars and vans had them, but they were not required by law. The DPF filter captures and stores soot particles and prevents them from being dispersed into the atmosphere. Many years ago, black smoke plumes were a common sight on many diesels. The DPF effectively stops that from happening. This soot needs to be burnt off at regular periods in accordance to manufacturer instructions, but sometimes this is not enough and a professional DPF clean is required
We've tried to answer some additional basic questions you may have about your DPF below.
How do I know if my DPF needs cleaning?
Generally, a light will appear on the dashboard that will look like a puff of smoke or soot, although it can vary. If a DPF is clogged, then a fault develops in the system, an orange light will typically appear on the dashboard
How often does a DPF need cleaning?
The amount of time it takes to clear a DPF depends on the type of filter, the engine’s use, and the mileage driven. Generally, it takes about 500-1,000 miles for a DPF to clear out the collected soot and particulates
How much does it cost to clean a DPF system?
It varies from place to place, but the regeneration of diesel particulate filter ranges from £160 to £500
Is DPF cleaning effective at fixing the issue?
Yes, DPF cleaning is recommended to avoid expensive repair bills and keep your car running smoothly.
What happens if you don’t clean DPF?
Short journeys at low speeds are the prime cause of blocked diesel particulate filters. If not maintained or if tampered with, there could be serious consequences for your car. Neglecting DPF maintenance can result in plugged DPF, low vehicle power, engine derate, cracked DPF, melted filters, and engine damage
How long does a cleaned DPF last?
A well-maintained DPF should last for at least 100,000 miles
Is a blocked DPF an MOT failure?
Yes, a blocked DPF is an MOT failure.
Can I drive my car with a blocked DPF?
It’s not recommended to drive your car with a blocked DPF as it can cause serious damage to your engine. If you continue driving with a blocked DPF, you may experience reduced power and fuel economy.