Cleaning a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is an essential part of maintaining your vehicle’s exhaust system. Over time, soot and ash build up in the DPF, which can lead to blockages, reduced performance, and even costly engine damage. Keeping the DPF clean ensures the filter works as intended, allowing your engine to run efficiently while staying within emissions standards. In this blog, we’ll look at the process of DPF cleaning, why it’s important, and the different methods used to keep your filter functioning at its best.
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a device fitted to diesel vehicles to reduce emissions. It captures and stores soot particles produced during combustion, preventing them from being released into the atmosphere. Over time, these particles accumulate, and the filter needs to be cleaned to maintain performance. If left unaddressed, a clogged DPF can cause back pressure in the engine, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and potential engine damage.
Regular DPF cleaning is vital for several reasons:
If you regularly drive short distances or in stop-start traffic, your DPF may clog more frequently, as it doesn’t get the chance to regenerate during normal driving.
There are several ways to clean a DPF filter. Here, we’ll go over the most common methods:
Passive regeneration is the natural process where the DPF burns off the accumulated soot as part of normal driving. This occurs when the exhaust temperature reaches a high enough level, typically during long motorway journeys. For many drivers, especially those who drive frequently on motorways, passive regeneration is enough to keep the DPF clean without the need for additional cleaning methods. However, for those who regularly drive short distances, passive regeneration may not occur often enough, leading to the need for more active cleaning methods.
If passive regeneration isn’t sufficient, the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) may initiate active regeneration. This involves increasing the exhaust temperature by injecting fuel into the engine, which helps burn off the soot in the DPF. During active regeneration, you may notice certain symptoms, such as:
Active regeneration is usually triggered when the DPF becomes around 45% full. If you notice the DPF warning light on your dashboard, it’s a sign that the filter is becoming clogged and active regeneration may be needed.
When both passive and active regeneration fail to clear the blockage, forced regeneration is required. This process is carried out by a professional mechanic using specialised equipment to clean the DPF. Forced regeneration involves heating the DPF to a very high temperature to burn off the soot and ash that has accumulated.
This method is more thorough than active or passive regeneration and is often the last resort before considering more costly options, such as DPF replacement. It’s particularly useful for vehicles that have been driven for extended periods without allowing the DPF to regenerate naturally.
In cases where the DPF is heavily clogged, professional DPF filter cleaning may be the best option. This involves removing the filter from the vehicle and using specialist equipment to clean it thoroughly. There are two common methods of professional cleaning:
Professional cleaning is highly effective and can restore a heavily clogged DPF to near-new condition. It’s typically carried out as part of routine maintenance or when other regeneration methods have failed.
There are a few telltale signs that your DPF may need cleaning:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to address the issue promptly to avoid more significant problems down the line.
The frequency of DPF cleaning depends on your driving habits. If you regularly drive long distances on motorways, your DPF may clean itself through passive regeneration, meaning additional cleaning may not be necessary. However, if you frequently drive short distances or in heavy traffic, your DPF may clog more often, requiring more frequent cleaning or even professional intervention. A good rule of thumb is to have your DPF checked during regular vehicle servicing, especially if you notice any of the warning signs mentioned earlier.
In most cases, DPF cleaning is an effective and essential part of maintaining your diesel vehicle. By keeping the filter clean, you’ll enhance engine performance, reduce emissions, and avoid costly repairs or replacements. If you notice any signs of a clogged filter, it’s important to address the issue quickly.If you’re unsure about the state of your DPF or think it needs cleaning, contact our DPF Clean Team. Our professional services can help restore your vehicle’s performance and ensure your DPF is functioning as it should.