Owners are often confused about what it means to be “DPF-fitted” diesel. A filter for an exhaust that is fitted to most modern diesel cars is called DPF.

It is used to remove harmful gasses, such as fuels, hydrocarbons and lubricants, and water and Sulphates. These substances are able to attach themselves to soot and may create harmful particles in the exhaust of diesel engines.

The dangerous gasses can result from several factors such as improper or inadequate maintenance, low-quality fuel, bad driving habits, and poor combustion. The DPF filter captures the particles, and then regenerated or cleaned via high-temperature fires. If this process fails and the filter gets blocked, issues can result.

Diesel particulate filter is described as a complex and costly component that needs to be replaced but I have found to be not the case. If monitored and diagnosed correctly, replacement is not necessary.

If a DPF fault becomes present in the computer of the engine, it DOES not necessarily mean that it means that the DPF has been blocked.

What are the signs of blocked DPF filter

You may notice the following signs that your DPF is blocked.

• Surging/poor performance.
• Excessive fuel consumption.
• Excessive smoke – white black, blue. Displayed Engine and/or DPF Lights for emissions. It is difficult to start the engine.
• The engine runs rough.
• Regeneration attempts that fail

What are the definitions of regeneration?

The vehicle’s computer-embedded algorithms run periodic regenerates (burns), which increase the temperature of the exhaust in order to “burn” away” any particles or soot. If a component is unable to function correctly, it can increase the number of regenerations or end them together until the issue is resolved. Regenerations cause the emission of excessive black smoke from the exhaust. This is not harmful. Only if smoke blows continuously is it a sign that an underlying problem needs immediate attention.

How can you minimize the chance of DPF failure/blockage?

• Ensure that your mechanic is experienced and knowledgeable in diesel engines
• Avoid Incorrect oil and services that are not present.
• Beware of driving with an issue in your vehicle (dash warning light).
• Beware of diesel fuel that is of low quality.
• Modify your car carefully I have to deal with driving behaviors that result in DPF to reduce idle time and increase the rpm when I am driving (dropping down the car), especially in crawling traffic.
• Help your mechanic understand changes with your vehicle such as louder whistles, hissing noise or jerking feeling whilst driving.
• These changes can result in the DPF stop regenerating.
• Avoid making use of “on vehicle intake/induction cleaners” even if your mechanic has recommended them. They can damage DPFs and other crucial components.
• Components that fail and cause DPF problems do not always indicate that the DPF has to be replaced.
• Maintained DPFs are capable of covering more than 200,000 miles before they are taken away for replacement or cleaning.

How much will it cost to clean or replace the DPF?

First, a warning: DPF work MUST be performed by a skilled certified mechanic who has the right equipment to repair and reset the DPF. After the initial fault has been found, the DPF should then be taken off.
An excellent DPF cleaning service should have at most five years of experience in cleaning. They also can determine if the DPF is in fact damaged inside the house. A mechanic can test the DPF on the vehicle to determine if it’s blocked.

They cannot confirm whether the DPF is collapsed or melted internally creating the blockage. A car for a passenger costs about $600 in clean costs.
Vehicles with DPF’s are available in a variety of configurations. Manufacturers change their designs frequently and it is difficult to tell if the DPF is installed on a specific vehicle.
The DPF is considered the most strictly controlled component of motor vehicles. They do not disclose the identity of the DPF manufacturer.