Diesel particular filters or DPFs are now one of the best methods of choice for numerous manufacturers to deal with soot and ash after burning diesel. In essence, they function as an exhaust filter that collects soot and stores it until it is processed during a DPF burn.

We are all about performance and we are all aware that any restriction is going to affect the performance of an engine. So what can we do about the DPF? What exactly is it? And how to look after it?

The DPF can be removed from the exhaust and software. This is a simple solution to almost every problem due to having a dpf filter. It is not my intention to detail the legalities of getting rid of any emission-related device. I am simply saying that is the most straightforward solution.

One good thing about DPF is that it DPF is reducing soot getting into the atmosphere. One might say it is a benefit for the environment. It’s a vague claim at best. It is important for a DPF’s regeneration or rid itself of the soot every now and then. The way this is achieved is to make the DPF sufficiently hot to burn off the soot and ensure it will pass through the filter. Another way to achieve this is when the ECU injects additional fuel to generate the additional temperature in the filter for it to melt away the soot. In this way, it consumes more fuel (not green), and an amount of this fuel enters the engine sump diluting the engine’s oil. This could lead to additional oil or filter replacements.

Similar to how catalytic converters work when introduced and lead was eliminated from the fuel as it could cause a problem for the converter. Cars with DPFs require special oils that are low in sulfate ash and sulfur, phosphorus, and sulfur (low in saps). An oil that isn’t properly used will block the DPF and prevent regeneration making it essential to replace the DPF. One negative aspect of DPF is the price to replace it.

There is a belief that the requirement for oil in the DPF makes the internal wear rates of the engine higher than if ordinary oil was utilized. We’ll discuss that another day.

A major issue that we come across when dealing with DPFs is when a boost leak occurs. A boost leak could cause an increase in soot and smoke within the exhaust system and will block the DPF very quickly. After the leak has been repaired, then a DPF clean will almost always be necessary. We can do a DPF cleaning with the DPF still installed on the car. After the DPF clean is complete, there is the possibility of a regen. Whenever it is necessary to conduct a regen that is forced, an oil change for the engine is needed following the regen. What is the reason, you should remember prior to when additional fuel is injected to make the DPF sufficiently hot to allow it to be able to regulate the engine, this fuel is going to dilute the engine oil.

So what is a forced regen anyway? The process of forcing a regen involves using a scan tool in order to start a fire while it is in stationery. In most cases, a forced burn will utilize higher temperatures, and the tool used to regulate the pressures in the DPF when it is in use. Special tools are required for the forced regen so your average mechanic may not be equipped to handle this. Be aware that you do not have to use the dealer. We like a number of well-equipped workshops do have the devices to do the forced regen.

In more extreme circumstances, a forced regen may not be possible due to the amount of soot that is loaded. The next step in the process is an on-car cleaning. The tool for cleaning your car involves two steps. The cleaner is injected into the DPF and processes the soot within a specific amount of time. The cleaner is then purged out of the system, leaving the DPF in good condition for a regen. The equipment for cleaning cars isn’t as common in a workshop to have. We are also able to assist in cleaning your car DPF cleaning.

This is just a brief overview of the DPF and a few of the advantages and disadvantages associated with its usage.