What is a Diesel Particulate Filter (or DPF filters)?
A Diesel Particulate Filter is a device installed on all new generation diesel vehicles. Its main function is to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.
What are the different types of Diesel Particulate Filter (or DPF)?
There are two main types of DPF Filter:
- Passive systems use O2 or NO2 Based Regeneration and require no additional inputs only the exhaust gas stream itself. These are used to work at lower temperatures and are seen in most European cars.
- Active systems use additional energy from the engines injector system which is vapourised into the cars exhaust system to raise the temperature and start regeneration.
How do DPF Filters work?
Some filters are single-use, intended for disposal and replacement once full of accumulated ash. These are not used on diesel vehicles. The filters used on diesel vehicles are designed to burn off the accumulated particulate either passively through the use of a catalyst or by active means such as a fuel burner which heats the filter to soot combustion temperatures. This is known as “filter regeneration“.
How effective are DPF Filters?
Diesel particulate filters usually remove 85% or more of the soot, and under certain conditions can reach removal efficiencies of close to 100%.
What does the DPF Light on my dash mean?
The DPF warning light on your dash indicates that the filter is not working as intended or is in need of dpf cleaning or dpf regeneration. Sensors within the dpf monitor the back pressure and temperature of the exhaust system to ensure it is working correctly. When the readings from these sensors are outside a pre-programmed limit, they will trigger the warning. Once activated, the light should trigger a regeneration cycle of the filter or could indicate that the device is faulty and you may need a dpf replacement.
How much is a DPF regeneration
Our DPF cleaning service costs €180 across all makes and models of vehicle and takes, on average, an hour to complete.