DPF regeneration: understanding the basics and cost
If you drive a diesel car, chances are you’ve heard of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration. For many, the moment of recognition comes when the warning light’s popped up unexpectedly or the vehicle’s engine struggling a bit. It’s one of those things that can catch you out, especially if most of your driving is short trips or around town. That said, understanding what’s going on inside your DPF and how the regeneration process works can save you a fair bit of stress and money.
Whether you’re trying to make sense of a stubborn warning light or just want to avoid future issues, this guide will walk you through the essentials of DPF regeneration. We’ll look at the different types, what can go wrong, how to spot the signs and what kind of costs you might be looking at if it all goes pear-shaped.
What is DPF regeneration?
Your DPF is a key part of your vehicle’s exhaust system, designed to trap excess soot before it exits into the atmosphere. Over time, that soot builds up. Normally, your car handles this through a process called regeneration, which burns off the soot at high exhaust temperatures. There are two types of regeneration:
- Passive regeneration
This happens naturally when you drive at sustained speeds, typically on a motorway or A-road. The temperature of the exhaust gets high enough to burn off the soot. A regular 30 to 50 minute run at consistent speed usually does the job. - Active regeneration
If your driving habits involve short journeys or low speed driving, passive regeneration might not be enough. In this case, your engine’s ECU will inject extra fuel to raise the exhaust temperature and trigger the cleaning process. But if the journey is too short, the cycle may not complete, leaving your DPF system partially blocked.
Below are common signs that active regeneration is taking place:
- A change in engine sound
- Cooling fans running after you stop
- Slight increase in fuel consumption
- Higher idle speed
- Stop/start system turned off
- A strong smell from the exhaust
If neither passive nor active regeneration works, and the DPF light stays on, it’s important to act quickly before more damage occurs.
What affects DPF regeneration cost?
The cost of resolving DPF problems very much depends on the condition of the filter and how badly it’s blocked.
DIY regeneration by taking the vehicle on a longer run is free, aside from fuel. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need a professional DPF cleaning service of the kind offered by Mobile Eco Tuning. This might involve a deep clean using specialist equipment, checks on sensors and a full system reset to restore performance and clear the warning lights.
In severe cases where the filter is beyond repair, you may be looking at a replacement. This is significantly more expensive and best avoided where possible.
Why regular DPF maintenance is worth it
Looking after your DPF not only prevents bigger repair bills but also keeps your fuel economy and engine performance in good shape. A clean filter means your diesel engine can run more efficiently and is less likely to trigger faults or fail the particulate filter check during your MOT.
To help maintain your DPF:
- Avoid frequent short, low speed journeys
- Take your car for regular motorway drives
- Keep an eye on warning lights
- Use good quality diesel
- Respond quickly to any signs of trouble
At Mobile Eco Tuning, we specialise in diagnosing and restoring blocked DPFs with professional cleaning that gets your car back to its best. Whether you need advice or a full regeneration service, we’re here to help keep your diesel vehicle running smoothly.
- For more details about DPF cleaning, contact us here.
