How to Perform a Regeneration on a DPF Filter


When people look at their vehicles, they usually believe that every little fitting and feature they have installed currently is going to be what they can get. However, this could not be further from the truth, as the majority of people can fit new little extras onto their vehicles – and many vehicles could benefit from a Diesel Particular Filter. Otherwise known as a DPF, this works absolute miracles for some people and can be hugely beneficial.

A DPF Filter is a filter which removes specific particulates as well as soot from the exhaust gases. This helps improve a lot of little things about the car, making it run smoother than ever before. However, it does run out of life at some stage too and will need replaced – they aren’t immortal, sadly. However, the main DPF Filtercause of a DPF dying out is actually problems elsewhere as they don’t have a tendency to just die out on you on their own.

The majority of DPF filters come with some kind of warning light system, allowing you to notice when they need to be regenerated and kind of kicked back into life. This might sound tough and extremely long winded, but it’s really not – trust us! Make sure that you read your car handbook as it will tell you the indicators for your specific DPF filter that it requires assistance.

So, when you see this light pop up you know that you need to carry out a forced generation. This can take some time, and can be a little difficult to put in place in the first place, but once you get it right the first couple of times it becomes so much easier in future.

To start off with, make sure that your car is parked outside in neutral, that the hand break is on, and that it has at least a quarter of a fuel tank left. Make sure no fault codes are stored within the DPF filter itself, and then you can get started.

If the engine light comes on first, then the DPF light, then you know that it’s an issue with the DPF system like a temperature fault or damaged sensors. Next, you can start checking out specific areas of the DPF filter and vehicle in general such as;

  • Pressure sensors – water build-ups can be quite common here
  • Pressure pipes – Damage can occur over time and may be the source of the problem
  • EGR Systems – Ensure that they are turning on properly
  • Check the oil for diesel contamination which is one of the most common problems that this occurs in the first place. If this happens, you’ll need to carry out a full oil change and then replace the oil filter
  • Ensure that your vehicle is using the right and specific engine oil, as well

If Your Struggling Call A Professional

Dealing with this problem can be a real nightmare if you aren’t sure what to do, and you will usually need some form of EEC DPF diagnostic software to carry out the diagnosis properly. If you can’t afford or don’t’ have anything like this then your best bet is to hire a professional who can carry out the extensive repair service for you.