FAQ

A diesel particulate filter (DPF) is a filter that captures and stores exhaust soot in order to reduce emissions from diesel cars. But because they only have a limited capacity, this trapped soot has to be burned off to regenerate the DPF and empty the contents. This regeneration process cleanly burns off the excess soot deposited in the filter, reducing the harmful exhaust emission. It’s a great design that is good for your car and the environment.

Legislation states that all diesel cars manufactured since September 2009 must be fitted with a DPF in the exhaust to stop harmful soot from passing into the atmosphere. The Euro 5 standard for diesels stipulates this must be included on all diesel vehicles but be mindful of the fact that some cars built before September 2009 were fitted with DPFs.

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle has a DPF filter or not please get in touch and we’ll be happy to confirm based on your vehicle’s make, model or registration.

DID YOU KNOW? Your vehicle can fail its MOT if your DPF filter is not functioning properly!

Please note: Petrol engine vehicles do not use Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs).

A DPF filter can become blocked over time. Potential causes could include a faulty sensor, incorrect engine oil, a failing turbo or most commonly the vehicle has undertaken too many short journeys where the filter’s regeneration processes has not been initiated. At first, you may be alerted to an engine failure warning light and if ignored, the engine could switch to ‘limp’ mode. At this stage, the vehicle will only allow you to drive very slowly with the intention that you’re to take the car either home or to your nearest garage for inspection and repair.

If the DPF filter is blocked beyond repair then a new DPF filter can cost around £1,000, with premium cars costing upwards of £3,500, ultimately wiping out any of the savings associated with owning a diesel engine over a petrol version. Regular cleaning of the DPF can maintain and significantly prolong the life of your filter and ensure you may never have to fork out a hefty sum to replace it.

In the short term, a DPF clean can increase your vehicle’s power output, increasing speed, acceleration and responsiveness. As well as this, you can often expect boosted fuel efficiency – the potential fuel savings could cover the cost of the clean over time! In addition to this, a clean will continue to serve its purpose which is to reduce harmful emissions, reduce engine noise and resolve MOT emissions failures. – That’s right, a blocked filter could easily lead to a failed MOT.

Whilst the cleaning time of your DPF will depend on how dirty or congested the filter is, it typically takes 2-3 hours to have your DPF filter restored like new. In some instances where the DPF is really blocked, it can take up to 6 hours but overall the process is quite speedy.

Our hugely popular DPF Filter Cleaning Service starts from only £199.