Q: My Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Light is on ?

A: This indicates a fault or regeneration (cleaning) problem with the Diesel Particluate Filter (DPF).

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Fault Diagnostics

When a fault is first indicated with the DPF filter it is important to first confirm the fault is with the DPF itself and not one of the sensors associated with the exhaust / DPF system. This is achieved by reading the fault codes from the vehicle, confirming these do not indicate a sensor failure and confirming the soot levels within the DPF are within the regeneration zone.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration (cleaning)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) indicator signifies your vehicle's DPF filter has not been regenerated (cleaned) and will require a manual / static regeration. Once this service is indicated it is advisable to have the procedure carried out as soon as possible to avoid long term and possibly expensive damage to the filter - (a replacement filter can cost up to £1,800).

Why does the DPF need regeneration / cleaning ?

The DPF filter traps carbon particles, filtering exhaust gases as they pass through. Like any filter this must be regenerated (cleaned) to restore it to full operation. Under normal circumstances the regeneration process is carried out by the car itself when the engine/emissions management system detects the DPF is in need of regeneration. However Diesel vehicles used only for short journeys do not provide the system sufficient opportunity to regenerate the DPF, resulting in a fault developing. This fault is indicated by the DPF / engine management fault indicator illuminating and/or a fault message on vehicles equipped with display centers.

Alternatively read about our Vehicle Diagnostic Package to have the fault diagnosed and rectified