If you own a car with a diesel engine, you have surely come across a problem known as the DPF, that is, the diesel particulate filter. The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) is a component of the exhaust system whose job is to trap the harmful particulates emitted by a diesel engine. Unfortunately, frequent driving in city traffic, where the car moves at low speed, as well as an insufficient engine operating temperature, can lead to the particulate filter becoming clogged. In such a case it is necessary to burn it off, that is, to burn away the deposits accumulated inside it. In this article we explain how to burn off a DPF step by step.
How to burn off a DPF?
A clogged DPF results not only in problems with exhaust emissions, but also has a negative impact on engine operation and increases the cost of running the car. A commonly encountered problem is DPF failure, which requires replacing it with a new one. That is why, if you notice that the DPF in your car is starting to cause problems, it is worth taking steps aimed at burning off the particulate filter. In this article we will show you how to burn off a DPF yourself.
Check the AdBlue fluid level
Before you begin burning off the DPF, it is worth checking the AdBlue fluid level. This is a fluid that, in cars with a diesel engine, is used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. A lack of AdBlue fluid or an insufficient level can negatively affect the DPF burn-off process.
Take the car for a drive on the motorway
Burning off the DPF requires maintaining the proper engine temperature for a set period of time. The best way to reach the proper temperature is to drive on the motorway at a speed above 80 km/h. While driving on the motorway, the engine reaches a high temperature, which allows the deposits accumulated in the DPF to be burned away.
Turn off the air conditioning
While driving on the motorway it is worth turning off the air conditioning to avoid lowering the engine temperature. The air conditioning draws energy from the engine, which negatively affects its temperature and hinders the DPF burn-off process.
Monitor the engine operating parameters
While driving on the motorway it is worth monitoring the engine operating parameters using a special scanner or software. It is important that the engine operates within the proper parameters, which will speed up the DPF burn-off process. If you notice any irregularities, it is worth consulting a mechanic.
Perform a DPF regeneration using software
If burning off the DPF yourself has not produced the expected results, it is worth using a DPF regeneration performed with software. This regeneration consists of entering special parameters into the engine system, which enables it to burn off automatically.
How often should the DPF be burned off?
How often the DPF needs to be burned off depends on driving style and the car’s operating conditions. Depending on how often we drive in city traffic and how long we maintain a low speed, the DPF may require burning off every few hundred kilometres.
What are the symptoms of a clogged DPF?
The symptoms of a clogged DPF include, among others, a drop in engine power, increased fuel consumption, the appearance of the DPF warning light on the dashboard, as well as problems with filter regeneration.
Can you burn off a DPF yourself?
Yes, burning off a DPF yourself is possible, but it requires proper preparation and following certain rules. The most important thing is to maintain the proper engine temperature for a set period of time, which allows the deposits accumulated in the DPF to be burned away.
Burning off a DPF is a complex process that requires proper preparation and following certain rules. It is, however, worth taking steps aimed at burning off the particulate filter in order to avoid a costly replacement of the DPF with a new one. Remember that maintaining the proper engine temperature for a set period of time is crucial for effectively burning off the DPF.
