5 Signs Your DPF is Blocked (and How Our Mobile DPF Cleaning in Hartlepool & Teesside Can Help)

GC Tuning • October 14, 2025

If your diesel feels sluggish, drinks more fuel than normal, or shows a dreaded warning light, there’s a good chance your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is blocked. This is one of the most common issues we see across Hartlepool, Teesside, Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle and North Yorkshire—and ignoring it can quickly lead to expensive repairs.


At GC Tuning & Performance, we specialise in mobile DPF cleaning, diagnostics, and ECU remapping. Every week we restore 15–25 vehicles to full health. Here’s how to spot the early warning signs before it’s too late.


1. Loss of Power & Poor Acceleration

A blocked DPF restricts exhaust flow, so your engine struggles to breathe. If your car feels heavy, especially on hills or motorways, the DPF may be the cause.

2. Increased Fuel Consumption

If you’ve noticed you’re visiting the pump more often, your DPF might be forcing the engine to work harder, burning more diesel.

3. Dashboard Warning Light

The DPF warning light is a clear sign. Don’t ignore it—book a professional clean to avoid limp mode or permanent damage.

4. Frequent Regenerations

If your fan kicks in more often or your idle feels rough, your car may be attempting—and failing—to regenerate the filter.

5. Limp Mode Activation

When the ECU senses danger, it limits performance. If you’re stuck in limp mode, you need help fast.


How to Prevent DPF Problems



  • Drive at motorway speeds for 15–20 minutes to allow regeneration.
  • Use quality diesel and avoid running on empty.
  • Keep sensors like EGR and MAF in good condition.
  • Book a professional DPF clean before blockages cause major issues.

Mobile DPF Cleaning in Hartlepool & Teesside


GC Tuning is a family-run, fully insured mobile service. We come to you—at home, work, or trade premises—and restore your DPF quickly and cost-effectively.

✔ DPF chemical cleaning from £180
✔ Full diagnostics included
✔ ECU remapping and performance upgrades available
✔ Covering Hartlepool, Teesside, Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle, and North Yorkshire


Book Your DPF Clean Today


🚗 Don’t let a blocked DPF ruin your car.
📞 Call us on 07308537786 or message us on WhatsApp.

GC Tuning & Performance — your trusted mobile DPF specialists in Hartlepool & the North East.

If your car feels sluggish, burns more fuel than usual, or shows a dreaded warning light, there’s a good chance your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is crying out for help. A blocked DPF is one of the most common issues we see across Hartlepool, Teesside, and the wider North East—and leaving it too long can mean a huge repair bill.

At GC Tuning & Performance, we clean, diagnose, and help prevent DPF problems every week. Here’s how to spot the early warning signs before it becomes a major headache.