How to Look After Your DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)

Your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a vital part of your vehicle’s emission system. It traps harmful soot particles and prevents them from being released into the atmosphere. However, like any filter, it needs looking after to keep your car running smoothly and to avoid costly repairs.

Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your DPF clean and working perfectly.

1. Drive the Vehicle Properly

DPFs are designed to self-clean through a process called regeneration. For this to happen, your car needs to reach and maintain higher temperatures.

• Take your car for longer drives: Ideally 20–30 minutes at motorway speeds (around 2,000+ RPM).
• Avoid short stop-start trips: Frequent short journeys don’t give the DPF a chance to regenerate.
• Use the right gear: Driving at low revs all the time won’t build enough heat. Occasionally drive in a lower gear at higher revs to help burn off soot.

2. Use the Right Fuel and Oil

• Low-ash engine oil: Always use oil that meets your vehicle’s specification (usually “low-SAPS” oil). Using the wrong oil can block the filter quicker.
• Good quality diesel: Cheap or poor-quality fuel can increase soot buildup. Branded fuels or those with detergents help keep the system cleaner.
• Fuel additives: Occasionally using a DPF cleaning additive can assist with regeneration and keep soot levels lower.

3. Keep the Engine Healthy

Problems elsewhere can quickly clog the DPF. Watch out for:

• Faulty sensors (EGR, MAP, temperature, or pressure sensors).
• Leaking injectors or poor fuel spray patterns.
• Turbocharger issues causing excess soot.
• EGR valves sticking which feed too much exhaust gas back in.

A well-maintained engine means a longer-lasting DPF.

4. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights

If your DPF warning light comes on:

1. Don’t ignore it. Carrying on as normal can cause permanent blockage.
2. Take the car for a regeneration drive (as described above).
3. If the light doesn’t clear, seek professional cleaning before it turns into an expensive replacement.

5. Professional Cleaning and Maintenance

Even with good habits, soot and ash will build up over time. A professional DPF clean can restore your filter back to nearly-new efficiency and avoid the huge cost of replacement.

At GC Tuning, we offer:

• On-car chemical cleans.
• Manual/advanced DPF cleaning.
• Full diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of blockages.

6. Quick Tips for DPF Longevity

✅ Regular long drives at proper revs.
✅ Stick to high-quality fuel and low-ash oil.
✅ Keep up with servicing and diagnostics.
✅ Act fast if a warning light appears.
✅ Book periodic DPF cleans as part of your maintenance.

Why Look After Your DPF?

• Prevents expensive replacements (a new DPF can cost £1,000+).
• Keeps your vehicle running at peak performance.
• Reduces breakdowns and limp mode.
• Helps the environment by cutting emissions.

📞 Need a DPF clean or diagnostic check?

Call us on 07308537786 or Whatsapp