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Diesel particulate filters (DPF) are installed in many post-2007 vehicle exhausts to reduce emissions by eliminating soot and ash. Yet, soot and ash do build up in the filter over fourth dimension. Frequently this can exist removed using active regeneration or cleaning additives, but sometimes professional cleaning past a mechanic is necessary.

  1. 1

    Spotter for the DPF symbol, which indicates that it needs cleaning. Check the nuance panel for a pocket-size, yellow or orange rectangular warning symbol with circles in the center. This symbol shows that the DPF soot has built up to a peradventure dissentious level. Always clean the DPF immediately when you lot see the warning symbol.[1]

    • The alert symbol also shows that passive regeneration didn't work. This process automatically burns off carbon soot particles. Still, it simply happens when the exhaust temperature is very warm for a long time. Passive regeneration is unlikely if you make frequent, short trips rather than long drives.

  2. ii

    Drive over 40 mph (64 kph) to begin active regeneration. Find a long, flat stretch of route or a highway where needing to wearisome downwardly or stop is unlikely. Begin driving and pay attention to both the engine and vehicle speed. Try to keep the engine speed around 2500 rpm.[2]

    • Active regeneration increases the temperature in the DPF to turn the particles into gas which can exist expelled.[three]
    • These speeds are general guidelines. Check your vehicle handbook to find the best practice for your vehicle.

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  3. 3

    Drive for approximately xv minutes until the warning symbol disappears. Continue driving at a abiding charge per unit. The warning symbol goes out when active regeneration is done.[4]

    • Agile regeneration typically takes v - 25 minutes, depending on the brand and model of your vehicle.
    • Agile regeneration needs fuel to work, so make certain that you have at least five.iii US gal (20 L) of fuel in the tank. This is effectually 1/4 full.[five]

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  1. 1

    Purchase a DPF cleaning additive to aid clear the ash and soot. This canteen of fluid is designed to intermission downwardly the ash and soot that's clogging the filter. Visit your local motor supply shop or await online to purchase a cleaning additive. These products usually cost from $13 (USD) to $26 (USD).[6]

    • DPF cleaning additives contain fuel borne catalysts. These feel a combustion process to eliminate the soot and ash.[7]
    • Use the cleaning condiment every 3 - 6 months to maintain the DPF. Cheque the vehicle handbook to see how frequently you should employ an additive for your particular vehicle.

  2. 2

    Pour the cleaning additive directly into the fuel tank. Read the label on the canteen of the cleaning additive and follow the manufacturer'due south directions carefully. Turn off your vehicle, open up the fuel tank and insert the nozzle of the cleaning condiment. Pour the required amount of the product into the tank and then replace the fuel cap and door.[8]

  3. three

    Drive your vehicle for 15 - xxx minutes to get the additive running. Begin driving your vehicle as y'all normally would. The cleaning condiment starts working regardless of the engine and vehicle speed. If the DPF alarm low-cal was on before you used the condiment, the symbol should disappear later on your drive.[nine]

    • Take your car to a mechanic to go the DPF professionally cleaned if the warning light doesn't go away.

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  1. i

    Take your vehicle to a mechanic if the DPF alarm symbol remains. Bank check if the DPF warning symbol disappeared after trying agile regeneration or a cleaning additive. If the symbol remains or if a warning lamp symbol lights up, the DPF must be professionally cleaned. Drive immediately to a mechanic earlier any damage is acquired.[10]

    • The mechanic volition clean the DPF using forced regeneration. This can be an expensive process, however, it's cheaper than replacing the DPF.[11]

  2. 2

    Use branded, high-quality fuel to help keep the DPF clean. Always use branded fuel, as it contains additives designed to go on your vehicle running smoothly. Avoid unbranded fuel, as information technology may be lower quality, which can harm the DPF.[12]

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    Keep the DPF in your vehicle at all times to avoid fines. Although it may seem easier or cheaper to simply take the DPF out of your vehicle rather than getting it cleaned, this can cause more problems. Driving without a DPF is illegal in many locations and a vehicle without one won't pass inspections. [13]

    • The only fourth dimension that a DPF can exist removed is for repair work by a qualified mechanic. Never attempt to remove the DPF to repair information technology yourself, equally this requires extensive, expert knowledge and equipment.

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  • Never attempt to remove a DPF and to start forced regeneration. This should just be done past a qualified mechanic, as it'due south easy to accidentally damage your vehicle.[fourteen]

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