DPF cleaning involves injecting a chemical solution into your engine to remove soot and carbon buildup. But when and why is this necessary?
Carbon deposits build up in your DPF over time and can reduce your vehicle’s power, performance, and fuel economy. If your DPF warning light is on, you notice a drop in driving quality, or see black exhaust fumes, it might be time to clean your DPF. To regenerate your DPF, these carbon deposits require cleaning with professional services or ‘burning off’. If you often make short journeys with frequent stop-start driving, your engine may not reach the temperatures required to burn off carbon deposits, making you more likely to need our mobile DPF cleaning service.
In this blog post, we’ll familiarise you with your DPF, explaining its purpose and why you might need to have it cleaned.
What is a DPF?
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a filter typically installed in a diesel vehicle’s exhaust system. It captures and stores exhaust particles or soot, helping to reduce harmful emissions and prevent carbon buildup in engines. Since 2009, DPFs have been a legal requirement on diesel vehicles to meet European emission standards. It is illegal to remove them.
You want what’s best for your car, and so do we. As such, you’ll want to understand what a DPF is, its purpose, and how often you should have it cleaned.
What is DPF cleaning?
DPF cleaning involves removing soot and carbon buildup from your engine to restore its power, performance, and fuel economy. This process typically includes running a diagnostic check, injecting a chemical solution into the engine, and running the vehicle at high RPM to clear the deposits.
How long does DPF cleaning take?
At Essex Tuning, our DPF cleaning service typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. The process includes the following steps:
- Conduct a diagnostic scan of the vehicle’s codes.
- Identify soot and carbon deposits, and measure back pressure.
- Locate the pressure sensor and check the manual gauge.
- Inject the cleaning solution into the DPF and allow it to soak for a minimum of 20 minutes.
- Recheck the pressure, add more cleaning solution, and run the vehicle at 3000 RPM to start the cleaning process.
- Repeat steps 1 through 3 to ensure the DPF is thoroughly clean.
How long can you drive with the DPF light on?
It’s crucial to address the DPF warning light as soon as it appears. Driving with the DPF light on for an extended period can cause significant damage to your engine and DPF system. Ignoring this warning can also lead to failing your MOT test, resulting in fines and legal issues.
The duration you can drive with the DPF warning light on varies depending on your vehicle’s make and model, driving conditions, and the extent of the filter clogging. Generally, it’s best to avoid driving with the DPF warning light on for more than a few miles. Prompt attention to this issue can save you from costly repairs and ensure your vehicle remains in compliance with regulations.
How to clear DPF warning light?
If your DPF warning light comes on, the first step is to attempt a DPF regeneration cycle:
- Initiate Regeneration: Drive at a consistent speed of at least 40 mph for approximately 10 minutes. This sustained speed increases the exhaust temperature, which can trigger a DPF regeneration.
- Check the Light: If the DPF light remains on after this, or if it frequently comes on, it’s essential to consult a professional mechanic. They can perform a manual or forced DPF regeneration, clean the DPF filter, or replace it if necessary.
Prompt attention to the DPF warning light can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle. For professional assistance, book an appointment at Essex Tuning today.
How often should I get my DPF cleaned?
Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) are vital for maintaining a clean engine by removing soot and ash. Over time, they can lose efficiency, leading to blockages and a negative impact on power, performance, and fuel economy.
How often you should have your DPF cleaned depends on several factors. Essex Tuning recommends you use our DPF cleaning service every six months or after driving 75,000 miles (120,000 kilometres).
However, if you often make short journeys with frequent stop-start driving, your engine won’t meet the required temperatures to burn off excess carbon deposits, meaning you may need to clean your DPF more often.
Look out for warning signs and book our service accordingly.
Warning Signs That Your DPF Needs Cleaning
If you frequently engage in short trips and stop-start driving, your engine may not reach the required temperature to burn off excess soot. Look out for warning signs such as:
- DPF warning light
- Black smoke from the exhaust
- The stop-start system not working
- Poor fuel economy
- Excessive cooling fan activity
- Reduced engine power
- Increased regeneration cycles
Benefits Of DPF Cleaning
Carbon deposits have a negative impact on your engine’s power and fuel economy. There are several benefits to DPF cleaning you should know:
- Better fuel economy and engine performance.
- Removes clogging before it gets any worse.
- Reduces black exhaust fumes and emissions
- Avoid replacement part expenses.
- Better filtration reduces the environmental impact of your vehicle.
Vehicle Brands We Offer DPF Cleaning To
We offer DPF cleaning to ALL road-legal diesel vehicles, including:
- Audi
- BMW
- Mercedes-Benz
- Range Rover
Book DPF Cleaning With Essex Tuning
Essex Tuning specialises in DPF cleaning, offering convenient mobile DPF cleaning services across Essex, Suffolk, and London. If your diesel vehicle is negatively impacted by carbon deposits in its DPF and engine, or if you’re aiming to ensure a smooth MOT pass, reach out to us. We’ll visit you at your convenience, completing the entire process within 90-120 minutes.
Restore your vehicle’s power, performance, and fuel economy with Essex Tuning’s mobile DPF cleaning service. Contact us today to elevate your driving experience.
