What is DPF? Why does the DPF light (Diesel Particulate filter) come on? How do I turn the DPF light off? What is the Diesel Particulate Filter warning and malfunction ?
The diesel particulate filter (also known as DPF) is used to remove harmful particles in the exhaust gas from diesel engines. It’s available on some Euro 4 vehicles, as well as all Euro 5 or Euro 6 vehicles. Since 2009, diesel vehicles have had it fitted to reduce soot from their exhaust systems. These institutions are dangerous to the environment and human health, and can lead to respiratory problems.
The DPF indicator will alert you that there are problems with your car’s diesel particulate filter.
These filters will help reduce soot buildup in your vehicle’s exhaust. However, if it becomes blocked, the DPF warning light on your dashboard may come on.
What causes the DPF light to turn on?
The engine control unit of the car switches to “Passive Regeneration”, when soot accumulates above a certain level. The engine is heated up by more fuel. It turns the soot into fine ash, and then removes it from exhaust.
This is usually when you are cruising at high speed, because the exhaust system requires high temperatures. Your vehicle won’t be able perform the reconditioning process if you make small, local trips and don’t accelerate too fast. As a result, the diesel particulate filter light is illuminated.
What should you do if the DPF light is on?
When the DPF light comes on, it tells you that the “Passive Regeneration” process has failed and you need to actively renew the diesel particulate filter.
For this example, drive 70 km in at least 10-15 minutes. Your vehicle should be driven at a higher speed. This is essential for cleaning the filter and burning solid particles from the exhaust.
You may experience unusual engine noises, an odor coming from the exhaust and higher fuel consumption during regeneration. This should all return to normal once the active regeneration process has completed. The DPF light must be turned off.
It takes 70km to complete the regeneration process. You can only provide 70 km to complete the regeneration process. Soot from your filter will continue to build-up and your DPF warning light may remain on until it is resolved.
Can I ignore the DPF Lights and Drive on?
Technically, it is possible but we wouldn’t advise it. Continue driving despite the DPF lights. The congestion will grow and the system may not clear itself. After a while, your vehicle will go into “limp home” mode and the check engine light will turn on. This is where outside intervention is necessary. DPF should be cleaned using special chemicals. It must be replaced with a fresh one if the blockage becomes too severe or the filter becomes damaged. It could cost thousands of lire depending on the vehicle and type of damage. It is important to never ignore the DPF warning light.
It is better to choose a car that best suits your needs. A diesel engine with a particulate filter works well if you’re traveling long distances. You can decrease the chances of having problems with your DPF by regularly reaching the required speeds to perform active and passive regenerations.
A diesel engine may not be right for you if you only make short trips. A gasoline engine may be better suited for you if your car is used only to get to the shops and to commute to school. DPF is a common problem with diesel engines. It’s rarely cleaned. This is why the DPF light comes on so often.
