How to Clean a DPF

Download Article

Co-authored by Ed Beery

Last Updated: November 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Download Article

Using Active Regeneration

|

Using Cleaning Additives

|

Maintaining a DPF

|

Warnings

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

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using Active Regeneration

Download Article

1
Watch for the DPF symbol, which indicates that it needs cleaning. Check the dash panel for a small, yellow or orange rectangular warning symbol with circles in the center. This symbol shows that the DPF soot has built up to a possibly damaging level. Always clean the DPF immediately when you see the warning symbol.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- The warning symbol also shows that passive regeneration didn't work. This process automatically burns off carbon soot particles. However, it only 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
Drive over 40 mph (64 kph) to begin active regeneration. Find a long, flat stretch of road or a highway where needing to slow down or stop is unlikely.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Ed Beery
Automotive Specialist

Expert Interview} Begin driving and pay attention to both the engine and vehicle speed. Try to keep the engine speed around 2500 rpm.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Active regeneration increases the temperature in the DPF to turn the particles into gas which can be expelled.^{[4]
  X
  Research source}
- These speeds are general guidelines. Check your vehicle handbook to find the best practice for your vehicle.
Advertisement
3
Drive for approximately 15 minutes until the warning symbol disappears. Continue driving at a constant rate. The warning symbol goes out when active regeneration is done.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Active regeneration typically takes 5 - 25 minutes, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
- Active regeneration needs fuel to work, so make sure that you have at least 5.3 US gal (20 L) of fuel in the tank. This is around 1/4 full.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using Cleaning Additives

Download Article

1
Purchase a DPF cleaning additive to help clear the ash and soot.^{[6]
X
Expert Source

Ed Beery
Automotive Specialist

Expert Interview} This bottle of fluid is designed to break down the ash and soot that's clogging the filter. Visit your local motor supply store or look online to purchase a cleaning additive. These products usually cost from $13 (USD) to $26 (USD).^{[7]
X
Research source}
- DPF cleaning additives contain fuel borne catalysts. These experience a combustion process to eliminate the soot and ash.
- Use the cleaning additive every 3 - 6 months to maintain the DPF. Check the vehicle handbook to see how often you should use an additive for your particular vehicle.
Read the label on the bottle of the cleaning additive and follow the manufacturer's directions carefully. Turn off your vehicle, open the fuel tank and insert the nozzle of the cleaning additive. Pour the required amount of the product into the tank and then replace the fuel cap and door.^{[8]
X
Research source}
3
Drive your vehicle for 15 - 30 minutes to get the additive running. Begin driving your vehicle as you normally would. The cleaning additive starts working regardless of the engine and vehicle speed. If the DPF warning light was on before you used the additive, the symbol should disappear after your drive.^{[9]
X
Research source}
- Take your car to a mechanic to get the DPF professionally cleaned if the warning light doesn't go away, as the filter will need to be removed for cleaning.^{[10]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ed Beery
  Automotive Specialist
  
  Expert Interview}

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Maintaining a DPF

Download Article

1
Take your vehicle to a mechanic if the DPF warning symbol remains. Check if the DPF warning symbol disappeared after trying active 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 before any damage is caused.^{[11]
X
Research source}
- The mechanic will clean the DPF using forced regeneration. This can be an expensive procedure, however, it's cheaper than replacing the DPF.
Always use branded fuel, as it contains additives designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Avoid unbranded fuel, as it may be lower quality, which can harm the DPF.^{[12]
X
Research source}
3
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]
X
Research source}
- The only time that a DPF can be removed is for repair work by a qualified mechanic. Never attempt to remove the DPF to repair it yourself, as this requires extensive, expert knowledge and equipment.^{[14]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ed Beery
  Automotive Specialist
  
  Expert Interview}

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Submit a Tip

All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published

Name

Please provide your name and last initial

Submit

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Warnings

Never attempt to remove a DPF and to start forced regeneration. This should only be done by a qualified mechanic, as it's easy to accidentally damage your vehicle.^{[15]
X
Research source}

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0