Since 2011, all diesel cars must have the diesel particulate filter, or DPF for short, as an emission control technology.
But do you actually know how to make sure the DPF filter cleaner in the vehicle is working properly?
This piece contains suggestions for preventing the dashboard warning “Diesel Particulate Filter to be cleaned” from appearing as soon as feasible.
1. Remove The DPF
An anti-pollution tool called a diesel particulate filter burns carbon monoxide & unburned hydrocarbons while trapping particles. DPF regeneration cycles happen frequently for this reason. The particles are subsequently burned off by injecting extra gasoline into the filter. Therefore destroying them. These cycles, nevertheless, are only conceivable when the vehicle’s engine is extremely hot. As we observed in the last article, it is therefore highly advised to undertake as many trips as you can (at least one per week) that last longer than 20 minutes while revving the engine at speeds higher than 3,000 rpm. A cycle of regeneration is going to arise from this. The particles will ignite, reducing the possibility of a DPF blockage.
2. Select A Booster.
A lot of people have bought diesel cars for mostly urban use. The likelihood of clogging the diesel particle filter in the medium term is relatively high. Consequently, a supplement made to boost the frequency of regeneration cycles is an option.
3. Select The Appropriate Engine Oil.
Every automaker recommends using a certain brand of motor oil to its clients. The motor oil is in the diesel particulate filter for diesel vehicles that have one (all models made after 2011 and occasionally even earlier). Some oils may accumulate metal fragments which might cause a blockage. It is advised to continue using the original motor oil part number. It had been specifically picked out for its qualities. It is the assurance that the mechanics will be preserved.
4. Play The Card Of Prevention.
Owing to the numerous parts intended to reduce emissions, diesel vehicles are very brittle. The whole car may malfunction if one of them fails. As a result, we suggest you to regularly check the anti-pollution system on your diesel vehicle. EGR valve, diesel particulate filter, and catalytic converter continue to be the three systems most prone to malfunction, typically due to a lack of regeneration cycles. Likewise to when you detect more opaque smoke coming from the back of the vehicle, it is best to consult a specialist. That could in fact be among the initial indications of a breakdown. Waiting till it is too late never works!
5. Be Meticulous With Upkeep
It is advised that you get your diesel automobile serviced once or twice a year even if you don’t drive very much. If required, a mechanic is going to able to start a forced DPF regeneration cycle. Additionally, they are going to able to check that the various emission control mechanisms are operating correctly. The diesel particulate filter will last longer as a result of this. You can drive more calmly by routinely monitoring the flow metre, the amount of oil in the turbo, the injectors, DPF and EGR valve. Breakdown risk is going to be decreased as a result.
6. Be Mindful Of The Mechanics.
Not all rumours are worthwhile to believe. There’s no need to keep your car’s engine warm. Even better, take it easy during the first few kilometres to let it warm up. In contrast, warm-up time is essential. The turbo in the vehicle routinely spins at more than 100,000 rpm. The turbo can accelerate from 100,000 rpm to zero in one second if you immediately stop your automobile at your location. In the medium term, this is harmful. The same is true with pollution-reducing technology. The ideal amount of time for the motor to operate before turning it off is roughly 20 seconds.
8. Watch Out For Phoney Assurances
Seemingly miraculous items which claim to extend the lifespan of the diesel particulate filter are available on the market. Descaling promises to do the same thing, removing the possibility of blocked turbo, valves, DPF, and significant smoke. In actuality, a quick descaling while driving suffices. Consult a specialist for guidance if you’re unsure.
9. Breathe!
Due to the delicate nature of the diesel particulate filter, many have found a vein for exploiting alarmist rhetoric to market their goods. The DPF should theoretically last the lifespan of the vehicle. In actuality, failure might occur within as little as 80,000 kilometres due to urban use. It isn’t unusual to observe particle filters which have travelled more than 300,000 kilometres for conventional, combined, or highway use. There isn’t any need to be concerned as long as regeneration cycles are performed consistently and your vehicle remains operational.
Final Words
Maintaining the vehicle ought to avoid breakdowns and increase the DPF filter’s lifespan. It’s important to keep in mind that the exhaust system’s numerous interconnected parts and attachments. Repairing the flaw in one element as quickly as possible will put an end to the other elements’ rapid deterioration.
