Keep your DPF healthy: What every driver needs to know

EEC explain just why DPFs are so important and how to look after them

Keep your DPF healthy: What every driver needs to know

Your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) plays a critical role in reducing harmful emissions from your vehicle. But without the right care, it can quickly become a costly problem. If you want to avoid breakdowns, expensive repairs, and potential MOT failures, here’s what you need to know about looking after your DPF.

Stick to Regular Servicing Routine maintenance is the first line of defence. Using the correct manufacturer-recommended engine oil is essential—not just for overall engine health, but also for preventing ash build-up that can clog your DPF. Replacing fuel and air filters at regular intervals is equally important, helping to maintain the right combustion conditions needed for effective DPF regeneration.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Lights Seeing the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) or engine management light pop up on your dash? Don’t delay. Driving more than 100 miles with the warning light on can lead to a severely blocked DPF—often turning a minor issue into a major repair job.

Beware of Low Mileage and Stop-Start Driving If your driving habits mostly involve short trips or urban stop-start traffic, you’re at higher risk of DPF problems. These conditions often don’t allow the DPF to reach the temperatures required for regeneration—the self-cleaning process that burns off soot. To combat this, it’s recommended to take your vehicle on a longer drive at least once a month. Aim for 20 minutes or more at sustained speeds, ideally keeping the revs above 2,500 RPM. Selecting a lower gear on a dual carriageway or motorway can help reach the necessary temperature threshold for regeneration.

Fuel Additives Can Help Using a high-quality diesel additive, such as EEC’s 6-in-1 treatment, can make a big difference. These additives reduce carbon build-up not only in the DPF, but also in other critical components like the EGR valve, injectors, and glow plugs—all of which play a role in DPF regeneration. Additionally, they lower the carbon burn-off temperature by up to 100°C, making it easier for regeneration to occur under everyday driving conditions.

Final Thought Caring for your DPF doesn’t need to be complicated—but it does require a bit of attention. With regular maintenance, the right driving habits, and some smart additives, you can keep your emissions in check and your DPF in good health.

Let your car breathe easier—and save yourself a headache in the process.

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