Problem job: Vauxhall Vivaro DPF issue solved thanks to expert advice

Technical trainer shares tips and advice on how best to deal with DPF problems

Problem job: Vauxhall Vivaro DPF issue solved thanks to expert advice
Technician diagnosed DPF problem and fitted a new EEC DPF only for same problem to return.

European Exhaust and Catalyst (EEC) has revealed the common mistakes technicians can make when dealing with DPF faults on the Vauxhall Vivaro, and explains what they can do to ensure of best practices.

Referencing a recent Vauxhall Vivaro DPF problem, EEC technical trainer, Stuart Still said: “It started when their customer limped into his garage with two fault codes DPF070, DPF059 and ’emissions’ illuminated on the dash.

“The technician diagnosed a DPF problem and fitted a new EEC DPF; he reset the ECU and removed the fault codes, but did not carry out a forced regeneration as directed in our fitting instructions.

“His customer collected the van and drove for about 20 miles, then all of the same fault codes returned.

“At this stage, he took the van to the Vauxhall dealership, where guess what he said?

“It’s an aftermarket DPF, they don’t work; you need to fit an OE DPF.”

“Nothing wrong with the DPF”

“At this point, I visited the garage with my distributor, and explained that there is nothing wrong with the DPF, with this van having a Renault engine what he must do is carry out an engine oil and filter change, reset the ECU, remove all fault codes and then complete a forced regeneration, followed by an ECU reset.

“It is then advisable to go for a drive for about 20 minutes at over 2500RPM; this should resolve the issue.

“It is always advisable when any DPF related fault code appears to check the engine oil for diesel contamination; this is a common problem that can occur during the DPF regeneration process.

“The issue occurs when eight times the amount of diesel is sent through the engine into the DPF, that acts like a furnace, raising the temperature to over 550 degrees, which burns off all of the particulate matter.

“A build-up of carbon on the injectors, inlet valves, exhaust valves, turbo, EGR valve and glow plugs are the major contributors to a blocked DPF.

“By using the EEC 6in1 DPF solution you can remove this problem, keeping these components free from carbon and primarily reducing the temperature at which particulate matter burns within the DPF.”

How to tackle DPF and engine management lights

EEC advise that if the DPF light comes on, the filter will need to be regenerated.

If the engine management light comes on and the glow plug light flashes, you will not be able to regenerate the DPF by driving.


• Limp home mode will engage, with a maximum of 3000 RPM
• Check pressure sensors; there could be a build-up of water
• Examine pressure pipes for damage; they must be clear or could freeze in extreme temperatures due to condensation build up
• Check that the EGR system is clean and working correctly
• Check that the vehicle has the correct spec engine oil
• Check the fuel additive Eolys / Cerine


If a DPF does not regenerate due to engine related faults or driving practices and fills to over 90 per cent or 45 grams, the DPF will need replacing.

This is not covered under warranty.

“The ECU must be reset, followed by a forced regeneration when a new DPF is fitted.

“This is to ensure that the ECU knows that the DPF and all related sensors are reset.

The DPF will not regenerate if the engine management light is on for any fault, the vehicle has a faulty EGR valve, if there is less than 20 litres of fuel in the fuel tank or if the fuel light is on.

“It is possible to carry out a forced DPF regeneration by using the correct diagnostic machine; depending on the vehicle, this operation could be static or dynamic.

“This operation could take up to 40 minutes.

Understanding faults

“EEC has an extensive range of DPF’s which is increasing day by day.

“We are committed to an education and training programme within the industry to help technicians understand, evaluate and diagnose emission problems.

“The introduction of type approval for catalytic converters has been a great leap forward and has created a more level playing field.

“We have invested heavily in our own wash coating facility in Hampshire, this is to ensure we produce top quality products for our home and export markets.”

EEC is a producer of automotive aftermarket parts for the entire independent sector.

For information regarding emissions, DPF, four gas analysis and technical training, contact European Exhaust and Catalyst via [email protected].

Find out more about the company and its products by clicking ‘more details’ below.

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