How to Clean the Diesel Particulate Filter of an Opel Vivaro

You can tell that the DPF of your Opel Vivaro is clogged due to the engine warning light being on, loss of power, and excessive diesel consumption; additionally, there will be many frequent and interrupted regenerations. The best method would be to regenerate it using OBD2, connecting it to the port under the steering wheel, starting the engine until it reaches temperature, and activating the "DPF Regeneration" function for 15 to 30 minutes at 2,500 RPM. If the DPF is moderately clogged, a chemical cleaning with specific products like LiquiMoly Prolife DPF Cleaner should be added to the fuel: drive 12 to 18 miles at 2,500 to 3,000 RPM to promote the combustion of the ash. If the DPF is severely blocked, a manual cleaning with the JLM DPF Cleaner kit is necessary, which can be found on eBay with code 177259610743 for £52.83, with free delivery; you will also need a low-pressure pump and demineralised water.

You must remove the DPF by disconnecting the pressure sensors and removing the pipes and fixing screws. Spray the cleaner into the DPF and let it sit for an hour, then rinse with demineralised water until clear liquid comes out. Remove the residual water with an air compressor and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.

As a preventive measure, you should drive at least 12 to 18 miles on the motorway at 2,500 RPM twice a month; use quality fuels and monitor the DPF blockage with an OBD2 tool.