How to Clean a Diesel Particulate Filter

In this video, learn how to clean a diesel particulate filter: this device is present in diesel engines from Euro 4 onwards and functions to filter polluting particles (PM10, PM2.5) from the exhaust, preventing them from entering the air. It is located after the exhaust manifold.

It becomes clogged mainly due to urban driving, short trips with a cold engine, low-quality fuel, and lack of regenerations, meaning when the filter does not reach the temperature sufficient to burn the particles.

Symptoms of a clogged DPF include the DPF warning light being on or flashing (when present on the vehicle); a loss of engine power and an increase in fuel consumption. To regenerate the DPF, regeneration starts automatically if you drive for 20 to 30 minutes at 2,000 to 3,000 RPM (for example, on the motorway).

If the DPF light is on, do not turn off the engine. For manual regeneration, the fuel tank must be at least 30%, and you should drive at a constant speed, as mentioned earlier.

Preventive maintenance can be done with DPF additives, such as Tunap 184, which can be found on eBay for £17.99 with free delivery, helping to clean the filter and lower the regeneration temperature. It should be used every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.

For severe clogging, a professional cleaning kit from Arexons is recommended, which can also be found on eBay with code 122031661029 for £75.99 with free delivery. If regeneration fails after all these treatments, it may be necessary to replace the filter.