Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles
Car tutorial (Do it yourself) Motorcycle tutorial (Do it yourself) Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the Diesel Particulate Filter Work?

Model: (Various brands) Various
Part: Diesel particulate filter

This short video tutorial explains how the diesel particulate filter works: if you have a car with a diesel engine, you have likely seen the DPF light illuminated on the instrument cluster or the engine light on. The diesel particulate filter is a true filter, with the unique ability to clean itself; but what does it trap and how does it clean itself? The particulate filter traps PM10, which refers to harmful solid particles created during combustion, while allowing the flow of exhaust gases, thus reducing pollutant emissions. Engineers have developed a remarkable self-regeneration system: the differential pressure sensor monitors data upstream and downstream of the particulate filter; as the filter becomes clogged with solid particles, a certain level of back pressure builds up, and when this value reaches a certain limit, the engine control unit will command the regeneration process to start. The DPF relies on the use of additives that allow the filter to regenerate at lower temperatures compared to other particulate filters. In conclusion, to avoid issues, it is essential to follow the regeneration procedures required by the vehicle while driving; if the problem persists and the light remains illuminated, it is necessary to take the vehicle to a mechanic.

Updated on 24 August 2026 by ScegliAuto

Video tutorial

Related tutorials

How to Clean the Diesel Particulate Filter in the Engine
How to Clean the Diesel Particulate Filter in the Engine
(Various brands) Various In this short video tutorial, you can see how to clean the diesel particulate filter in car engines by following these simple steps: if your vehicle …
Overview of the engines of the Man TGX
Overview of the engines of the Man TGX
(Various brands) Various In this video, we see an overview of the engines that are mounted on MAN TGX trucks: there are three engines that cover a range of powers from 320 to…
Regener FAP by Sintoflon, additive for regenerating the FAP
Regener FAP by Sintoflon, additive for regenerating the FAP
(Various brands) Various In this video, we see a cleaning additive for the particulate filter, the "RegenerFap" by Sintoflon: a cleaning additive designed to clean the partic…

Other guides you may be interested in

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Vari - Urea warning light on after when to refuel? Read answer

How to Check the Oil Level on a Jeep Renegade?

To check the oil level on a Jeep Renegade, you need to open the bonnet to access the components inside the engine bay: on the lower left side of the engine block, you will find the dipstick for checking the level. This should be pulled out and thoroughly cleaned with a cloth: once cleaned, reinsert it back into its tube and pull it out immediately after. This way, you can check that the oil mark is between the minimum and maximum levels; finally, you can place the dipstick back in its tube.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos