What is a DPF Filter?

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is an emissions device fitted to the vehicles exhaust system to prevent harmful exhaust gas particulate matter entering the air we breathe. Manufacturers have been fitting DPF’s to vehicles in Australia since 2006. As of 2016 all diesel vehicles sold in Australia are required to have a DPF fitted.

Over time the DPF accumulates particulate or soot and will start to clog up. Most vehicles will actively or passively commence a regeneration to burn up the particulate into gas, allowing it to pass through the Filter and out the exhaust tail pipe. Some vehicles require long drives at high speed in order to create enough heat to regenerate the filter, and often this can’t be achieved in urban environments.

Sensors are utilised by the engines computer to monitor the DPF soot level and temperatures during regeneration. If a sensor fails or is giving false readings the vehicle will not be able to complete an effective regeneration, this highlights the importance of diagnosis before having your filter cleaned.