Diesel Particulate Filter Maintenance

**sparc179** · May 28th, 2019 07:54 AM

There doesn't seem to be a thread dedicated to this subject so maybe we should start one now that all new diesel vehicles sold nowadays here in Da Pilipins have this component as part of the exhaust systems.

We all know what it does and how expensive it can be to replace a DPF, but what about proper maintenance to avoid all the hassles and expense if one is clogged up and needing replacement?

The common rule is to drive your diesel vehicle for at least 1 hour at 90 to 100 KpH minimum at least once every 2 weeks to create 'regeneration' conditions that will allow the DPF to burn all of that nasty residue from the un-burned diesel.

Here is my question though, what if you only use your car once or twice a week around the city and nearby areas for short periods of time only, do you still need to do a regeneration run every 2 weeks or will once a month be sufficient?

Your expert opinions are most appreciated.

**travajante** · May 28th, 2019 08:21 AM

DPF equipped diesels aren't the ideal choice if one's route is short & slow. They are a known migraine source. Once they're clogged & the DPF light pops, even active regeneration will be helpless. Removal, cleaning or replacement are required...The procedure is tedious & costly. In Europe & Oz, many have resorted to DPF-Delete+ECU tweak til inspection time.
DPF is advertised for the environment. A good guise for its other purpose..... dealership dependence. Be warned. Go petrol.[emoji4]

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**travajante** · May 28th, 2019 08:27 AM

The Truth About Diesel Particulate Filter Problems (DPF Problems) | Auto Expert John Cadogan - YouTube

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**sparc179** · May 28th, 2019 08:30 AM

Originally Posted by travajante

The Truth About Diesel Particulate Filter Problems (DPF Problems) | Auto Expert John Cadogan - YouTube

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I saw that video and another one from the Ozzie Guru. He does explain how a DPF warning light isn't always the end of the world for the filter.

**sparc179** · May 28th, 2019 08:32 AM

Originally Posted by travajante

DPF equipped diesels aren't the ideal choice if one's route is short & slow. They are a known migraine source. Once they're clogged & the DPF light pops, even active regeneration will be helpless. Removal, cleaning or replacement are required...The procedure is tedious & costly. In Europe & Oz, many have resorted to DPF-Delete+ECU tweak til inspection time.
DPF is advertised for the environment. A good guise for its other purpose..... dealership dependence. Be warned. Go petrol.[emoji4]

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Thanks for the honest opinion Master Trav, dealership maintenance is something we all dread and try to avoid as much as possible of course. But surely with proper maintenance that dependence can be lessened?

**travajante** · May 28th, 2019 08:49 AM

Originally Posted by sparc179

Thanks for the honest opinion Master Trav, dealership maintenance is something we all dread and try to avoid as much as possible of course. But surely with proper maintenance that dependence can be lessened?

I'll hold out & stay away from ticking time bombs. Thank you, sir![emoji4]
Oh, they require low soot Full Synthetic DPF-Compatible ACEA C3 or higher oils, too.

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**sparc179** · May 28th, 2019 08:56 AM

Originally Posted by travajante

I'll hold out & stay away from ticking time bombs. Thank you, sir![emoji4]
Oh, they require low soot Full Synthetic DPF-Compatible ACEA C3 or higher oils, too.

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Hehe, not many of us have the luxury of choice sir.

Thanks again for the additional suggestment. Drive safe!

**Egan101** · May 28th, 2019 09:08 AM

Just bring the car to an expressway and give it a spirited run every two weeks or so. Take the Skyway and let it run up to what your nerves can manage.

**sparc179** · May 28th, 2019 09:12 AM

Originally Posted by Egan101

Just bring the car to an expressway and give it a spirited run every two weeks or so. Take the Skyway and let it run up to what your nerves can manage.

Hehehe, my choice would be the NLEX from San Fernando all the way to Urdaneta and lunch at Dagupenas. I still love the boneless bangus steaks there and the binagoongang crispy pata which is to die for, literally

So it's every 2 weeks still. I guess that gives me an excuse to go out of town more often, hehehe.

Thanks for the advice Master E.

**Egan101** · May 28th, 2019 09:23 AM

Originally Posted by sparc179

Hehehe, my choice would be the NLEX from San Fernando all the way to Urdaneta and lunch at Dagupenas. I still love the boneless bangus steaks there and the binagoongang crispy pata which is to die for, literally

So it's every 2 weeks still. I guess that gives me an excuse to go out of town more often, hehehe.

Thanks for the advice Master E.

If you want to test how fast your ride can go, I suggest you take SCTEX to Subic route. The Clark-South to Floridablanca section is pretty much a no restriction zone. TPLEX is another option. Just watch out for a parked Innova or Ranger or Hilux but you will be able to see them far enough for you to slow down.