Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about DPF cleaning and and routine maintenance services? We've covered some of the most common questions our clients ask us. Call us today if you need help with your vehicle, whether for a routine maintenance or DPF cleaning service.
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What is a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)?
A diesel particulate filter (DPF) is a filter that is designed to collect the soot that is created when diesel is burned, preventing harmful particles from being pumped out into the atmosphere.
Diesel particulates are from the incomplete combustion of diesel fuel, which produces soot particles. Soot and other particles from diesel engines worsen the particulate matter pollution in the air and are harmful to health.
Although particulate filters are very effective in dramatically reducing the amount of particulates emitted from diesel vehicles, most filters need to burn the trapped particulates off fairly regularly, known as regeneration.
A DPF can hold a certain amount of soot, but not a huge quantity, so it needs to regularly go through a process of regeneration in order to clear out the soot and allow the vehicle to operate correctly. Regeneration occurs when the filter reaches a sufficiently high temperature, allowing the soot to be converted to a much smaller amount of ash.
Diesel particulates are from the incomplete combustion of diesel fuel, which produces soot particles. Soot and other particles from diesel engines worsen the particulate matter pollution in the air and are harmful to health.
Although particulate filters are very effective in dramatically reducing the amount of particulates emitted from diesel vehicles, most filters need to burn the trapped particulates off fairly regularly, known as regeneration.
A DPF can hold a certain amount of soot, but not a huge quantity, so it needs to regularly go through a process of regeneration in order to clear out the soot and allow the vehicle to operate correctly. Regeneration occurs when the filter reaches a sufficiently high temperature, allowing the soot to be converted to a much smaller amount of ash.
Why does the DPF need to regenerate?
To allow the DPF to automatically regenerate, the engine should be used regularly at a sufficient speed, to ensure a high enough temperature of the exhaust gas is reached. Although it may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, typically a vehicle must be driven at 50mph or above for at least 20 minutes in order to automatically regenerate the filter. During the regeneration phase, high temperatures in the filter may cause a slight smell, especially during the first regeneration.
Stop/start short journeys at low speeds are the main cause of blocked diesel particulate filters. If a car spends most of its time being driven around town on short start-stop journeys, the exhaust doesn’t get up to temperature so the soot doesn’t get burnt off and the DPF does not ‘regenerate’ on its own.
Other most common reasons for DPF failures include a clogged EGR Valve causing excess soot, faulty fuel injectors sending too much fuel to the air/fuel mixture, wrong type of engine oil, high mileage car will find regeneration harder, low fuel level – generally less than a quarter of a tank – will prevent regeneration taking place.
DPFs are designed to last in excess of 100,000 miles but if the drivers fail to operate the vehicle correctly, it will fail a lot earlier.
Stop/start short journeys at low speeds are the main cause of blocked diesel particulate filters. If a car spends most of its time being driven around town on short start-stop journeys, the exhaust doesn’t get up to temperature so the soot doesn’t get burnt off and the DPF does not ‘regenerate’ on its own.
Other most common reasons for DPF failures include a clogged EGR Valve causing excess soot, faulty fuel injectors sending too much fuel to the air/fuel mixture, wrong type of engine oil, high mileage car will find regeneration harder, low fuel level – generally less than a quarter of a tank – will prevent regeneration taking place.
DPFs are designed to last in excess of 100,000 miles but if the drivers fail to operate the vehicle correctly, it will fail a lot earlier.
What is the cost of replacing a blocked DPF?
Diesel particulate filters are very expensive. A new one from a car manufacturer can cost £1,000 and £3,500, plus any diagnostic or labour charges, There are now other suppliers of diesel particulate filters that charge less, but be careful as they must still have the correct Type Approval or they may not work correctly and end up costing you more in repairs leaving you again with high repair bills.
Why will a vehicle start using fuel more often than usual?
- Engine Lubrication: Engine oil lubricates various moving parts within the engine, reducing friction and preventing wear. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its effectiveness, leading to increased friction. This can result in higher fuel consumption as the engine works harder to overcome increased resistance.
- Cleanliness of Engine Components: Oil helps in carrying away dirt, debris, and contaminants from the engine. As oil ages, it can become contaminated and less effective in cleaning the engine components. Dirty engine parts can lead to reduced efficiency and increased fuel consumption.
- Engine Efficiency: An engine with clean oil operates more efficiently. Regular oil changes help maintain optimal engine efficiency, ensuring that the combustion process occurs smoothly. Inefficient combustion can lead to increased fuel consumption.
- Temperature Regulation: Engine oil also helps regulate the temperature of the engine by dissipating heat. Over time, oil can break down, and its ability to dissipate heat diminishes. An engine running at higher temperatures may be less efficient, potentially resulting in higher fuel consumption.
- Reduced Friction: New, high-quality oil helps minimize friction between engine components. Reduced friction contributes to better fuel efficiency. As oil ages and loses its lubricating properties, friction can increase, leading to a decrease in fuel efficiency.
Why does a vehicle need an oil change?
Regular oil changes play a crucial role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency in cars. Engine oil serves as a lubricant for moving parts, preventing friction and wear. Over time, however, oil breaks down, leading to increased friction and reduced engine efficiency. Timely oil changes help ensure proper engine lubrication, preventing excess friction that can contribute to higher fuel consumption.
In addition, clean oil is essential for carrying away dirt and contaminants from the engine, promoting overall cleanliness and preventing issues that could impact fuel efficiency. A well-lubricated and clean engine operates more efficiently, supporting a smoother combustion process and minimising fuel consumption.
Furthermore, engine oil contributes to temperature regulation by dissipating heat. Ageing oil may lose its ability to effectively manage engine temperature, potentially leading to decreased efficiency and increased fuel consumption.
To optimise fuel efficiency and overall engine performance, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals and use the specified type and grade of oil. This proactive approach to maintenance ensures that the engine operates at its best, promoting fuel efficiency and extending the lifespan of the vehicle.
In addition, clean oil is essential for carrying away dirt and contaminants from the engine, promoting overall cleanliness and preventing issues that could impact fuel efficiency. A well-lubricated and clean engine operates more efficiently, supporting a smoother combustion process and minimising fuel consumption.
Furthermore, engine oil contributes to temperature regulation by dissipating heat. Ageing oil may lose its ability to effectively manage engine temperature, potentially leading to decreased efficiency and increased fuel consumption.
To optimise fuel efficiency and overall engine performance, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals and use the specified type and grade of oil. This proactive approach to maintenance ensures that the engine operates at its best, promoting fuel efficiency and extending the lifespan of the vehicle.
Why does a vehicle require maintenance?
Routine maintenance is a critical aspect of ensuring the longevity, performance, and safety of your vehicle. Regular maintenance activities, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, contribute to the overall health of your car or truck.
Search engines prioritise content that provides valuable information, and routine vehicle maintenance offers several benefits. First and foremost, it helps prevent potential issues before they become costly problems. By adhering to scheduled maintenance, you can identify and address minor issues early on, avoiding major breakdowns that may impact your vehicle's reliability.
Moreover, routine maintenance supports optimal fuel efficiency. Well-maintained engines, properly inflated tires, and efficient braking systems all contribute to better gas mileage. This is a key consideration for individuals searching for ways to save on fuel costs and reduce their environmental footprint.
Additionally, incorporating routine maintenance into your vehicle care routine can enhance safety. Regular brake checks, fluid inspections, and tire maintenance contribute to a safer driving experience, reducing the risk of accidents and breakdowns on the road.
In the competitive online landscape, creating content that resonates with users is crucial. Addressing the importance of routine maintenance in terms of cost savings, fuel efficiency, and safety not only satisfies search engine algorithms but also provides valuable information for individuals seeking reliable and comprehensive automotive advice.
Search engines prioritise content that provides valuable information, and routine vehicle maintenance offers several benefits. First and foremost, it helps prevent potential issues before they become costly problems. By adhering to scheduled maintenance, you can identify and address minor issues early on, avoiding major breakdowns that may impact your vehicle's reliability.
Moreover, routine maintenance supports optimal fuel efficiency. Well-maintained engines, properly inflated tires, and efficient braking systems all contribute to better gas mileage. This is a key consideration for individuals searching for ways to save on fuel costs and reduce their environmental footprint.
Additionally, incorporating routine maintenance into your vehicle care routine can enhance safety. Regular brake checks, fluid inspections, and tire maintenance contribute to a safer driving experience, reducing the risk of accidents and breakdowns on the road.
In the competitive online landscape, creating content that resonates with users is crucial. Addressing the importance of routine maintenance in terms of cost savings, fuel efficiency, and safety not only satisfies search engine algorithms but also provides valuable information for individuals seeking reliable and comprehensive automotive advice.
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