What is a DPF?

Cross section of a diesel particulate filter

Your diesel car could save you money on fuel consumption, but did you know that nearly all new diesel cars are fitted with an eco-friendly component which is leaving some motorists with unnecessary replacement part costs? The part in question is called a Diesel Particulate Filter or DPF.

It’s fitted to your car's exhaust to trap soot and reduce emissions. The part was introduced to bring cars in line with the ‘Euro 5’ standard on emissions. But depending on how you drive your car, you may need further assistance.

Soot and ash on diesel particulate filter

The DPF usually cleans itself when the engine runs at high speeds - a process called ‘regeneration’ that takes place automatically on a longer journey when the exhaust temperature is high. Because many cars don’t regularly get this sort of use and the majority of journeys consist of short commute to work, the school run or a trip to the shops, the regeneration process may not initiate and a warning light will illuminate to show that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is partially blocked.

The DPF must then be cleared; this can be carried out at your regular service interval with a DPF treatment to help maintain the efficient operation of both the DPF and the fuel system. If the problem is too severe, you may need to have a costly repair of the diesel particulate filter.


Help is at hand
If you have a diesel car and use it primarily for short journeys, the Good Garage Scheme's member garages can help with a special treatment for a blocked Diesel Particulate Filter that aims to combat the adverse affects of stop/start driving on diesel vehicles.

This treatment for your car will:

• Extend the life of Diesel Particulate Filter
• Minimise running costs
• Maximise fuel economy
• Maintain engine efficiency
• Reduce emissions
• Provide peace of mind

Angelo Chillari, Administrator of the Good Garage Scheme, said: “Our member garages can offer a treatment that has been developed to economically benefit the consumer, as complete replacement of the filter is costly and can also prove to be a recurring problem.”

If you are concerned about your diesel particulate filter, contact your nearest Good Garage Scheme member for further advice.