New MOT Test rules for the DPF

Clogged diesel particulate filter

Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) have been in the news quite a bit this year. DPFs were fitted to diesel cars to meet European emissions standards, but they need high temperatures to regenerate and remain effective. Motorists who use their cars primarily for local runs with lots of stop-start driving and low mileage may find themselves with a blocked DPF as a result.

Vehicles suffering with blocked DPFs have become a common fault, the first indication of which will be the engine management light coming on, or a lack of power. If the warning light is ignored, it could be a costly repair. Rather than deal with the repair bill, some people have chosen to completely remove the DPF, but this could prove costly. From February 2014 the MOT test will include a check for the presence of a diesel particulate filter.

This new government legislation means it is vital that garages look after DPFs for their customers. Vehicles will automatically fail the MOT test if a diesel particulate filter that was fitted when manufactured has been removed.

Your local Good Garage Scheme member garage will be able to advise you of a treatment specifically designed to help your diesel particulate filter operate as it should.

For more information contact your local Good Garage Scheme member via www.GoodGarageScheme.com.

It's like having a friend in the know.

For more information about the government's new legislation, click here.