Over the years, diesel engines have become more popular. When you compare diesel engines to gas engines, diesel engines are more sustainable, fuel efficient, and can have a substantially longer lifespan. Because of this, diesel engines play an integral role in various heavy-duty applications, including construction, agriculture, and other rigorous applications.
At the same time, diesel engines are used in passenger and light-duty vehicles. Over the years, diesel engine manufacturers have continually worked to reduce the environmental impact by introducing new fuel formulas and bolstering after-treatment technology. Part of this innovation surrounds the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Let’s explore the DPF and the importance of regular preventative maintenance and repair.
DPF Is Also Called a Soot Trap
Also called a soot trap, the DPF is instrumental in diesel vehicles. Regardless of its name, the DPF is a specialized filter that captures and stores ash, exhaust soot, and other contaminants from your emissions. You can think of the DPF like an oil filter: it captures pollutants and prevents them from being expelled into the air. And like your oil filter, the DPF requires cleaning.
Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration Happens Naturally
The diesel particulate filter naturally cleans itself through a process called regeneration, which is when filtered particles are burned off. Regeneration is an important function because it helps ensure the ports in your filter are free. While soot is burned off, you may notice:
- A particular smell coming from your exhaust
- Increased fuel consumption
- Higher idling speeds
When Does DPF Soot Burn Off?
DPF regeneration requires your truck to sustain higher temperatures for an extended period, which isn’t possible if you only drive in stop-and-go traffic. Instead, DPF regeneration has to occur over longer journeys at higher speeds. If it doesn’t occur, the soot in your filter may not burn off, which can cause blockages.
Is a Blocked DPF Filter a Serious Issue?
A blocked diesel particulate filter is a serious issue and can cause severe engine damage if left unremedied. It will cause your engine to work significantly harder to vent the exhaust fumes the blocked DPF isn’t doing.
How Do I Know My DPF Filter Is Blocked?
One tell-tale sign you have a blocked diesel particulate filter is if your vehicle has an illuminated dashboard indicator. If you have a dashboard indicator illuminated, you should see a mechanic. In addition to the DPF light, your truck may display the following signs that you have a blocked DPF:
- Limp mode
- Reduced fuel economy
- Loss of power
- Poor throttle response
- Harder to start
- Failure to start
- Bad smell
How to Remove DPF Blockages in Littleton CO & Highlands Ranch CO?
If you have a diesel particulate filter blockage, the team at Branch Automotive in Littleton CO near Highlands Ranch CO can help. We offer a specialized DPF cleaning procedure that uses chemicals and advanced aqueous cleaning technology to reduce soot emissions. This crucial emissions repair service eliminates excess soot that may hinder DPF regeneration. Through DPF cleaning, the accumulated soot will gradually dissipate, allowing for natural regeneration.
However, before we perform DPF cleaning, our diesel mechanic will carefully inspect your filter to assess the extent of the problem and the level of blockage. We use a cutting-edge cleaning and drying procedure to eliminate the excess ash and soot. Our tested and proven chemicals will remove the surplus soot without causing any harm to your vehicle. Upon completion of the DPF cleaning, we conduct thorough testing to ensure the success and effectiveness of the process. Ultimately, DPF cleaning is a highly efficient method to unblock your specific diesel refilter and restore it to its optimal functioning state.
Contact Branch Automotive in Littleton CO near Highlands Ranch CO
At Branch Automotive in Littleton CO, we are your local diesel repair and maintenance specialists. Because we only hire ASE-Certified auto technicians, we are able to perform an array of diesel repair and vehicle maintenance services. In addition, we offer a GM World Class Master and an ASE World Class Tech as well as mechanics with Ford factory training. This expertise allows us to perform maintenance and auto repair on an array of diesel engines, including Cummins, Duramax, Powerstroke diesel engines, and more.
Call us today at (303) 771-2224, request your appointment online, or stop by to see us at 6030 E County Line Road in Littleton CO.
