If you’re a driver of a diesel vehicle in Littleton CO, it has what is called a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Diesel particulate filters have been fitted on diesel vehicles for almost 20 years. While the diesel particulate filter is a quintessential component of diesel vehicles, many drivers in Littleton CO are not sure what it is or how to maintain it.
And if it’s not properly maintained by an experienced mechanic in Littleton CO or improperly tampered with, it can cause expensive complications for your vehicle. Let’s take a closer look at the diesel particulate filter.
What Is a Diesel Particulate Filter in Littleton CO?
A diesel particulate filter or DPF is a special filter designed to store and capture exhaust soot. Also called a soot trap, the DPF works to reduce emissions from diesel vehicles. It works by trapping different soot particles from the engine exhaust to prevent potentially harmful elements from reaching the environment.
What Is Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration?
For your DPF to function properly, it must continuously regenerate. During regeneration, the soot particles that have been filtered out of your exhaust gases must burn off. When this occurs, those fine clogged ports of your filter will become free to continue performing.
It’s important to understand regeneration occurs at an average exhaust gas temperature of 600 degrees Celsius. Your engine typically reaches this temperature on longer journeys at higher speeds.
However, if you only drive in city traffic or stop-and-go traffic in Littleton CO, your vehicle may not achieve the necessary temperature to perform DPF regeneration — without assistance. As such, the soot in the filter will not burn off and can result in DPF blockages.
Are the Diesel Particulate Filter and Catalytic Converter the Same?
Many people confuse the catalytic converter with the diesel particulate filter, but these two parts are different:
- The diesel particulate filter traps and retains solid particles that must be burned or oxidized through regeneration.
- The catalytic converter reduces gas-phase emissions flowing through the catalyst.
What Causes DPF Blockages in Littleton CO?
As we previously mentioned, a blocked DPF is usually caused by driving at low speeds and short journeys in Littleton CO. If you only drive in these conditions, your vehicle may never reach the necessary temperatures to self-clean or regenerate. At the same time, DPFs can falter because of poor servicing.
The overall lifespan of your DPF can range based on the application. For instance, the Cummins ISX15 diesel engine filter suggests cleaning anywhere from 400,000 to 600,000 miles. The filter will need to regenerate prior to crossing the 400,000-mile point. Other causes of DPF blockages include:
- Using poor-quality fuel
- Having certain performance modifications
- Using the wrong type of diesel oil
- Driving your diesel often on low fuel.
How Do I Know I Need Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaning in Littleton CO?
The most obvious sign that your DPF is clogged will be an orange light illuminated on your dashboard indicator. Because the light can range based on the manufacturer, it’s best to refer to your owner’s manual for specific information about DPF indicator lights. Other signs that you have a clogged DPF include:
- Increased exhaust emissions
- Increased fuel consumption
- Reduced engine performance
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to reach out to the team at Branch Automotive in Littleton CO for professional DPF cleaning solutions.
Why Should I Have My Diesel Particulate Filter Serviced?
When it comes to your DPF, an ounce of maintenance is worth pounds of cure. In other words, it’s much more cost-effective to have regular preventative maintenance than it is to replace this relatively expensive part. If you were to have to replace the filter with an OEM part, it can easily cost you up to $10,000. As such, it makes dollars and sense to have your diesel vehicle regularly serviced and maintained by the experienced diesel mechanics at Branch Automotive in Littleton CO.
Contact the Diesel Experts at Branch Automotive in Littleton CO
While diesel engines are built to last, no vehicle will last forever. You can, however, extend the life of your diesel vehicle by having regular service and maintenance in Littleton CO. At Branch Automotive, we work on virtually all domestic diesel-powered vehicles and offer affordable diesel repair services. Whether you need diesel particulate filter service, digital inspection, transmission repair, or any other diesel repair service, Branch Automotive is your one-stop shop.
Call us at (303) 771-2224, or visit our diesel repair shop at 6030 East County Line Road, Littleton, CO 80126.
