What the DPF does
Most modern diesels have a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the exhaust. It traps soot so it doesn't come out the tailpipe. Over time that soot builds up and has to be burned off. That burn-off is called a regeneration, or regen.
Three kinds of regen
- Passive: happens on its own when the exhaust gets hot enough, usually during steady highway driving.
- Active: the engine computer raises exhaust temperature on purpose to burn the soot off while you drive.
- Forced (or service) regen: started with a professional scan tool when the vehicle can't finish one on its own.
Why your DPF light comes on
Lots of short trips, idling and stop-and-go driving don't give the exhaust time to get hot enough. Regens get interrupted, soot keeps building, and eventually the dash warns you. A faulty sensor can also cause problems, which is why we diagnose before we regen.
When a forced regen helps
If the filter is loaded but not plugged solid, a forced regen with our XTOOL X100 PAD3 can often clear it right in your driveway — no trip to the dealer. If it's past that point, the filter may need professional cleaning or replacement, and we'll tell you straight.
A word on DPF deletes
Removing or disabling the DPF on a road vehicle is against federal emissions law. We don't do deletes — we fix the cause.
Need a hand? Northwoods comes to you anywhere in the greater Twin Ports area.