Since your DPF filter’s primary function is to direct exhaust fumes away from the vehicle’s engine, its clogging will slow the rate at which these fumes are expelled from the engine. This prevents the engine from operating at its maximum capacity, which will invariably decrease the efficiency with which it uses fuel. Not only will you have to spend more money on petrol, but the accumulation of fumes in your engine can cause significant harm and increase the likelihood of it breaking down.

DPF Removal

Because of the engine’s inability to function at its optimal efficiency level, it cannot produce the same level of power as it would under normal circumstances. The accumulation of exhaust suffocates the engine, which in turn makes the sensation of driving a lesser overall experience for the driver. Because of this, the driver will press harder on the accelerator, resulting in faster fuel consumption and adding to the engine’s suffocation. In addition, the fumes will have a smell, which is another indicator that the DPF filter in your car has been clogged.

The Engine Will Not Start Up

If the engine management unit of your car senses an excessive buildup of soot, the engine may refuse to start. This is done for the protection of the engine, as the igniting process combined with the exhaust gases has the potential to do significant damage. Even if the engine not starting is a major nuisance, it is preferable to having the engine undergo damage that could be fatal.

DPF Regeneration 

Many diesel car drivers do not drive in a manner that permits passive DPF regeneration; consequently, many manufacturers have devised an active regeneration procedure to fight this issue. This happens when the DPF filter has accumulated a specific amount of soot. At this point, the ECU will send a fuel injection into the engine to raise the temperature. If the active regeneration process happens during a short drive, but the engine is turned off before it can be finished, the DPF warning light will illuminate to let you know that the filter is partially clogged with debris.

The question now is, how can you tell if your vehicle’s engine is actively regenerating its DPF? One warning indication to look out for is if the cooling fans on your car operate at a higher capacity than is typical or if the tone of your engine’s sound shifts. When the soot in your engine is being burned away, you may notice that it emits a stench that is both intense and pungent at specific periods. It is also possible that your stop/start function will stop working. If you drive for fifteen minutes at speeds greater than forty miles per hour, the DPF filter in your car should be exposed to enough heat to remove the soot on its own.

If you overlook the apparent indicators that a DPF regeneration is occurring, your filter will become clogged, which will need to be serviced by a professional.