If your DPF warning light is on, your car has lost power, or you’re seeing poor fuel economy, your diesel particulate filter might be blocked. Here’s what to do about it.
What Is a DPF?
Your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) sits in the exhaust system and captures soot particles from diesel combustion. It’s designed to self-clean through a process called regeneration — burning off the soot at high temperatures during longer drives.
Signs Your DPF Is Blocked
- DPF warning light on the dashboard
- Loss of power or limp mode
- Poor fuel economy
- Strong diesel smell
- Failed MOT on emissions
- Engine management light on
Why DPFs Get Blocked
Short trips and city driving are the biggest cause. If you only do short journeys, the exhaust never gets hot enough for regeneration to complete. The soot builds up until the filter is clogged.
DPF Cleaning Options
Forced regeneration: We force the engine to run a regeneration cycle. Works for partially blocked DPFs.
Off-car cleaning: We remove the DPF and professionally clean it. The most thorough method for heavily blocked filters.
DPF delete (off-road only): We can remove the DPF software for off-road/track vehicles. Not legal for road use in the UK.
How Much Does DPF Cleaning Cost?
DPF cleaning typically costs £150-£350 depending on the severity. At MapKings, we offer mobile DPF cleaning across Buckinghamshire — we come to your location.
Prevention Tips
- Take your car on a 30+ minute motorway drive at least once a week
- Don’t ignore the DPF warning light
- Use the correct engine oil (low-ash spec)
- Keep up with servicing
Book DPF Cleaning
DPF problems? Book a mobile DPF clean or call 07306 558428. We cover all of Buckinghamshire.