Diesel Particle Filter Problems ?

clogged_DPF_error

What is a DPF or FAP Diesel Particle Filter.

A diesel particulate filter, also know as a DPF or FAP, is a device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine. The cars exhaust DPF will gather the soot. A diesel-powered vehicle equipped with functioning filter will emit no visible smoke from its exhaust pipe.

In addition to collecting the particulate, a method must exist to clean the filter.

Some filters are single-use (disposable), while others are designed to burn off the accumulated particulate, either through the use of a catalyst (passive), or through an active technology, such as a fuel burner which heats the filter to soot combustion temperatures, through engine modifications (the engine is set to run a certain specific way when the filter load reaches a pre-determined level, either to heat the exhaust gases, or to produce high amounts of NO2, which will oxidize the particulates at relatively low temperatures), or through other methods. This is known as “filter regeneration”. Sulfur in the fuel interferes with many “regeneration” strategies, so almost all jurisdictions that are interested in the reduction of particulate emissions, are also passing regulations governing fuel sulfur levels.

Diesel particulate matter burns when temperatures reach above 600 degrees Celsius. This temperature can be reduced to somewhere in the range of 350 to 450 degrees Celsius by use of a fuel borne catalyst. The actual temperature of soot burn-out will depend on the chemistry employed.

What happens when the DPF blocks ?

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After a while the DPF will block completely, thus not giving any chance to regenerate.
At this stage a new DPF is required costing hundreds of pounds LLLLLLLLL
Your car will go into limp mode limiting the RPM to less than 3000 and will not allow you to drive very far.
Another symptom will be excessive fuel consumption and dash warning lights.

What can we do ?

bmw_particle_filter_failure

Sadly the DPF can not just be removed , because your ECU will look for the DPF and warning lights will show on your dash.
We can permanently reprogram your engine ECU to stop the ECU looking for your DPF using special and very sophisticated software.
The DPF must be removed, using a straight through pipe, or alternative method.
It is advised to leave the sensors in position.
There are many companies offering this service , Revtronic differ as we have all necessary dealer level diagnostic tools to accurately and correctly delete any shadow errors and any current or stored DTCs (Diagnostic trouble codes.)
Using official licensed software , keeping upto date with any new codes and programs that maybe needed in order to keep your car in perfect working order.
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Common vehicles suffering the DPF system failure problems

The DPF system is fitted to a wide range of diesel cars , below are some common cars suffering from the DPF problems:

Please call our office for advice or to arrange an appointment.