Replacing a DPF can easily cost $4000 to $8000, and sometimes more, it's a big cost… particularly when a vehicle is out of warranty!
The cost of a DPF (diesel particulate filter) filter can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. On average, the cost of a DPF filter replacement can range from $2,000 to $4,000, with some luxury and heavy-duty models costing even more.
What does a DPF replacement cost in Australia? The costs of DPF replacement vary because there are options for cleaning and re-installation and swapping a blocked filter for a full replacement. The standard prices for filters usually begin at that $1000 mark, though some go much higher.
The inner components of a DPF are expensive to manufacture as the soot / particulate they filter are so small. The matrix which catches the pollutants is also made from exotic materials such as porous ceramics and silicon carbide.
Yes, you can drive your car with DPF lights on but generally, it is recommended not to. When you ignore the DPF lights and continue driving, there is a build-up of soot that can prevent any damage to the engine. 2.
Some garages can clean blocked DPFs, in a process called forced regeneration. This usually costs around £100 and, while it's not a 100% guaranteed fix, it's usually successful in removing the excess soot and allowing the DPF to work and automatically regenerate again.
The easiest and cheapest method of DPF filter cleaning is by driving the vehicle for a long-distance at high revs per minute. Doing this increases the heat of the exhaust and burns the soot blocking the DPF filter. It's best to drive on a motorway or A road where you can keep the vehicle at a consistent speed.
A DPF can last up to around 100,000 miles if maintained properly. After the car has exceeded that mileage, you could be looking at paying a large amount of money for a replacement - so always properly check MoT and service records when buying a used car.
In these cases, the most common solution adopted by mechanics is to replace the DPF. Still, the diesel particulate filter should be replaced only if it is damaged, while in the event of a blockage, cleaning with specific and certified products is enough.
If you want to keep the cost of replacement down then you can purchase a new Diesel Particulate Filter online or at a garage and install it yourself at home to save on fitting costs. This is a step by step guide on how to replace your DPF should you need to.
Is it illegal to remove a diesel particulate filter? Yes, it is illegal. Owners face fines if caught and removing a DPF can also invalidate your car insurance policy.
If you notice a reduction in the car's power, acceleration, or fuel efficiency, then it is likely time to get your DPF checked. If your car is emitting more smoke than usual, it could be a sign that the DPF is clogged and needs replacement. A blocked DPF can also cause a foul odour to emanate from the car's exhaust.
Many mechanics advise having your DPF cleaned every 6-9 months to keep it operating at optimal levels, though you may need to clean it more or less frequently depending on your driving habits.
Aside from increasing your risk of being charged with motoring law violations, removing your DPF and EGR can improve your car's power, performance, and fuel efficiency.
DPF BENEFITS
Better fuel economy: Fuel economy is a big winner after deleting the DPF. Not only will a vehicle conserve the fuel that is utilized by the filter for regenerative purposes, but a cleaner running engine is also an engine that runs more efficiently.
For on-highway vehicles, the DPF should be pulled off for its first cleaning after 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and then every 100,000 miles after that for preventive maintenance cleaning, Anderson notes.
If the soot trapped by a DPF is not removed regularly, the filter can't work properly. This results in a vast build-up of soot. When the DPF is cleaned, the excess soot is burned off. This lowers dangerous emissions and will reduce the amount of black smoke emitted by your vehicle.
When mild service is necessary, the Bluechem DPF Top Gun Cleaner combined with the High Pressure Gun allows automotive service shop to clean the DPF without removing it from the vehicle. For High build-up of soot and residuals (Clogged DPF), severe service of the DPF flushing is the solution.
Active regeneration will be initiated every 300 miles or so depending on how you use your car and will take 5 to 10 minutes to complete. But it's a problem if your journey's too short and the regeneration doesn't finish. During active regeneration you may notice: Cooling fans running.
Alter your driving habits
Do your research and find out how many miles you need to drive, and at what speed, to initiate the regeneration process and allow it sufficient time to complete. This will prevent any build-up of soot and particulates in the filter and extends the life-expectancy of your DPF.
One final consideration, it takes time for a DPF to block, sometimes years. Once blocked though, turbo failure can occur very quickly.
Although it is not illegal to remove a DPF filter form your vehicle, it is an offence under the Road vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Regulation 61a(3))1 to use a vehicle which has been modified in such a way that it no longer complies with the air pollutant emissions standards it was designed to meet.
You should consult the handbook for your vehicle for more specific guidance on how you should drive to initiate regeneration of the DPF and clear the warning light. Nevertheless, a general rule of thumb to follow is that you should run the engine at least 40 mph and at least 2500 rpm.