What is a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?

The DPF (or diesel particulate filter) is designed to collect the soot from the exhaust gas in a diesel engine. All diesel vehicles built since 2007 are required by law to have a diesel particulate filter installed.

How does the DPF function?

When comparing how a DPF/DOC works, there are two different types of regeneration strategies.

All 2007 or higher model on-highway trucks that have a DPF installed uses active regeneration. When the truck is going faster than 20 mph and the filter gets full, the engine will automatically do a  regeneration and burn off the collected particulate.

On some retrofit filters, a passive chemical regeneration is used. The duty cycle for such filters need to have exhaust temperature that is above 575°F for more than 30% of the duty cycle. What is left in the filter afterwards is a small bit of ash or soot, similar to the ash of a cigarette. If the truck idles for long periods, the dash alert light will come on and notify the driver to do a manual regeneration.

The more ash that is collected in the filter, the shorter the time intervals will be between regeneration. As the DPF becomes clogged, the  engine will start losing power and the fuel economy will reduce. The driver will be alerted by warning lights, but if he ignores it and does not get it cleaned, the engine will shut off completely.

How does the DPF function?

When comparing how a DPF/DOC works, there are two different types of regeneration strategies.

All 2007 or higher model on-highway trucks that have a DPF installed uses active regeneration. When the truck is going faster than 20 mph and the filter gets full, the engine will automatically do a  regeneration and burn off the collected particulate.

On some retrofit filters, a passive chemical regeneration is used. The duty cycle for such filters need to have exhaust temperature that is above 575°F for more than 30% of the duty cycle. What is left in the filter afterwards is a small bit of ash or soot, similar to the ash of a cigarette. If the truck idles for long periods, the dash alert light will come on and notify the driver to do a manual regeneration.

The more ash that is collected in the filter, the shorter the time intervals will be between regeneration. As the DPF becomes clogged, the  engine will start losing power and the fuel economy will reduce. The driver will be alerted by warning lights, but if he ignores it and does not get it cleaned, the engine will shut off completely.

Why can’t I just remove my DPF?

According to the DPF guidance sheet on the GOV website, it is an offense to remove the DPF…

“it is an offense to use a vehicle which has been modified in such a way that it no longer complies with the air pollutant emissions standards that it was designed to meet. Removal of a DPF will almost invariably contravene these requirements, making the vehicle illegal for road use.”

How much does a new DPF cost?

A new Diesel Particulate Filter cost can vary between $3,000 and $10,000.


Should a DPF / DOC be cleaned?

Absolutely. By cleaning your diesel particle filter on a regular basis you will extend the life of your filter and keep your vehicle running longer.

How often should a DPF / DOC be cleaned?

How often you should clean your DPF/DOC depends upon the manufacturer. Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, GMC and Volvo all have different recommendations for cleaning their DPF/DOC.

What benefits do I gain by keeping my DPF/DOC on a regular cleaning schedule?

There are many benefits to keeping your filter cleaning including…

Better fuel economy 

Less chance of downtime

Less regeneration

Extending your filter life

Reduced maintenance costs

Extended cleaning intervals

Why should I choose DPF Xpress?

DPF Xpress is a family owned company based in the Carolinas. Our years in the vehicle service industry allowed us to see a growing need in diesel exhaust cleaning services. We are proud to offer this service at a quicker turnaround than our competitors but with an eye to detail and guaranteed results. Our 10 point certification process ensures that your filter will be cleaned to the exact same high standards every single time.

What benefits do I gain by keeping my DPF/DOC on a regular cleaning schedule?

There are many benefits to keeping your filter cleaning including…

Better fuel economy 

Less chance of downtime

Less regeneration

Extending your filter life

Reduced maintenance costs

Extended cleaning intervals

Why should I choose DPF Xpress?

DPF Xpress is a family owned company based in the Carolinas. Our years in the vehicle service industry allowed us to see a growing need in diesel exhaust cleaning services. We are proud to offer this service at a quicker turnaround than our competitors but with an eye to detail and guaranteed results. Our 10 point certification process ensures that your filter will be cleaned to the exact same high standards every single time.