Diesel particulate filters restrict exhaust free flow and once they are blocked, it becomes like having a potato stuck up the tailpipe!
Before we clean a DPF we use a borescope to visually inspect the filter ceramic. We're able to quickly determine if the filter is worth cleaning, there is no point in spending your money on this process if there is little chance of success. In 95% of cases properly applied chemical cleaning will result in a filter being returned to normal operation. The biggest drawback is that the cause of the DPF problem must also be identified and resolved to prevent reoccurance.
Should your filter have collapsed and chemical cleaning is no longer possible Dragon Automotive can offer installation of a replacement filter. Genuine filters have a greater longevity but we accept that the costs may be prohibitive, aftermarket filters may also be available for some models. The vehicle must be checked for any underlying issues that could've caused the failure as well.
We can remove your DPF filter and remap your engine ECU software to eliminate the need for a DPF filter as part of a test process for the fault. Our bypass process includes a remap of the engine ECU to reduce engine emissions, which means the vehicle will still be in line with emissions regulations. This process has implications on roadworthiness, start by contacting us for more information
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), sometimes called FAP on French vehicles (and of course fitted in Mini Diesels), is a filter designed to collect the diesel particulate matter (carbon soot) from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.
The particulate accumulates in the filter and this needs to be emptied for the filter to continue functioning. The filter burns the particulate at very high temperatures before blasting the treated content out the exhaust.
DPF Sensors monitor the accumulation of soot to calculate when regen is required, temperature is also monitored and controlled. Some DPF systems have a DPF PAT fluid system to assist with regen cycles, often by allowing the regen to occur at a lower temperature. The fluid will need renewal periodically.
A high quality chemical properly and directly applied to the DPF filter will always work provided the filter isn't starting to collapse. We have successfully cleaned DPF filters that were so blocked that the vehicle no longer ran or started.
Cleaning a DPF filter has the same pitfalls as replacing it. Whilst we guarantee to unblock a blocked DPF, we cannot guarantee to keep it unblocked. This is why we always perform an initial assessment before we agree to any DPF works.
If the DPF filter has started to collapse, cleaning it will not work. We cannot always guarantee a filter hasn't started to collapase internally (nobody can).
As with replacing a filter the cause of the DPF blockage must be addressed.
The way you drive your car often leads to the DPF blocking. Short journeys, switching the car off whilst its performing a regen (DPF light comes on and people switch the car off despite the handbook advising against). Normally driving style affects the earlier DPF filters more, pre 2010 cars.
At some point the filter will start to break up, this happens in about 10% of all the DPF filters that we see. Typically with over 150,000 miles on the car or where lots of short journeys with excessive regens. Basically because the filter goes through hot and cold cycles it evenautally cracks.
EGR, Pressure Sensors, Injectors, Air Leaks, MAF, Turbo and a whole host of other problems can easily cause your DPF to block. We often repair vehicles that have had a DPF filter cleaned or replaced elsewhere only for the filter to block within a matter of days or weeks due to an underlying issue upstream.
We are able to offer a complete DPF removal package for all BMW and Mini DPF Filters.
There are a number of pitfalls to this, most notably is that you should inform the DVLA as the vehicle will no longer be compliant with EU4 or later emissions regulations and may be taxed differently.
After a DPF removal you will benefit from:-
Better MPG
Better Performance
Increased BHP
You will not be able to tell visually that the DPF has been removed, nor will a standard MOT test be able to detect an increase in NOX or Soot Emissions.
Removing a DPF filter will increase Soot and Particle Emissions
However, because you gain MPG benefits you are burning less fuel.
DragonAuto.Works are a South Wales Independent BMW, Mini & Performance Car Specialist. We're 100% Independent!
We are 100% Independent of BMW AG any use of a BMW Trademark is to ensure customers can identify their make and model of vehicle.
Our focus is you, the customer, we aim to deliver better than dealer service levels, better than dealer capabilities and above all else a much better price.
Before you book work on your BMW or Mini at Sytner Cardiff, Sytner Newport, Trainers Swansea or Dick Lovett consider contacting us for a free quote. Even if you have a service plan we guarantee we can offer a better price on essentials like tyres and brakes.
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