What You Need To Know About Your Diesel Particulate Filter
Diesel-powered vehicles are becoming more popular on public roadways. This rise in popularity is due, in part, to the increased fuel efficiency that a diesel vehicle can offer. Many drivers don't have an in-depth knowledge of how a diesel engine system works.
The engine and exhaust system rely on a component called the diesel particulate filter to help prevent excessive pollution. You need to be familiar with your diesel particulate filter (DPF) if you want your diesel-powered vehicle to perform as efficiently as possible over time.
What Does a DPF Remove?
A diesel vehicle uses a compression and combustion ignition process to power its engine. This process can maximize the efficiency of a fuel source, but it can also generate soot particles that might be harmful if released into the atmosphere.
The DPF steps in to filter out soot particles before they pass through your vehicle's exhaust system and into the air.
How Does a DPF Work?
The process used by a DPF to eliminate soot particles is quite sophisticated. The soot particles get trapped in the DPF. At a set interval, your diesel vehicle will initiate an automatic regeneration process. This process temporary increases exhaust temperatures.
The higher temperature turns the soot particles into harmless ash that can then be expelled from your vehicle through the exhaust pipe. By initiating a regeneration process, the DPF can clean itself and continue to function effectively when it comes to trapping additional soot contaminants.
How Can You Spot a Problem With the DPF?
Because the DPF in your diesel-powered vehicle plays such a vital role in reducing emissions and maintaining the cleanliness of your engine, you must be able to spot any potential problems with the filter early so that you can invest in repairs.
The first indication of a problem is the illumination of the DPF light on your dashboard. Read through your owner's manual so that you are familiar with what the DPF light looks like. Your mechanic may be able to recommend a DPF cleaner fluid that will help clear out any clogged soot.
Ignoring problems with your DPF will eventually cause serious engine damage, leaving your vehicle inoperable.
Caring for a diesel-powered vehicle differs in many ways from caring for a gas-powered vehicle. One of the most important differences to be mindful of is the need to monitor the DPF in a diesel vehicle. If you understand what the DPF does and you can spot potential performance problems, you will be able to better maintain your diesel vehicle in the future.