DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Regeneration

Date: 29/03/2011

Time: 11.12am

Location: Vehicle Investigations Unit - SP Headquarters

Problem: Blocked DPF on a Peugeot 307 HDI

As you may know, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration, continental name for task FAP (Filter Anti-Particulate) regeneration is a modern electronic service task relating to a number of later diesel vehicles. Basically, it is the forced cleaning of a filter inside the exhaust system that catches and traps soot and dependant on driving styles, it can self clean but often the filter can still become blocked, causing a dash light warning to come on advising urgent action.

First things first, all system errors, faults or trouble codes must be read, rectified where present and cleared for this to occur, so use the SPe to do this, (if on a vehicle fitted with a fuel additive tank – top up the tank with fluid and electronically reset the counter & reset codes for low additive level first). Then find a clear or open space, select the DPF/FAP regeneration service task on the SPe and follow the info on screen that will guide you through the process.

It will ask for at least ¼ tank of fuel to undertake the task, a hot engine and you supply the patience; you enter the task and then the tool takes over, gradually loading up and revving the engine – which builds up terrific heat and pressure in the exhaust system and burns the blockage internally out of the filter. Information appears on the screen letting you know what’s going to happen – so you just wait for 10 minutes or so for the process to be completed. However, please ensure no other vehicle (or valuable item) is close to the exhaust tailpipe – the output during this phase can burn paint away!

Verdict: Case closed – Problem solved by Professor Rob