DPF CLEANING
FOR LAND ROVERS, RANGE ROVERS & INEOS GRENADIERS.
Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) are now a standard part of most modern diesel vehicles. They play an important role in reducing harmful exhaust emissions and protecting air quality, but they also need the right driving conditions and maintenance to work properly.
When problems develop, understanding what’s happening is the first step to avoiding unnecessary repairs.
WHAT IS A DPF & WHAT CAUSES DPF PROBLEMS?
A DPF is fitted to the exhaust system of diesel vehicles to capture soot particles produced during combustion. Its purpose is to reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality and help vehicles meet emissions regulations.
Over time, the DPF fills with soot. Under the right conditions, this soot is burned off in a process called regeneration.
DPFs are designed to regenerate naturally during longer, steady drives. Problems often occur when vehicles are used mainly for short trips, spend a lot of time in stop-start traffic or don't reach the exhaust temperatures needed for regeneration.
When regeneration can't take place, soot builds up and the DPF can become partially or fully blocked.
When were dpfs introduced & what are common signs of a dpf issue?
DPFs were introduced to meet increasingly strict emissions standards.
As a general guide:
- Most diesel vehicles from around 2009 onwards are fitted with a DPF.
- Earlier diesel models may not have one.
- Petrol vehicles do not have DPFs.
Most modern diesel Land Rover and Range Rover models, as well as the INEOS Grenadier diesel, are fitted with a DPF.
DPF problems often develop gradually. Common signs include:
- DPF or engine warning lights.
- Reduced performance or limp mode.
- Increased fuel consumption.
- Cooling fans running more often than usual.
Addressing these early can help avoid more costly repairs later.
What is adblue and how does it relate to dpfs?
Many modern diesel vehicles also use AdBlue, which is part of the emissions control system.
AdBlue:
- Helps reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.
- Works alongside the DPF, not inside it.
- Is used mainly on newer Euro 6 diesel vehicles.
- The system requires regular top-ups from a dedicated tank, and your vehicle provides warnings before it stops you from restarting if empty, so keeping it filled is essential for legal compliance and proper engine function.
While AdBlue doesn’t clean the DPF itself, both systems work together to keep emissions within legal limits.
Professional dpf cleaning & products explained
Professional DPF cleaning is designed to restore proper exhaust flow and support efficient regeneration.
DPF cleaning can help:
- Remove built-up soot.
- Improve engine performance.
- Reduce fuel consumption.
- Extend the life of the DPF.
It’s often recommended when:
- Warning lights appear.
- Regeneration has failed.
- The vehicle is used mainly on short journeys.
Cleaning is usually a more cost-effective option than DPF replacement when carried out early.
In addition to professional cleaning, we also supply and use Forte DPF Cleaner and Regenerator.
Forte DPF Cleaner and Regenerator:
- Helps lower the temperature at which soot burns.
- Supports more efficient regeneration.
- Is especially useful for vehicles used on short trips.
- Can help maintain DPF health between services.
Used correctly, products like this can form part of a preventative maintenance routine.
When to contact us.
If your vehicle is showing warning lights, suffering from reduced performance, or you're unsure whether your driving pattern is affecting your DPF, it's best to have it checked sooner rather than later. Early advice can help prevent forced regeneration, component damage and an expensive DPF replacement.
Our expert technicians can carry out a forced regeneration or remove the DPF unit and professionally test and clean the unit in-house with our specialist equipment.
If it’s found not to be damaged internally, we will carry out a thorough clean to get rid of all the soot and carbon build up restoring your DPF back to as new condition. This service will save you having to replace the costly unit.
Our parts department supply AdBlue and DPF cleaning and regeneration products, including Forte DPF Cleaner and Regenerator, for customers who want to help support their vehicle’s emissions system between services. If you're unsure which product is suitable for your vehicle, or how to use it correctly, we’re always happy to advise.
DPF & ADBLUE TESTIMONIAL
DPF CLEANING FAQ'S
Will air conditioning still work if the gas is low?
It may still operate, but cooling performance will reduce and the system may be under unnecessary strain. Regular checks help prevent this.
Do all Land Rovers and Range Rovers have a DPF?
Most diesel Land Rover and Range Rover models from around 2009 onwards are fitted with a DPF. Petrol models do not have a DPF.
Does the INEOS Grenadier have a DPF?
Yes. Diesel INEOS Grenadier models are fitted with a DPF as part of their emissions system.
Can short journeys damage a DPF?
Frequent short journeys can prevent proper regeneration, which may lead to soot build-up and DPF issues over time.
What happens if a DPF becomes blocked?
A blocked DPF can cause warning lights, reduced performance, higher fuel consumption and, if left untreated, more serious engine-related issues.
Does AdBlue clean the DPF?
No. AdBlue reduces NOx emissions but does not clean the DPF itself. Both systems work together to meet emissions standards.
Can DPF cleaning products prevent problems?
DPF cleaning products can help support regeneration and maintain DPF health, especially for vehicles used on short journeys, but they don’t replace proper diagnosis if a fault is present.
How do I know if my vehicle needs DPF cleaning?
Warning lights, reduced performance or increased fuel consumption are common signs. If in doubt, an inspection can help determine the cause.
