What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

How can I tell when the DPF is regenerating?

Is it possible to purchase anything that lets you know when your diesel particulate filter (DPF) is regenerating e.g. something simple like a bulb lighting up?

Asked on 4 January 2022 by Kevin Smith

Answered by Sarah Tooze
I'm not aware of this kind of product, only diagnostic tools. If you keep an eye on your instant fuel economy and you see a sudden reduction that could indicate diesel is being used to actively regenerate the DPF. Other signs to look out for are the cooling fans running at a higher capacity than normal, the stop-start function deactivating or the engine note changing. You could also try putting your window down when you are driving to see if there is a hot, acrid smell from the exhaust.
Similar questions
I do about 12,000 miles a year, mostly short runs with occasional motorway long hauls. I know most (if not all) modern diesels have DPFs which can give problems. But I like diesels because of the relaxed...
I have a BMW X18D. The vehicle is consuming oil. There are no leaks so the oil is being burned into the engine. The DPF light has now come on. My mechanic informs me that the DPF is getting so hot that...
Is there a diesel car yet that can cope with town driving/short journeys without clogging the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) components?
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer