What's the most effective way to clear a DPF?

Motoring magazines often refer to taking the car for a fast run to clear the DPF. Surely a better way would be to drive in 4th or 5th gear with increased revs but slower speed since it is the increase in exhaust temperature which starts the process?

Asked on 21 April 2025 by Stefan

Answered by David Ross
The process for performing a DPF regeneration can vary between different vehicles, but we would not advise taking a car for a quick run. Generally speaking it is advisable to drive for an extended period at higher engine speeds with a constant throttle as much as possible. We would also advise having at least a quarter of a tank of fuel, as some vehicles will not regenerate with insufficient fuel.
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