Top 5 Signs Your Diesel Vehicle Has DPF Issues
If you drive a diesel vehicle, your engine is fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) — a device designed to trap soot and reduce emissions. While they help meet regulations, they also come with problems.
At Pro Remapping, we deal with DPF issues every day. Whether it’s failed regens, warning lights, or limp mode, spotting the signs early can help you avoid costly repairs or breakdowns.
Here are the top 5 signs your diesel car or van might have a DPF problem.
1. Warning Lights on the Dashboard
The most common clue is a DPF warning light. Depending on the vehicle, you might see:
- DPF symbol (looks like a box with dots)
- Check engine light (EML)
- Glow plug light flashing (especially on VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda)
These lights often appear when the filter is blocked or a regeneration cycle has failed.
Don’t ignore them. If the system can’t regenerate properly, it will go into limp mode — and eventually prevent the engine from starting.
2. Loss of Power or Limp Mode
One of the first things drivers notice is a drop in performance.
- Throttle response becomes sluggish
- The vehicle struggles to accelerate
- Rev limits drop
- The car may not go past 2,500–3,000 RPM
- Limp mode activates to protect the engine
This happens because a blocked DPF creates backpressure — which reduces turbo efficiency and airflow.
3. Increased Fuel Consumption
If your DPF isn’t working properly, your engine may start to run less efficiently. You might notice:
- Frequent regenerations (burning extra fuel to clear soot)
- Higher fuel bills without any change in driving style
- Poor MPG on motorway journeys
Regens should happen occasionally. If they’re happening every few hundred miles, something’s wrong.
4. Strong Smells or Excessive Fan Use After Switching Off
A burning smell after a long drive — especially when you park up — could indicate a regeneration attempt. In some cases, the cooling fan might keep running for several minutes after you turn off the engine.
This means the car was trying to burn off soot but either failed or was interrupted mid-cycle. Short journeys, traffic, or low fuel levels can stop regens from completing.
5. Difficulty Starting or Failed Regens
If the DPF becomes fully blocked, your car may:
- Struggle to start
- Cut out after ignition
- Fail to complete regeneration cycles
- Show countdown messages like “No Engine Start in X Miles”
At this stage, a forced regen or DPF delete is often needed to get the car running normally again.
What Causes DPF Issues?
- Repeated short journeys
- Cheap or incorrect engine oil
- EGR valve or turbo problems
- Driving in low revs constantly
- Faulty sensors or pressure pipes
What Can You Do About It?
You have a few options, depending on how bad the issue is:
- Forced DPF Regen: Clears mild blockages (temporary solution)
- DPF Clean: Chemical cleaning or off-car deep clean (can be expensive)
- DPF Replacement: Often costs £800–£2,000+
- DPF Delete (Off-Road Use Only): Permanent removal of DPF functions via ECU for vehicles not used on public roads
Need Help? Pro Remapping Can Fix It
We offer diagnostics, DPF deletes (off-road only), and custom remaps that eliminate limp mode and restore full power.
📍 Visit: Unit 2, 2 Cutts Street,
Wood Terrace Hanley St14LX
🌐 Website: https://proremapping.com
📞 Call: 074040 22260 or 07386547990
Let us help you get your diesel running right again.
