In the UK, all diesel vehicles manufactured after 2009 come with a diesel particulate filter or PDF. At some point, DPFs will need to is replaced, so if you own a diesel car you’ve probably wondered how much does it cost to get a diesel particulate filter replaced. Keep reading to find up-to-date information about replacement costs.
A short intro to DPFs
When diesel is burnt, soot is created as a by product of the combustion process. Soot particles are smaller than dust, but don’t usually pose a risk to the vehicle’s engine unless they build up in large clumps.
However, these particles are pushed out in to the environment through the vehicle’s exhaust. We now know that on going exposure to this substance can become a health hazard and has a negative impact on the environment.
To reduce pollution and health hazards, countries like the UK developed an emissions control program me, part of which was to fit diesel cars with filters capable of handling small particulate matter like soot. These filters have been mandatory in the UK since 2011.
Is it true that DPFs get clogged quickly?
Diesel particulate filters have something of a bad rap, as they’re very sensitive to particle build-up. It’s important to know what causes a DPF to be come clogged, because otherwise you could end up needing a replacement sooner than you expect.
What’s the average life span of a DPF?
We’ve discussed this in a previous article, but it really depends on your driving habits. If you only take short trips in busy city traffic, the filter could get clogged after as little as 50,000 miles. Motor way driving and proper servicing can increase the life span of a DPF to 200,000 miles.
The DPF regeneration process
Diesel engines are built to handle small particles like soot in two ways.
- Through an active regeneration process, where exhaust gas increases its temperature to the point trapped soot burns and turns in to ash, which is then released as CO2. This process activates itself at low speeds as long as the car is moving.
- Passive regeneration, which automatically burns soot particles when ever the vehicle runs at 40 miles/hour for about 30 to 45 minutes.
The problem is that city drivers rarely get to keep their car moving for long enough and at speeds high enough, so active regeneration doesn’t take place. If you only use your diesel car in cities, soot build-up can clog your vehicle’s DPF. If you see a red DPF warning light, it’s time to get your filter replaced.
How much does DPF replacement cost?
DPF prices vary depending on your car’s make and whether they come with a catalytic converter or not. At Krosfou, they supply high-performance DPFs that meet the latest UK and EU standards in terms of materials and manufacturing.
Their diesel filters range from approximately £550 to £690, inclusive of VAT. If you have any questions about which filter you need, where to get it replaced, or DPF replacement cost, get in touch with krosfou team.