How can I manually regenerate my diesel engine's DPF system?
QUESTION
Hi John,
I used your tips and saved 10k on my Transit Custom in 2018.
I just watched your DPF video when I was surfing YouTube for reasons why my ‘Adblue system malfunction’ warning popped up and ‘exhaust filter clean required’ ; then an orange engine light and a red ‘!’.
I was surprised, as I'd just filled the Adblue tank and travel into Brisbane from the GC, and back, every day and do more than enough to "crank up the heat" in the DPF.
I dropped my better half at her mates on the Sunny Coast today and on the way back these messages popped up at the start of the return 300k trip. It also had ‘no engine start in 760kms’. I realised my DPF was obviously clogged, so I used a lower gear to make sure I was within the 2K to 3.5K range to get the furnace going.
It worked and all the lights went off but towards the end of your video you mentions possible faults in the ‘in-take’ system that could be leaking. I'm still under warranty and would like to be prepared when addressing this with my local Ford dealer, as we know how fantastic they are.
Do you have any other advice for me to use when debating all the BS they inevitably say?
Thanks John, keep up the good work.
Jeff
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ANSWER
Hey Jeff,
You essentially forced the DPF to regenerate, and it worked. Therefore, it seems to me the system is functioning. You might want to drop it out of overdrive once a week on the highway, or something, to hit the target revs as a pre-emptive strike against this kind of thing happening again.
You can also buy an OBDII reader and Bluetooth dongle like a Bluedriver (Google it >>). This will allow you to plug into the onboard diagnostics port under the dash and bluetooth the data to your smartphone or tablet, and get real-time info on the operating condition of the car’s systems (including regen status and DPF particle load, probably). This allows you to screenshot any problems and shove the evidence in the dealer’s face.
Pro Tip: Don’t get distracted with all this while you drive - it’s best to do this two-up. Have a trusted someone drive, while you surf the data.
JC
MORE INFORMATION IF YOU DRIVE A MODERN DIESEL
DPF regeneration for dummies >>
Your DPF warning light just came on: What should you do? >>
Practical engine run-in advice for tradies with utes >>
Do diesel engines actually run lean? >>
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