About DPFs – Diesel Particulate Filters Explained
If you drive a diesel vehicle, chances are it’s fitted with a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). A DPF is a critical part of your vehicle’s emissions system, designed to trap harmful soot and ash particles produced by diesel engines.
At Top DPF Cleaning, we specialise in restoring DPFs to full performance — saving you money on costly replacements and helping reduce emissions.
🔧 What Is a DPF?
A diesel particulate filter is fitted in the exhaust system of most modern diesel vehicles. Its job is to trap fine particles (soot) created during combustion, preventing them from entering the atmosphere.
Over time, these particles build up in the filter and need to be cleared to avoid blockages.
🔁 What Is DPF Regeneration?
DPFs are designed to self-clean through a process called regeneration. This happens when the exhaust system gets hot enough to burn off the soot inside the filter. There are three types of regeneration:
Passive regeneration – Happens naturally on long, hot drives
Active regeneration – The ECU adds extra fuel to raise exhaust temperature
Forced regeneration – Carried out by a mechanic via diagnostic equipment
However, regeneration cannot remove ash, which builds up over time and restricts airflow.
❌ Why Do DPFs Get Blocked?
Your DPF can become blocked due to:
Short journeys or stop-start driving
Low-quality fuel or oil
Faulty sensors or glow plugs
Ash buildup that regeneration cannot remove
Symptoms of a blocked DPF include:
Loss of power
DPF warning lights
Increased fuel consumption
Engine in limp mode
Failed MOT due to emissions
🧼 Why Professional DPF Cleaning Is Essential
Ash — unlike soot — cannot be burned off during regeneration. It builds up slowly over time, especially after 100,000 miles, and clogs the DPF’s honeycomb structure.
Professional off-car industrial DPF cleaning removes both soot and ash, restoring flow and performance.
At Top DPF Cleaning, we remove over 98% of harmful buildup using our high-pressure water-based cleaning system — no chemicals, no heat, and no damage.
✅ Benefits of DPF Cleaning
Prevents costly DPF replacement
Improves fuel economy and engine performance
Clears warning lights and fault codes
Helps pass your MOT
Extends the life of your vehicle’s emissions system
Environmentally friendly maintenance solution
📍 Our Services
We offer:
Mobile DPF cleaning – We come to your garage or workshop
Drop-off DPF cleaning – At our Chippenham facility
Postal DPF cleaning – UK-wide by courier
All cleaning includes before-and-after testing and a 12-month warranty.
📞 Get Expert Help with Your DPF
If your vehicle has a DPF warning light or feels underpowered, it could be time for a clean.
Contact Top DPF Cleaning today for fast, professional DPF restoration.
📱 Call: 07983 497 705
📞 Office: 01249 554 522
📧 Email: info@top-dpfcleaning.co.uk
