You may be alarmed if you see messages on your dashboard indicating the diesel particulate filter is full and you should continue driving.
If you see this message, you might wonder why it appears and how you can make it disappear. This message is one I’ve encountered many times in my career as a mechanic. I’m going to explain why this message came up and how you can solve it. Let’s get started
What Are Diesel Particulate Filters?
Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) catch diesel particles in your exhaust and are part of your car’s exhaust system. Black smoke is prevented from entering the air by this device.
Black smoke from the exhaust of your car indicates that the DPF isn’t working properly. The DPF gets clogged up over time from catching waste, so it needs to be cleaned.
DPFs are capable of self-cleaning. A fast car burns away extra soot in its DPF when you drive it for a long time. Passive regeneration is what it’s called.
It should work well for diesel cars since they are designed for such driving. Diesel cars can cause the filter to become clogged if they are driven in this way all the time.
Particulate Filter Full Continue Driving mean?
Let’s look at what it means to have a full DPF now that I have briefly explained what it is.
Diesel particulate filters need to be cleaned when they become clogged.
You will receive the warning “Diesel Particulate Filter is Full, Continue Driving” on your dashboard when your DPF reaches full due to sensors that monitor soot levels.
Warning Lights Causes
Diesel vehicles have computers that clean the diesel particulate filter (DPF)
An illuminated warning light can be caused by a number of things.
There are several reasons why this could be happening:
1. Your car hasn’t been driven enough:
When the warning light goes on, it means your car hasn’t been driven for a long time.
Before your computer can clean any soot from your DPF, it needs to run a few miles.
2. The car is switched off during cleaning:
Your car will display a warning light if you turn off the engine before it is fully cleaned.
3. Journeys with short stop-starts:
The warning light can illuminate during short, stop-and-go journeys.
As a result, the cleaning process takes longer to begin once your car reaches the correct temperature.
4. Prolonged idling:
The warning light can be illuminated if the car is idling for a long time.
The DPF will require more frequent cleaning if you idle for too long, since soot will build up.
How Do You Deal with the “Diesel Particulate Filter is Full Continue Driving”?
To fix and reset the fault message, it is recommended that you continue driving while the DPF system is self-cleaning through the regeneration process.
You need to drive a minimum speed of 50 KM/Hour and keep the RPMs above 2000 for it to work.
Initially, the filter will become clogged with soot, but after driving for a while it will begin to regenerate itself.
The fault message should go away after 20-30 minutes, based on my experience. As soon as it’s done, you can drive normally again.
The diagnosis of a deeper problem can be determined if both the MIL (Check Engine Light) and the “Diesel Particulate Filter is Full Continue Driving” message appear.
You’ll have to check the DPF system, because it looks like it’s got a problem.
Identifying full or blocked DPFs in other ways
If your Diesel Particulate Filter is full or blocked, you can tell whether it is by the DPF warning light and the fault message. Among them are:
Exhaust black smoke
The exhaust may be filled with black smoke if you see black smoke coming from it.
Unburned soot particles released into the atmosphere cause the black smoke.
Power Loss
Your DPF might be full or blocked if you notice a loss of power.
As a result of a blocked filter, your vehicle has to work harder to climb hills and maintain speed when it is blocked, which causes a loss of efficiency.
Fuel economy is reduced
The fuel economy of a vehicle can also be reduced when the DPF is blocked.
You will use more fuel than usual because your vehicle is working harder.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I continue driving with a full DPF?
Continuing to drive with a full or blocked DPF can lead to several issues, including decreased engine performance and increased fuel consumption. Eventually, the vehicle may enter ‘limp-home’ mode to prevent further damage, limiting speed and power until the issue is resolved.
How can I tell if my DPF is full?
You may notice a warning light on your dashboard indicating that the DPF is full. This light signals that the filter has reached its capacity and needs immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to more severe problems.
What should I do if the DPF light comes on?
If the DPF light illuminates, you should attempt to perform an active regeneration by driving at speeds above 40 mph for about 10-15 minutes. This process raises the exhaust temperature, allowing trapped soot to burn off and clear the filter. If this does not resolve the issue, you may need to visit a mechanic for further assistance.
Can I ignore the DPF warning light?
Ignoring the DPF warning light is not advisable. Continued driving in this state can lead to a complete blockage of the filter, resulting in costly repairs or even replacement of the DPF, which can exceed £1,000.
How often does the DPF need to regenerate?
The frequency of regeneration depends on driving habits. Vehicles that are driven mainly in stop-and-go traffic may require more frequent active regeneration compared to those driven on highways. Regular long drives can help maintain the DPF’s functionality by allowing passive regeneration to occur naturally.
Is it safe to drive with a blocked DPF?
While it may be possible to drive short distances with a blocked DPF, it is not safe in the long term. Continuing to drive under these conditions can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs. It is essential to address any issues with the DPF as soon as they arise.
