during the year my car was made, it seems the DPF's were optional - so I'm hoping that i do not have one!
What is it?
It is basically a filter that sits around the Catalytic Converter in the exhaust system- that collects diesel particles, and produces cleaner air from the end of the exhaust. These are now standard of diesel cars to produce less emissions. There is a system within the DPF that burns off the particles.
How do i know if i have one?
There are various ways of finding out.
1. Take note of the VIN, and phone the dealer to ask them
2. Take a look underneath the car, and the exhaust system - approximately underneath where the handbrake is there should be a small box with two tubes running to it as part of the exhaust system. If you have this, you have a DPF.
3. Do you notice white smoke coming of your exhaust sometimes for a few seconds? If yes, you have a DPF - that's the particles getting burnt off.
This is what a DPF might look like - depends completely though on car manufacturer:
Are there problems with having one?
Yes, there can be. Below are a few to be aware of
1. If you have a DPF, and just do short town journeys the filter can get blocked up and cause engine management problems. You need to take the car on a 30 minute motorway journey once a month to clear out the system. Ensure you are doing over 2,500 revs for at least 15mins.
2. Whilst your road tax may be cheaper because of the lower emissions - the servicing could be costly. The DPF's use a fluid to help burn off the particles, this needs renewing over time and is expensive. the DPF also needs replacing at some point, and this is very expensive!
3. You need to ensure your servicing is kept up to date, otherwise you may end up with some very costly bills!
Hope this helps. I for one, am hoping i do not have a DPF!
Luckily it appears my car is Non-DPF!
ReplyDeleteTips for checking if you have one:
1. Look under the car - can you see anything that looks like the above image?
2. Phone your dealer with your VIN and ask them!