How To Carry Out A DPF Regeneration

With Jamie, Our Volkswagen Master Technician

Since 2009, diesel cars have been equipped with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to reduce the amount of soot released through the exhaust. While your DPF works to keep emissions clean, it can sometimes become blocked. When the DPF warning light appears on your dashboard, it’s time to take action. Located in Sutton, Surrey, Volks Autos has over 180 years of combined experience with German brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Skoda, and VW Commercial vehicles. Jamie, our Volkswagen Master Technician, will guide you through the DPF regeneration process to ensure your German vehicle stays in top condition.

What Does the DPF Light Mean?

When the DPF light comes on, it’s usually a sign that the filter is clogged with soot and needs a regeneration to clear it.

What Causes A Blocked DPF?

DPFs are designed to regenerate by burning off excess soot when they reach a certain temperature. This usually happens during longer drives, like on a motorway, where the engine can get hot enough to trigger the regeneration cycle. However, if you mostly take short trips or drive at low speeds, the DPF may not reach the required temperature to complete this process, leading to a blockage.

How To Perform A DPF Regeneration

If the DPF warning light is on, it is indicating that the soot level in your DPF has hit a certain point and needs a regeneration to clean things up. Here’s how to carry out a DPF regeneration:

Prep Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road for a DPF regeneration, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

  • Fuel Up: Make sure you have at least a quarter tank of fuel.
  • Get Warm: Your vehicle should be at its normal operating temperature. No cold starts here!

Ready, Set, Regenerate!

Now, let’s get down to business. Here’s how to carry out a smooth DPF regeneration:

  • Find The Right Road: You’re looking for a stretch of road to maintain a constant speed without too many stops—motorways or major A roads are perfect.
  • Keep It Steady: Keep the car in 4th or 5th gear and aim for around 2500 rpm. Avoid harsh acceleration and heavy braking. It’s all about consistency!
  • Drive On: The regeneration process typically takes about 30 minutes of continuous driving. However, this can vary depending on your vehicle.

How To Know If It Worked?

After a successful regeneration, the DPF light should turn off. If it’s still glowing after about 30 minutes, don’t panic! It might be time to plug in and run a diagnostic to check if there are any underlying issues preventing the regeneration.

Expert DPF Diagnostics And Repairs For Your German Vehicle

Located in Sutton, Surrey, Volks Autos specialises in German vehicles, including Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Skoda and VW Commercial vehicles. We have particular expertise in diagnosing diesel particulate filter (DPF) faults. Our skilled technicians use dealer-level diagnostic equipment and tooling, including ODIS—Offboard Diagnostic Information System, to identify the cause of your DPF warning light accurately. This advanced software allows us to link diagnostic plans with workshop manuals, wiring diagrams, and more, ensuring we diagnose and resolve issues efficiently.

If you have a fault needing investigation, simply book online or contact our service team.

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FAQs

Why do I need to service my vehicle?

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Regularly servicing your vehicle not only ensures its safety but also helps prevent unnecessary additional repairs, keeping it in the best possible condition. Routine oil and filter changes are essential, as the oil lubricates internal components, and the filters collect particles that contaminate the oil during use. By regularly servicing your vehicle, you can avoid costly mechanical repairs in the future and maintain optimal performance.

What service do I need?

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Minor Service: Typically recommended every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.

Minor Service With Pollen Filter: Typically recommended every 2 years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Major Service: Typically recommended every 4 years or 40,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Please Note: Service intervals may vary depending on your vehicle’s needs and the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you are unsure about the type of service your vehicle requires, our friendly and knowledgeable service team is here to assist you. We can access your manufacturer's technical data, service intervals, and schedules. We will guide you through the manufacturer's recommendations based on your vehicle's age and service history.

What is an air filter?

The function of an Air filter is to help stop contaminants from getting into the engine, helping to extend its life. It also lets the engine breathe more easily, which can help enhance performance and efficiency.

What is a pollen filter?

The purpose of a pollen filter is to stop contaminants getting into your interior via its heating and ventilation system. The pollen filter prevents dust, dirt, soot and pollen entering your vehicle interior. As well as having the added benefit of protecting against pollution gases, exhaust fumes and bad odour.

Must I use a main dealer until my manufacturer’s warranty expires?

You are not required to have your vehicle serviced by a main dealer to maintain the manufacturer's warranty. Thanks to the European Block Exemption regulation introduced in October 2003, you can choose where to service your car. At Volks Autos, our brand-trained technicians ensure that your service follows the manufacturer's recommended schedule using approved parts. We will update your service book or digital service schedule to reflect the completed work.

Can only main dealer update my Digital Service Record?

As a registered German car specialist, we have secure access to check and update your service record for all German vehicles and most manufacturers currently using Digital Service Records. Additionally, we can review your Digital Service Record to provide advice on any upcoming service items that may be due, all in line with your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications. 

Explore Our Guide to Digital Service Records

Can you reset my service light once the service is complete?

Yes. We have all the necessary electronic equipment to be able to reset your service light and variable service indicators once we have completed your service here at Volks Autos.

Do you perform a health check on my vehicle during the service?

Volks Autos Health Check For Service

During your oil change service, our brand-trained technicians will perform a detailed Health Check on your vehicle. This check covers various aspects of your vehicle's health, and the results will be sent directly to your phone, allowing you to see any issues first-hand.

Learn more by visiting our Health Checks Explained

Will you let me know if there is any additional work needed?

We will not proceed with any additional work without your authorisation. If further repairs are needed, your service advisor will contact you with an estimate for the required work.

3rd party warranty – Can I use this at Volks Autos?

Yes, you can use a third-party warranty at Volks Autos. After diagnosing the fault, we can communicate with your warranty company on your behalf, explaining the issue and providing a repair estimate. Typically, customers pay the repair fees to the garage, and the warranty company reimburses them. Most warranty companies require the customer to authorise and cover diagnosis costs before agreeing to contribute to the repair.

Do you offer warranty on repairs you carry out?

We use only the highest quality parts from trusted suppliers and offer a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on all mechanical repairs.

Do I need to pay upfront?

Payment is due upon completion of the work when you collect your vehicle. We accept most credit and debit cards or cash. Some special order parts may need to be paid for before ordering.

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