The DPF traps the harmful particulates so that they can later be burned off during the filter regeneration process, which converts them chiefly into carbon dioxide and water.

Filter regeneration takes place every 300 kilometers. You vehicle is equipped with an electronic control unit that calculates the volume of particulates that has built up and indicates when the process to eliminate them should ideally begin.

To remove the particulate matter, the DPF must operate at over 400 degrees Celsius. If it doesn’t, the filter may clog and have trouble trapping the particulate matter. This is a fairly common occurrence if you only drive in the city, if you usually don’t over 60 kilometers an hour, if you use your car mainly for short trips or if your engine idles a lot.

Your DPF can experience problems even if your vehicle is correctly maintained and you use a good quality lubricant recommended by the manufacturer, usually a 5W-30 grade. The DPF warning light on your dashboard is likely to come on at some time to let you know you need to take your car into the shop for forced regeneration. You might also notice that your car is losing power and not working as well; fuel consumption and carbon emissions may even increase.