Part explained
DPF (diesel particulate filter): replacement and symptoms
The DPF traps soot particles from diesel exhaust gas. On short urban trips it doesn't get hot enough to regenerate automatically — and that's when it clogs. This page covers the difference between cleaning, replacement, and regeneration, and what a new or reconditioned DPF costs.
By the onderdelen.autos editorial team · Updated
What does the DPF do?
The DPF sits in the exhaust of nearly every modern diesel and filters >95% of soot particles. On highway runs it regenerates passively as exhaust temperature climbs above 550 °C and burns soot to ash. On short trips that does not happen — the ECU initiates active regeneration by injecting extra fuel. Repeated failure clogs the filter and triggers limp mode.
Symptoms of a clogged DPF
- OBD-II fault code P2002 / P244A.
- Check-engine light on; limp mode / reduced power.
- Higher idle than usual (active regeneration cycle).
- Burnt-soot smell and bluish-grey smoke during regen.
- Higher fuel consumption and oil dilution.
When to replace
Indicative 120,000 – 200,000 km. Short-trip drivers will not reach that — cleaning (remove + bench-burn) is often cheaper than replacing. Cleaning: € 200 – € 400. Replacement: € 600 – € 2,200. Reconditioned units from Dutch dismantlers: € 150 – € 600 with warranty.
Typical interval: 120,000–200,000 km
What does it cost?
New: € 600 – € 2,200 depending on make and AdBlue integration. Reconditioned or used: € 150 – € 600. Workshop labour: 2 – 4 hours plus the ECU coding (the new DPF must be registered with the engine management).
| Condition | From | To |
|---|---|---|
| New | € 600 | € 2200 |
| Used / refurbished | € 150 | € 600 |
Compare reconditioned and used DPF units from Dutch sellers.
DIY?
Difficulty: Hard
Mechanically the DPF is two clamps + sensors. The real work is software — counters must be reset and the differential pressure measurement re-learned. Without the right tool the warning light stays on.
- OBD-II reader with DPF reset capability
- Spanners + exhaust clamps
- Workshop lift + heat shielding
Frequently asked questions
Can I delete or "tune out" my DPF?
No — DPF delete is an MOT failure and triggers emissions enforcement. Cleaning or replacement is the only legal path.
Clean or replace?
Cleaning works while the filter isn't physically damaged. Cost € 200 – € 400 vs € 600+ to replace. Have a workshop measure first.
What does workshop replacement cost?
€ 400 – € 1,200 including the part.
How do I keep the DPF clean?
One 45+ minute highway run every two weeks. Avoid pure city driving with a diesel.
Does a [[topic:turbo|turbo]] fault affect the DPF?
Indirectly yes — incomplete combustion means more soot and faster DPF loading. Investigate both together.
Related parts
DPF units from Dutch inventory
Compare Dutch dismantlers and order directly.