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DPF Cleaning Maintenance: Why It’s More Critical Than Ever

  • Writer: The Enviromotive Experts
    The Enviromotive Experts
  • Apr 28
  • 2 min read

Starting in 2007, emissions regulations dramatically changed the landscape of heavy-duty diesel engine maintenance. New mandates required engines to use diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs) and diesel particulate filters (DPFs). By 2010, even stricter standards brought in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems to reduce NOx emissions.


Understanding how these systems work—and why proper DPF cleaning maintenance is crucial—is key to avoiding costly repairs and downtime.


How Modern Aftertreatment Systems Work

As John Lightner from Cummins explains in Vehicle Service Pros:

  • DOC: Changes exhaust chemistry and burns soot into ash.

  • DPF: Traps the ash until it’s removed through professional cleaning.

  • SCR: Injects DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to chemically eliminate NOx, leaving only water and nitrogen emissions.


These systems work together to drastically reduce harmful emissions, but they are highly sensitive to engine performance and maintenance practices.


Why Proper Engine Health is Essential

If the engine isn’t running correctly, it produces more emissions, clogging the DPF faster and increasing maintenance needs.


Common consequences of poor engine health include:

  • Increased soot buildup

  • Premature DPF clogging

  • Misdiagnosis of maintenance needs


Before focusing solely on cleaning the filter, ensure the engine itself is tuned and operating efficiently. Otherwise, even a cleaned filter will quickly clog again.


diesel emission output from truck

What Proper DPF Cleaning Maintenance Looks Like

When a DPF needs maintenance, you have two options:

1. Replacing the DPF

  • New DPF: Always reliable, but expensive.

  • Remanufactured DPF: More affordable, but quality varies. Always purchase from a trusted, reputable source.

2. Cleaning the Existing DPF

Choosing to professionally clean your existing filter can be highly effective if done correctly. Not all cleaning methods are the same; make sure you use a service that performs thorough, multi-step cleanings to restore the filter’s airflow and integrity.


Ignoring Warning Lights Can Cost You

As Duane Bratvold from Webasto points out, operator error is a leading cause of DPF failure. Ignoring a warning light and continuing to drive can force emergency repairs and even permanent system damage.

Key advice:

  • Respond to DPF warning lights immediately.

  • Don’t delay regenerations or maintenance.


Protect Your Investment with Proper DPF Cleaning Maintenance

Maintaining your diesel particulate filter properly will:

✔ Extend filter and engine life

✔ Improve fuel efficiency

✔ Reduce costly repairs and downtime

✔ Keep you compliant with EPA regulations


If you have questions about aftertreatment maintenance or DPF cleaning strategies, call us at (800) 954-8265. Our team at Enviromotive provides the most knowledgeable support in the industry.

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