When your auto dashboard has the DPF warning light, you should be check the dpf system fault. The warning light indicates the soot built up in your car DPF system is not being burned correctly. You may read from your manufacturer owners’ handbook about how to burn off the soot in the DPF, but sometimes it may does not work. Original diagnostic tool is necessary to do a forced regeneration, such as original Autel MaxiCheck DPF and original VPECKER Easydia will help you reset the DPF warning light, reset DPF fault codes, Reset ECU after a new DPF is installed, and reset the EOLYS light message after adding the additive. MaxiCheck DPF is specially designed to carry out numerous functions on the Diesel Particulate Filter system. Based on AUTEL’s latest diagnostic platform, it will perform a forced regeneration, turn off the DPF light and reset ECU after the filter has been replaced, and reset the additive light after topping up.
Autel MaxiCheck DPF Reset Tool workable car models: Citroen, Peugeot, BMW, Renault, Alfa, Benz, EU Ford, Fiat, Jaguar, Lancia, Land Rover, MINI, Opel, Vauxhall, Ford, Chrysler, GM, AU Ford, Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, Scion, Toyota Where to get Autel MaxiCheck DPF? Please make sure you get from the authorized Autel dealer which provides original Autel MaxiCheck DPF with good quality and one year free update at auteltech site.
VPECKER Easydiag wireless and VPECKER Easydiag Bluetooth is proven to do DPF Forced Regeneration easily on e.g BMW and VW etc. (for detailed list, I will public when I have all collected), even CDP can’t even do that. Even with DieselMax installed I couldn’t force a DPF regen on any VWs or BMWs.
Check DPF saturation level in OPEL Vectra CDTi engines (Z19DTL, Z19DT, Z19DTH) using ELM327 BT interface. Note: some ELM327 devices and Android smartphones are not compatible with this app, please check another device if you can when found any problems connecting with yours engine's ECU. Please report any issues via email. THIS SOFTWARE IS DESIGNED TO READ ECU EXTENDED DIAGNOSTICS INFORMATION REGARDING DPF SATURATION IN OPEL CARS, SPECIALLY OPEL VECTRA CAR POWERED BY DIESEL ENGINES: Z19DTL, Z19DT, Z19DTH USING ELM327 BLUETOOTH DIAGNOSTIC INTERFACE VERSION 1.4b OR NEWER. THIS SOFTWARE MAY DAMAGE YOUR CAR, MAY CAUSE COMMUNICATION PROBLEMS ON INTERNALS CAR CAN BUS OR MAY STOP ENGINE FROM OPERATION OR MAY JUST NOT WORK PROPERLY OR NOT WORK AT ALL. DO NOT USE IT DURING DRIVING OR WHEN ENGINE IS RUNNING, PLEASE USE IT ONLY WHEN IGNITION IS ON AND WHEN ENGINE IS NOT RUNNING. AGAIN THIS SOFTWARE IS DESIGNED ONLY FOR OPEL OPEL CARS, SPECIALLY OPEL VECTRA POWERED BY DIESEL ENGINES: Z19DTL, Z19DT, Z19DTH.
THIS SOFTWARE MAY DAMAGE OTHER'S CARS INCLUDING NEWER OR OLDER OPEL CARS. YOU HAVE TO HAVE ELM327 BLUETOOTH OBD2 DIAGNOSTIC INTERFACE COMPATIBLE WITH 1.4b VERSION SPECIFICATION AND ANDROID SMARTPHONE CAPABLE OF RUNNING THIS APPLICATION AND CAPABLE OF CONNECTING WITH DESCRIBED ELM327 DIAGNOSTIC INTERFACE TO USE IT WITH SUPPORTED CARS.
You can also make optimized performance changes by editing, tuning and reprogramming cars ECU chip data (brain that controls how the car runs). This is typically called 'car tuning'. We make this possible for you by including 17 sensational car-manufacturer-approved software — that will connect to your vehicle as seen below: It's simple as hooking up ELM327 (USB, Bluetooth, WIFI) - and loading up TOAD OBD2 Reader/Scanner Software. What's more, TOAD will instantly show you existing problems and DTC 'check engine' faults often associated with the concerning 'malfunction indicator light' (MIL) on the dashboard. But our OBD diagnostic tool goes beyond traditional OBD2 scan tools or handheld OBD code readers. TOAD will tell you where the 'check engine' related fault is LOCATED - and how to fix it.
This is something you'll only find possible at mechanics. Now you're totally in control! In short, this kind of thorough OBD tool capability could save your car from potential future failures — ultimately saving you thousands of lost dollars, time and frustration before the vehicle brakes down unexpectedly. Worse yet, leaving you or your customer stranded!
FACT: TOAD on average extracts 50-90% more DTC 'check engine' fault codes and critical operations data. than Android/iOS apps (like Torque, OBD Car Doctor, DashCommand, ScanMaster, EOBD Facile), or common hand-held OBD2 scan tools. This is because TOAD is constantly improved by finest car engineers and technicians responsible for moving auto-industry standards forward.
Bottom line: This is the SAME type of software that's usually ONLY reserved for highest rated, registered and acclaimed car repair shops, manufacturers, serviceman and mechanics — which they pay upwards of $3,000 to obtain. And it's now available to you at fraction of the cost and with same capabilities as you'll see below.
TOAD ® is suitable for home car owners who want to save hundreds of dollars by doing it themselves. Or for professional car mechanics/service shops that need the latest cutting-edge detection, reading and ECU car chip tuning software. What's more — we offer unlimited and lifetime personal technical support, provided by experienced car mechanics.
This to ensure that you make maximum use from TOAD software for your vehicle(s). You'll be guided by expert step-by-step, simple-to-follow advice on anything that has to do with car repair, OBD diagnostics, ECU chiptuning/programming and 3rd party service recommendations. We breathe and live this stuff every day! So feel free to contact us. ? Eitherway — hopefully you'll start to notice as you keep reading below that we're authentic car experts — and the software you're about to own is absolutely world-class. Before continuing below, please FIRST CHECK if your vehicle(s) is supported in above link.
Generally — TOAD supports all: cars, trucks, vans, SUV's, MPV's, bikes, 4X4s, LCVs, in the world. Including powered by petrol, gas and diesel. (Hybrids are not supported). Only criteria for TOAD to work is your car must be made after a specific date.
You can find this date in above link. (Car make/model/manufacturer is NOT important. Because all cars by law are required to have OBD system incorporated.
All TOAD does is read, diagnose, modify and tune this system better then 99% of scanners on the market. If your car make is included in list below — it means TOAD will extract up to 15,000 possible data parameters related to it's Engine/Transmission — on any model. Acura. Aston Martin.
Audi. Bentley. BMW. Buick. Chevrolet. Cadillac. Chrysler.
Citroen. Daewoo. Dodge / Ram. Ferrari. Fiat.
Ford: 1. Geo. GM. GMC. Honda.
Holden: If your Holden is made prior to 1 Jan, 2006 — then only models supported are mentioned. And if it's made after 1 Jan, 2006 — then your Holden will work with TOAD and. Hummer. Hyundai. Infiniti.
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Isuzu. Jaguar. Jeep. Kia. Lamborghini. Land Rover. Lexus.
Lincoln: See Ford above. Exact same additional systems are supported on Lincoln. Lotus. Maserati. Mazda: See Ford above. Exact same additional systems are supported on Mazda. Mercedes-Benz.
Mercury: See Ford above. Exact same additional systems are supported on Mercury. Mini. Mitsubishi. Nissan. Oldsmobile. Opel.
Panoz. Peugeot. Pontiac. Porsche. Rambler. Renault.
Rolls Royce. SAAB. Saturn. Seat. Skoda.
Smart. SsangYong.
SS. Subaru. Suzuki. Tesla. Toyota.
Vauxhall. Volkswagen (VW). Volvo Still not sure?. TOAD™ is collection of car diagnostics and tuning software — jam packed inside an online downloadable membership. It gives you the same functions as original dealer car diagnostic tools (that are only available at car factories or repair shops and inaccessible to the public). Software is downloadable.
But if you include ELM327 USB / Bluetooth / WIFI connector in your order — we'll ship that to your door. Keep reading below to see what specifically it'll do for your car. Downloadable software are divided into 4 categories:. OBD II (also called OBD 2) Software.
OBD I Software. ECU Car Tuning and Editing Software. Other: Manuals, Emission Testing, Radio Decryptors, ECU Map Files All 4 categories cover absolutely every vehicle interest imaginable.
Whether you're a car hobbyist — or CEO of a major car repair shop who wants to double your income. In summary: You're going to take back control of your car's performance, power, longevity and health. All from comfort of your laptop/tablet. And with less time, money and effort compared to many similar competitor scan tools on the market. Already perform custom ECU map editing?
Own professional high-end diagnostic scan tools (like AutoBoss, Launch x431, SnapOn, Autel)? Consider yourself a proficient car repairer / engineer / technician? The answer is. TOAD does 99% of what high-end (in the $3,000+ range) automotive scan tools do.
Because it consists of multiple applications that cover and specialize in various purposes and car systems. Including ECU map editing software. So nothing is left out. In fact TOAD is more oriented towards expert car shops then home car owners. It depends on your skill set and your vehicle's problem. Whole point of our product is to help you figure out what service (if any) your vehicle requires. However only 1% of our customers ever complained about software's logistical use.
And data provided by the software is easy to figure out. Just Google the fault (MIL - malfunctioning indicator light) and you'll find hundreds of open solutions from people who've already solved it. In addition, TOAD also includes this 'check engine' DTC faults database in your online membership. Either way — whether you're a skilled technician or do-it-yourself'er — TOAD offers you unparalleled access to your vehicle's OBD II systems that you can quickly examine the test results and live sensor data. Our User Guides are packed with information that will help you understand engine management and how to use our tool to diagnose the problem. If you don't have the tools or mechanical skills to perform the work, then at least you'll be armed with the knowledge of what the problem really is.
Because a cheap scan tool will just reset the 'Check Engine/Service Engine' indicator. It won't dig deeper into the problem and tell you what's wrong and what can be done to fix it. Advanced OBD2 readers like TOAD can do this. Oriental magnetic yellow rare. And ignoring it until your next service is asking for trouble.
Because car could be undergoing a potentially hazardous issue with unexpected brake downs. You need the peace of mind that your vehicle is in top operating condition. Even if the problem is trivial, it could affect your vehicle's performance and that's costing you money. Supports many older OBD-I and all new OBD-II cars. Can also read modern vehicles with encrypted ECU's. Supports multiple protocols (controller modules) including:. CAN Bus.
SAE-J1850 (PWM and VPW). ISO-9141. ISO-14230 (KWP2000), and ISO-15765 (CAN). CAN 11bit and 29bit. ELM327 Supported OBD protocols:. OBD 1 & 2 (California ARB — applies to North/South America). EOBD (European OBD).
JOBD (Japanese OBD). ADR (Australian OBD).
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JDM (Asian OBD) Monitor real time data (while car is moving or when ignition is ON) like: Engine Temperature, O2 Value, RPM, Speedometer, LAC Value, Battery Voltage, Ignition Angle, etc. Analyze Fault Codes and get Solutions (Comprehensive OBD Code Analysis) ECU Chip Tuning, Correction, Remapping ECU Map Editor Contains 14,000 optimized car ECU map files.
Total Value: $28,500 Built-in database of over 15,000 fault code definitions (generic and manufacturer-specific codes for engine/transmission) Oxygen Sensor test results tab Full database built-in of generic fault code definitions. Configure your sensors' ranges, scaling value, audible alert triggers, units, and sampling rate Reset or Turn-off Warning & Service Lights Increase Your Cars Break Horse Power BHP HOT! Access Vehicles Electronics Enhanced OBD Decode Car Stereo Security Code. Reset Engine Management Light Clear trouble codes and turn off the MIL ('Check Engine' light) Check Transmission System CAL ID and CVN decoding Recording and Playback of Sensor Data. Read identification: Displays complete identification of control unit. EG: part number, software/hardware version, manufacturer, etc.
You can record and playback log files in real time (1ms logging accuracy). You can save and load your log files for offline analysis.
Read freeze-frame data. With Freeze Frames you will be able to retrieve a 'snap-shot' of sensor data when your ECU stores trouble codes. Don't wait until you have a problem with your vehicle. Use TOAD's Data Logger to record healthy engine parameters and use that data to help spot problems in the future.
Alerts feature produces an audible warning when a parameter value (coolant temperature, RPM, etc) goes outside normal operating range. The Vehicle Manager can keep track of multiple vehicles and owners simultaneously. No restrictions on how much data you can log and for how long English and Metric (SI) unit measurement systems supported. Export with real-time stamps for easy correlation with external data logs. View all 11 Inspection/Maintenance systems and Mode 6 data Read the vehicle's diagnostic trouble codes, live vehicle sensors ( including wide-band O2 sensors), actuate bi-directional controls, reset adaptations, and view inspection/maintenance system test results to quickly determine what service the vehicle requires.
OBD-II Shell Terminal Fast Update Refresh Rates. Older cars will do between 4 - 6Hz with generic OBDII. Later model vehicles that use CAN will show between 6 - 16Hz with generic OBDII. Continuous real time digital/graphic display of up to 90 Pids of power train data. Software has automatic discovery of correct COM port and factory set baud rate of scan tool. Eliminating manual time-consuming configuration of software.
It's install-and-ready! Read current Petrol/Gas//Diesel fuel consumption. (Liters per 100km/h, Miles per Gallon, Liter per hour, etc). Compatible with 12/24 Volt batteries. Read exact fault/condition of DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) & EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) — so you know what and how to fix it.
DPF and EGR regeneration. Regenerate, remove or disable DPF and/or EGR condition. This is crucial for all Diesel vehicles. Actuator Function: Let's you activate various vehicle components into test mode to verify they're actually working properly on physical level (not just what sensor picks up). While TOAD stands as the king of 'manufacturer-approved' professional all-in-one scan tools for both DIY car owners and mechanics — it's not the only package of it's kind.
So here's 3 major differences that separates TOAD from other car diagnostics OBD scanners and readers on the market. (Yes, we're aware there's thousands of OBD2 scan tools online. That's why we investigated hundreds of them and included functionality of the absolute BEST OBD2 diagnostic tools. Right inside TOAD! That way, you're not missing anything out.).
Professional Free Guides and Repair Manuals TOAD contains manuals that include thousands of pages on fault codes, patches, PCB layouts, pictures, schematics, repair instructions, etc The Manuals are all layed out in a step-by-step, structured order and easy to understand, even for an average home person. However it does have comprehensive sections for advanced mechanics/service repair shops. For example, each chapter shows trouble codes, their probable causes, their locations, and their solutions.
In addition, it also lists all the car models throughout the world to whom those codes, faults and solutions apply. So it doesn’t matter what car you own or dealing with, because it’s included with sections of dedicated material on it. Meaning, you’ll save time and frustration by quickly pin-pointing the problem and how to fix it using the most cost-effective way. If you're an auto mechanic or car shop, let's do a quick price comparison.
Last time I checked, buying a professional OBD scanner, car diagnostic tool or OBD code reader. That's constantly UPDATED and improved to have maximum compatibility with the latest OBD2 car standards — would set you back at least $3,000. Now imagine buying software for both reading car data PLUS car tuning / reprogramming car chip data. You're looking at least over $25,000. And there's no guarantee competitor software will 100% because you're dependent on ONE software only to do the job.
With TOAD, you'll have multiple software applications as form of backup. Each has it's own set of strengths.
Dpf Regeneration Software Obd2 Test
This exponentially increases your chances of successfully connecting to cars OBD2 diagnostics system and performing tuning. If you're a home car owner. Without TOAD — you can always take your car to a mechanic who is going to charge you at least $250+- p/h for a single typical job that TOAD can perform from comfort of your laptop. And what happens when you stack multiple jobs throughout the years of owning your car(s), for various issues it may encounter? We're talking about spending an average $20,000 with car mechanics, just to keep your car running! With TOAD, you'll significantly cut this cost down by up to 50-80%.
Because you'll be always armed with knowing what's really wrong. Hence no dealer can over-charge you for a broken part. This also puts you in power for negotiation to get the best possible price! With TOTAL OBD & ECU Auto Diagnostics ®, you win. Because I'm not going to charge you anywhere near the thousands of dollars that you'll ultimate save when you get a hold of this package. Especially when you account all the lost time and frustration you would've otherwise likely experienced without these powerful tools at your disposal.
I've decided to make this all-in-one software package available to you for only $899 $499 $397. Simply because we'd like to make this available to as many folks who are in need of cutting down on costs and saving time and overall headaches. Your investment is still minuscule to the costs you'll save as I've mentioned above. Plus this is a one-time investment for lifetime support. The world's most powerful, complete and comprehensive OBD/ECU diagnosis and remapping software package can be yours in the next 5 minutes by placing your order. Look, we've been in this industry for 15+ years.
We're not here to play around. Nor waste anyone's time and money. I've personally used almost every scanner and tuner for thousands of different vehicles throughout my career and working with very experienced colleagues. For that reason I can separate the good from the bad. The super-powerful, useful, genuine, compatible and reliable — from the generic, featureless and incompatible.
And TOAD is simply all the best stuff I've worked with and seen, put into 1 package. Add unlimited lifetime support to that, and you absolutely can't go wrong. Which is why I'm so confident that you too will find it extremely profitable, helpful, reliable and even fun to use. So you have 1 full year from today to try and play with it — and make up your mind if you want to keep it. And if for whatever reason it doesn't save you tons of time, effort, money and remove frustration in regards to car servicing, repair and tuning — then simply email me and I'll issue you a 100% refund on the spot. (All licenses will be remotely disabled and membership restricted on refund). 15-19 working days Inside the TOAD Online Membership, you'll find:.
Advanced, cutting-edge OBD software that only the highest rated and acclaimed car repair shops, manufacturers, serviceman and mechanics use. Software is easy and straightforward for any inexperienced home user.
Software also contains help files on how to use and operate. Manuals that cover car models and their fault codes. Including their probable causes, their locations, and their solutions. Your software is registered with a unique License Code for support purposes and registration of software. Retail Price: $397.00.
I urge you to take action right now and grab this package before we raise the price back to $397.00. It's discounted for a limited time because we're currently doing a marketing test at $127 vs. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this one. Sincerely, Alex Eisenberg Former Lead ECU Software Programmer at Toyota Motor Europe in Brussels, Belgium. BMW Series-3 Car Engineer at Headquarters at Munich, Germany.
Is your vehicle supported? Software updates are free for life. Meaning you'll always be up to date with new car releases. And never be stuck because you can always rely on our unlimited lifetime support. Remember, I'm putting all the bets and risk entirely on me. Because I'm gladly covering you with a unconditional, fair and honest 1 year money back guarantee.
Meaning if TOAD doesn't help you or you're not satisfied with it for whatever reason —simply contact us and we'll help you out. Click Here To Download TOAD In Next 60 Seconds!
And Get Started With One of Most Powerful and Complete Car Diagnostic and ECU Coding Kit's In the World.
Removing a Blocked Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Removing Common Rail Diesel DPFs can be a labour intensive job as some particulate filters are part of the catalyst and therefore part of the exhaust manifold or front pipe assembly. These are often fitted as close to the engine as possible to help maintain a high temperature and to assist fast warm up. V6 and V8 engined vehicles may have two DPFs and are often even more difficult to work on due to obstructions like steering racks, sub frames and turbochargers etc., restricting access to exhaust manifold nuts or bolts.
Older vehicles can present even more problems due to corrosion or seizure, in some extreme cases making it necessary for the garage to use oxy-acetylene burning equipment to remove the DPF. Eyeing-up the job – Refitting Where possible, CRD Performance will remove the DPF assembly, empty its contents and seam weld it back together so that it still appears fully intact. With the DPF now removed the engine management system still monitors its DPF pressure and temperature sensors to check they are present and working. Without this, the ECU will detect an error, switch on the engine management light and enter ‘limp’ mode, rendering the vehicle almost undriveable. Software Upgrade (aka DPF Deletion) If the Diesel Particulate Filter is physically removed from the exhaust system and the ECU not remapped to accept the changes, then sooner or later the engine management system will go into ‘limp’ mode, or LOS (Limited Operating Strategy).
When in limp mode the vehicle may have restricted power and, if fitted with an automatic transmission, it may even lock into top gear to limit acceleration. While monitoring ‘pre’, and on some vehicles ‘post’, DPF differential pressures, the vehicles’ management system monitors the current state of the DPFs and detects if one or more are present. Software DPF removal involves reprogramming the vehicle’s ECU to ignore any abnormally high or low readings from either the pre or post DPF differential pressure sensors. As previously mentioned, it is still necessary for all DPF pressure sensors to be present and working. Software changes can only be made to open up pressure monitoring parameters, preventing regeneration, not to ignore the sensors altogether. Software Power Upgrades Some customers, while having their ECUs re-programmed to delete the DPF, take the opportunity to have their engine re-mapped for additional power, better driveability and better fuel economy.
CRD Performance use several engine remapping companies for this purpose, who offer a discount if both programmes are carried out at the same time at our workshop in Bolton. DPF Emulators On some vehicles, software DPF deletion is not possible; this is especially true for some Japanese and Asian vehicles. CRD Performance now have available a full range of emulators which are programmed specifically for each vehicle make and model. Installing these does not involve interfering with the vehicle’s ECU since the emulator is instead wired into several of the engine sensors.
These units work by fooling the cars ECU into believing that the DPF is still present and maintained in a clean condition, therefore not requiring any regenerating, even though it has in fact been removed. Beware of cheap DPF Removals We frequently have vehicles brought to us in Bolton to correct a previous attempt to remove a DPF that has gone horribly wrong.
Often the vehicles are in an undriveable condition, stuck in ‘limp’ mode, with the engine management light on, yet no fault codes present. Be very aware of cheap quotes – you have been warned! “Cheap today, dear tomorrow”. CRD Performance Workshop Prices start from just £299.00 for most average size 4 cylinder vehicles but may be higher for some difficult to hook up to vehicles or larger capacity 5, 6 and 8 cylinder engines. To book your vehicle in for a DPF Regenerator clean please contact Joanne, Eddie or Vinny on the number below. If before booking your vehicle in for DPF cleaning, removal or repairs you require further information on the solutions we offer, or, have any specific questions you need answering then please first read our informative repair section below, if you still haven’t found the answer then call us or email us: Tel: 01204 529 529 Email: info @ crdperformance.com DPF Solutions Whatever the fault or cause of your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) related problems, CRD Performance offer a comprehensive diagnostic check and repair solution for most cars and light vans. From just an initial fault code read through the vehicles On Board Diagnostic (OBD) socket using a Scan Tool, to using other specialist test equipment i.e.
Rolling Road, Oscilloscope, Smoke Machine, Sensor Simulator, Coda Fuel Flow Tester etc. We are able to further test and accurately diagnose not just the symptom, but often the cause of any problems, we do it all. Most owners of late model (2009 onwards, some even older) turbocharged diesel vehicles, that are installed with a manufacturers DPF will sooner or later encounter one or more of the following concerns.
DPF Failure Symptoms The yellow DPF warning light symbol comes on more and more frequently or sometimes stays on and doesn’t go out at all. The yellow EML (Engine Management Light) intermittently comes on and go’s out but this may be happening more frequently but sometimes it stays on for longer than previously. The EML comes on and the vehicle sometimes defaults to an emergency limp home mode where the engine’s speed and power is restricted, re-starting the engine sometimes restores normal power and temporarily clears the EML. If the vehicle is an auto, the gearbox may sometimes seem to stick in a high gear when setting off and then not change through the gears as normal; once again, re-starting the engine may clear the EML and temporarily re-set the gearbox fault.
The engine may seem down on power and have a different sound or a change in its exhaust note; it may also seem less responsive than normal when revved hard and the vehicle stationary. The dashboard’s instantaneous MPG display may sometimes indicate a lower than normal reading, especially when travelling above about 50mph at steady engine speeds. This may also be accompanied by a change in engine note and excess smoking from the exhaust tailpipe; this may be because an active DPF regeneration is taking place. There is an excessive amount of smoke coming from the exhaust when the vehicle is driven hard or when you re-start the engine after switching it off when hot, but re-starting it soon after. Excessive smoke when re-starting may be an indication that active regeneration was taking place when the driver unexpectedly (to the cars’ ECU) switched off the engine leaving unburnt diesel inside the DPF. The oil level on the dipstick seems to be getting higher and higher every time you check it, even though you haven’t added any new oil.
During regeneration, some of the diesel injected through the engine on the exhaust stroke, by-passes the piston rings and ends up in the sump; this is why it is recommend the oil should be flushed and changed frequently and following repairs. The engine water temperature gauge reads higher than normal, this could be because the DPF is partially blocked and is restricting the hot exhaust gases from escaping. In extreme cases, an engine may initially start but then stall, or even not start at all; this could be due to a severely blocked DPF. Previous Solutions Until recently, it was normal practice for common rail diesel fuel injection specialists like CRD Performance and even some general repair garages to completely remove these troublesome filters. When carried out properly the DPF canister is emptied of its contents and re-fitted to the vehicle so it appears that the DPF is still in place to any MOT Testers and therefore satisfies current MOT legislation.
(A smoke emissions test will still however be carried out). Correct removal procedure also involves re-mapping the vehicles Electronic Control Unit (ECU) so it no longer checks that the diesel particulate filter is still in place. This re-mapping of the ECU disables any DPF regeneration functions and also cancels out any specific fault codes that would normally cause the EML to come on. Some less scrupulous Re-Mapping companies lacking proper software programming experience, often re-programme the ECU so that after DPF removal not just DPF fault codes are cancelled but often all other non-related codes are too. This procedure, whilst initially reducing some customer complaints, due to the EML no longer coming on, has the adverse effect of rendering the vehicles OBD system useless to alerting the driver of any other future faults being present. New Solutions Although still requested by some of our customers, DPF removal and the necessary software upgrade using a Quantum Tuning remap of their vehicles ECU is becoming less popular. Tuning and re-mapping for better performance and economy, using Quantum Tuning, is still a significant part of our business but we’ve definitely seen a change in trend; the emphasis now seems more towards diagnosing faults and recovering or even renewing restricted DPF’s.
Because renewal costs can sometimes run into thousands, especially on some newer or low volume executive vehicles, we are often asked if we offer any kind of preventative maintenance service to extend the vehicles DPF life span, well now we can. Attached to a Customer’s Vehicle All vehicles installed with a DPF will at some stage perform a passive or ECU controlled active cleaning cycle (regeneration) when their DPF becomes restricted or partially blocked. If this procedure fails, for whatever the reason, and the DPF becomes too blocked for an active regeneration to be effective, then a Technician, by using a vehicle specific scan tool may be able to initiate a safe and controlled forced regeneration of the vehicles DPF. If the soot content is too high, then, for safety reasons and the known risk of a DPF fire this procedure is not permitted in software on an ever increasing number of vehicles Manufacturers ECU’s. It is for this reason that taking your vehicle back to the Main Dealer is ever increasingly turning into a costly DPF replacement.
When a vehicle’s DPF is at this advanced stage of failure there are generally only four options we offer our customers. Replace the blocked DPF with a new or good condition used one. Remove the DPF canister contents and have the vehicles’ ECU re-mapped. Have the DPF chemically and thermally forced cleaned whilst still on the vehicle and without removal but using our DPF Regenerator.
Dyno-Clean, a strong non flammable DPF carbon cleaning solution is introduced through the running engine and left to soak inside the DPF; this is followed by several hard runs on our rolling road to break down and ignite the soot inside the DPF turning it into carbon dioxide. Deciding Which Option Before choosing what repair options are available we need to clarify with the vehicles owner that whatever the original faults or cause of the vehicles DPF failure, these still need to be correctly diagnosed and rectified unless in some cases where certain fault codes may be cancelled out as part of a re-map. Option 1 CRD Performance will replace failed or blocked diesel particulate filters but generally this would only be if either a forced regeneration or forced chemical DPF clean was initially carried out and not been successful.
Replacement new OEM filters can sometimes cost well in excess of £1000.00 whilst some used unit’s purchased from car breakers often cost around 50% of retail cost and have no guarantee of working until fitted to the vehicle. If a customer insists we replace the DPF without first attempting to clean it we will still do this although we’ll advise them against this. There are for some popular mass produced vehicles non-genuine aftermarket, low cost copy DPF’s available but CRD Performance are still a bit wary of how effective these are or have any experience as to how long they might last or even how many regens they’ll survive.
We are sometimes offered more in scrap value for old units than what a new copy DPF replacement unit costs, which must tell you something about the differences in materials used in the vehicle manufacturers original filters. Option 2 We also offer DPF removal on most vehicles, however, some may be difficult and costly to remove due corrosion and seizure of fastenings or just because they are so inaccessible and may even involve in extreme cases removing the engine. For more details on DPF removal please read our dedicated section from the home page.
Option 3 CRD Performance are now able to offer their customers the latest and ultimate solution in cleaning and recovering restricted or partially blocked DPF’s. In order to burn off heavy carbon and soot build up inside the filter a stable temperature of at least 500 degrees must be reached and maintained for anywhere between 20 minutes and an hour. The vehicles own forced regeneration procedure, enabled by using a scan tool, allows unburnt diesel to pass through the engine on its exhaust stroke, or be injected into the exhaust front pipe using an additional fuel injector, so it finds its way into the DPF. The ECU then normally raises the engine speed and controls the amount of diesel whilst it ignites and burns inside the filter in an attempt to burn off the soot. If the Technician doesn’t have the necessary scan tool or if the vehicles ECU won’t allow this or if there is a fault and all conditions required by the ECU to carry out regeneration are not met then regeneration will not happen. By using our DPF Regenerator we are able carry out a similar procedure but without any intervention necessary from the vehicles own ECU. Even where we do not have the correct scan tool available to communicate with the ECU we can still read and monitor DPF temperatures using other test equipment whilst we perform a controlled high temperature forced regeneration.
The main differences between the two methods are that instead of using just diesel, a chemical cleaning fluid is used which is probably far better for the job, the vehicle manufacturer only uses diesel for convenience and to save cost. One main advantage using the Regenerator method is that the fluid has a cleaning effect on all of the combustion chambers, the intake manifold and valves, the turbocharger’s variable vanes (these are often prone to sticking) and even the EGR valve (exhaust gas recirculating valve). The Regenerator connects to the engines throttle body, downstream of any sensors or intercooler, it controls the air flow whilst administering, under high pressure, a precisely metered jet spray of DPF cleaning fluid. This fluid is semi-combustible so most of it passes unburnt through the engine and deep into the core of the DPF where it soon begins to saturate and break down the heavy soot deposits. Any contaminates dislodged from the engines intake manifold, turbo vanes, valves and combustion chambers etc.
Act like a fuel and quickly ignite inside the DPF, causing a rapid rise in EGT’s (exhaust gas temperatures). The Operator, by varying the engine’s speed using a throttle pedal controller, can monitor and control the temperature inside the DPF by further regulating air flow and the amount of cleaning fluid injected. The first half of the process involves injecting about 4 litres of cleaning fluid through the engine, therefore saturating the DPF, the second stage involves raising the engine speed higher still so that all of the fluid combusts inside of the DPF. It’s in this second stage that the highest DPF core temperatures are reached and when most of the accumulated soot is burnt turning it into Carbon Dioxide and ash.
Some vehicles, with heavily contaminated DPFs, may benefit further still by having their vehicles put through a Dyno-Clean session on the rolling road. As no further cleaning chemicals are required, just time and use of the dyno, customers are welcome to negotiate any further costs with CRD Performance at the time of booking. Scan Tool Option 4: DPF Dyno-Clean Our Dyno-Clean DPF service is offered as a low cost cleaning and maintenance alternative to the DPF Regenerator cleaning process. This procedure can only be carried out if the engine is still in a normal running state and not in any limp mode, sometimes it is possible to clear any DPF fault codes causing the limp mode and then carry out the Dyno-Clean.
The process involves introducing about a litre of non flammable carbon dissolving chemical directly into the DPF or through the running engine. This fluid is introduced whilst the engine is hot and left to soak inside the DPF for about 20 minutes after which several high speed dyno runs are performed. During these runs a much greater than normal exhaust gas flow is reached along with much higher DPF core temperatures that could never be achieved during even harsh on the road driving. This occurs because a much higher and constant engine load is held and the vehicle is stationary without any wind cooling effect on the underside of the vehicle. Results are generally good after this clearout and the driver will notice a difference in performance, not just in overall power but in how much more responsive and crisp the engine feels. A further option during this procedure is to add a can of BG Products fuel system cleaner to the tank, as the engines injectors are held wide open for longer time periods during the Dyno run, best cleaning results are achieved. Prices for the Dyno-Clean start from £150.00 for single DPF vehicles.
DFP Dyno-Clean: Insignia – Part 1. Success Rate And Guarantee Although we cannot guarantee that in all cases the DPF will be close to 100% clean, we do believe it is the best cleaning option currently available and much better than the vehicles own built in regeneration. If we either cannot complete for any reason the cleaning cycle or if we find that the clean hasn’t unblocked the DPF we will only charge the customer two thirds of the agreed fee.
It may be that although we’ve successfully cleaned the DPF it is damaged internally due to age and mileage or that someone has previously steam cleaned it and caused irreparable damaged the substrate. When this happens CRD Performance will take a sympathetic view and try to agree a happy compromise for both parties. DPF Regens With And Without Diagnostic Charges Before we carry out the DPF Regenerator process we must first carry out our own initial diagnostic tests for which there is a charge of normally £80.00. Any further necessary repairs or oil and filter changes will also be at additional costs, sometimes it may not be possible however to quote for further repairs if the vehicle comes to us with its DPF blocked and is not fully diagnosable until the filter has been cleaned. We also provide our DPF Regenerator cleaning service on its own and without any diagnostic tests or repairs. It may be that a vehicle is brought to us that we don’t have the necessary tools to properly diagnose and repair it in which case we will offer a clean only service.
Some vehicle owners may wish to use CRD Performance for the DPF Regenerator clean only and then take it to their usual garage for further diagnosis and repairs; we’re fine with that too. The Regeneration Process Regeneration is the term used to describe cleaning of the DPF. During this process the ‘wet and sooty’ particulate matter is subjected to further combustion inside the DPF itself. Surface temperatures inside the DPF can exceed 600 Degrees Celsius, at which point the soot turns into a hot white ash. Some of this ash is blown out of the exhaust whilst some is retained inside the core of the DPF.
There are 3 methods diesel particulate filters can be regenerated: Passively, actively or forced. Passive regeneration This type of regeneration takes place automatically but only if the vehicle is used often and for medium to long journeys.
What also helps is if the vehicle is driven hard where the DPF benefits from plenty of hot exhaust gas flow. Brisk driving helps generate higher exhaust gas temperatures with the added benefit of forcing some of the ash waste out of the exhaust system.
Active regeneration If the engine management system detects that the vehicle isn’t being used in a manner that allows passive regeneration or it detects a higher than normal DPF exhaust back-pressure reading, it should initiate active regeneration. This function occurs automatically but only when certain conditions are met. During active regeneration diesel is injected into the engine on the exhaust stroke which allows it to pass unburned through the open exhaust valves and into the DPF, where it combusts using the excess abundance of unused oxygen. During this forced regeneration temperatures in the core of the DPF can exceed 600 Degrees Celsius. Active regeneration normally occurs whilst the vehicle is being driven at steady motorway cruising speeds and may last around 30 minutes before the cycle is complete.
The problem however, is how the engine management system can ever know how long the vehicle is going to be driven at steady motorway cruising speeds (and of course it can’t), which can lead to difficulties in initiating active regeneration. It is not unusual see excessive smoke being emitted from the tailpipe of a diesel vehicle that is being driven at speed during regeneration or for the owner to observe a dramatic decrease in the instantaneous MPG during this process. Sometimes, if a vehicle is stopped and re-started during regeneration, interrupting the DPF regeneration process, excess smoke can be seen coming from the tailpipe. Some, but not all, vehicles will alert the driver with a dash warning light if the DPF regeneration cycle is taking place or, more importantly, has not been completed for whatever reason. Should this occur the driver must refer to the owner’s manual. Forced Regeneration If both passive and active regeneration attempts have failed and, as a result exhaust back-pressure has become excessive, the vehicle will soon go into ‘limp mode’, lose most of its engine power and be almost impossible to drive. When this happens the only option left is a forced regeneration. This process involves using a Main Dealer level diagnostic Scan Tool, connected to the vehicles 16 pin OBD (on board diagnostic) socket, which instructs the vehicle’s engine management system to regenerate the DPF.
This procedure is sometimes programmed by the vehicle manufacturer to ideally take place while the vehicle is stationary but, more often than not, during a long high-speed drive cycle, which in cold conditions makes ideal regeneration temperatures difficult to achieve. On many occasions this forced method of re-generation is disabled for safety reasons, even with the Dealer level scan tool, and when this happens it is normal practice to have the DPF replaced. Alternatively, some common rail diesel specialists, such as CRD Performance, may be able to initiate a forced regeneration using methods not commonly used (or known); one of which involves using a Rolling Road. Sometimes regeneration fails to recover a blocked DPF, either because the material inside the unit has melted or disintegrated or it’s just too badly blocked.
DPF Cleaning Where DPF regeneration has failed or not been possible due to excessive soot contamination there is a further option of a chemical clean to be carried out. This process involves using several expensive chemicals and the procedure must be carried out exactly in accordance with the fluid manufacturer’s instructions and takes about 3 to 4 hours. Following this cleaning process a full regeneration still has to be carried out to completely remove and burn off any chemicals from inside the DPF. The downside to this is that it is not always successful and is a very expensive process of which the customer will have to pay for.
Successful Regeneration If regeneration has worked there are now two options to consider; either to leave the DPF in-place or have it removed. The correct decision must take into account the vehicle’s intended use and driving style. If the vehicle is to be used for short, stop-start journeys, with few frequent, long distance runs, then removal is probably the best option.
If it is likely that the vehicle will be driven hard, with frequent, long journeys then it may be better to leave the DPF in-place, to save the cost of removal. It may be that you’ve recently purchased the vehicle and the previous owners driving style was responsible for blocking the filter, while yours might not. Introduction to Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) Diesel particulate filters have been used by some vehicle manufacturers for several years now, but only since about 2009 has it been mandatory for all vehicles to be fitted with them to help achieve strict new Euro 4, 5 and 6 emissions. These filters can often be confused with catalytic converters or silencer boxes since they look similar and are usually incorporated as part of the exhaust front pipe near to the engine. Their purpose is to trap diesel particulate matter, or soot, as it’s often referred to.
All diesel engines smoke under hard acceleration, especially when cold, due to the entire diesel not being burnt. Even with the major advances in high pressure common rail diesel systems not all of the diesel combusts and this can be seen as black smoke coming from the vehicles tailpipe where a DPF isn’t used. If you observe a diesel vehicle that’s accelerating and there isn’t any smoke being emitted it’s more than likely fitted with a DPF. Sooner or later, depending mainly on driving style or conditions, these filters become restricted or blocked but vehicle manufacturers have taken steps to help prevent this from happening. Periodically these filters need to be cleaned or emptied but without removing them from the vehicle, this process is often referred to as DPF Regeneration. The engine management system monitors the DPF’S soot fill percentage and decides when regeneration is necessary.
As well as monitoring the DPF’S back pressure to detect a partially blocked filter, some ECU’s are programmed to carry out regeneration based on mileage covered or hours driven. Fitting a New DPF Having found that a forced regeneration or chemical clean of the DPF has been unsuccessful, some people who wish to keep their vehicle to the manufacturers original specification, may chose to fit a replacement unit. Some DPFs however, incorporate a catalytic converter within the same unit and, as a result, can cost well in excess of £1000.00 (such DPFs have even been known to cost up to £4000.00 for some vehicles).
The cause of failure must still therefore be diagnosed, to prevent the subsequent failure of any replacement DPF unit. Any necessary repairs should then carried out and, lastly, the car’s computer reset so that it knows a new DPF has been fitted.
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