DPF Filters

Diesel engines offer better fuel efficiency and torque than gas engines, which is why many people choose them for towing, hauling, industrial use, and everyday driving. Unfortunately, these engines also emit higher levels of air pollutants, which is where a diesel particulate filter (DPF) comes in handy. 

What Is a DPF Filter? 

A DPF filter is a heavy-duty filter in your diesel engine exhaust system that collects and stores exhaust soot to make your engine’s emissions cleaner. If you’re driving a commercial truck, an RV, or a truck with a diesel engine made after 2007, it should have a DPF filter. 

How Does a DPF Filter Work?

Most DPF models we offer at Truck Pipes USA are made of ceramic material, including cordierite or silicon carbide. These filters capture soot and other particulates from your engine exhaust before they can reach the tailpipe.

On long, high-speed drives, the exhaust heats up enough to burn off the soot buildup in a process called regeneration. Even so, you should inspect your DPF and replace it regularly. 

How Often Do I Need a DPF Filter Replacement? 

Ignoring DPF replacement as part of regular maintenance can lower your fuel efficiency and engine power. It can also damage other parts of your exhaust system if left unchecked. 

We recommend changing your DPF filter with parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) every 75,000 miles or once per year. We offer a wide range of OEM-recommended parts for recreational and commercial vehicles of all sizes, makes, and models. 

How Do I Know if My DPF Filter Is Bad? 

If you maintain your exhaust system regularly and replace your DPF filter, it should last up to 150,000 miles. But it can break. Look for these signs that you need to replace your diesel exhaust filter: 

• Warning light: Many diesel vehicles have a dashboard light that will alert you to a DPF filter failure. You may also see a “check engine” light. 
• Diminished power: If you have a hard time maintaining speed or accelerating, particularly when going uphill, your DPF filter might be clogged. 
• Decreased fuel efficiency: When your DPF filter is clogged or broken, your engine has to work harder, and it consumes more fuel. 
• Black exhaust: If your exhaust looks darker than normal, or if it looks black, it could mean your DPF filter isn’t catching all the soot. 

What Causes Premature DPF Filter Failure?

Making short trips at slow speeds can cause your DPF to fail faster than normal, because you’re not generating enough heat to start regeneration. 

You may also experience problems with your DPF filter if you’re using lower-quality fuel or skipping maintenance.

How Do I Choose the Right DPF Filter? 

If it’s time to replace your DPF filter, consult your owner’s manual. If that’s not handy, let us help. Truck Pipes USA carries DPF filters for commercial vehicles, farm equipment, diesel engine trucks, and some diesel engine cars. We can help you choose the right model for your engine. 

Our DPF filters are made of high-quality materials to help boost your vehicle's performance and reduce emissions.