Mercedes C-Class Diesel Particulate Filter DPF

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on Mercedes C-Class diesel vehicles captures harmful soot particles from exhaust gases. It burns off the soot by high-temperature regeneration (450-600°C), reducing emissions by 80-90% to meet strict Euro 6 anti-pollution standards.

The DPF uses a ceramic filter made of silicon carbide to trap soot particles after the catalytic converter.

• Passive regeneration: At temperatures of 550-600°C on highways, excess oxygen with catalytic converter metals burns soot without driver intervention. Fuel additives can lower this to around 450°C.
• Active regeneration: In city driving or low temperatures, the ECU injects extra fuel to heat the catalytic converter, burning soot in about 15-20 minutes. Pressure differential sensors monitor this process.
• Residual ash: Burned soot leaves ashes that accumulate and cannot be removed simply like soot.

These processes maintain DPF function and keep emissions low.

Signs of a clogged or malfunctioning DPF include:

• Engine warning light illuminated with fault codes such as P2463 indicating filter clogging (soot above 50g detected).
• Loss of engine power, often linked to a faulty N75 valve controlling regeneration and damaged catalytic converters.
• Ineffective forced regenerations, especially in city driving, requiring longer periods at high engine speeds (2200-2500 rpm) to clear soot.

Regular diagnostics are recommended to check sensors and valves involved in DPF management.

DPF maintenance methods include:

• Manual Regeneration: Drive on highway for 15-20 minutes at load; ECU initiates regeneration if differential pressure is high.
• Chemical Cleaning Without Removal: Products like Xenum DPF Cleaner can be injected via the pressure sensor, followed by driving to expel residue. Effective on specific engines such as OM651.
• Cleaning by Removal: Physically removing soot and ash if accumulation exceeds 50g, followed by diagnostics to confirm reduced clogging.
• Replacement: Recommended only in cases of extreme clogging due to the high cost and premium ceramic materials used.
• Diagnostics: Use OBD tools to check soot levels, pressure differences, sensor and valve function.

Avoid short trips that prevent passive regeneration, which can reduce DPF life.

Replacement is a relatively easy procedure at difficulty level "FACILE". It typically includes:

• Removing the old, heavily clogged DPF unit.
• Installing a new high-quality DPF made of silicon carbide ceramic and stainless steel casing.
• Adding fuel additives if applicable to lower combustion temperature for efficient regeneration.

After replacement, ensure that related sensors and the catalytic converter are checked or replaced to maintain system integrity and performance.

Proper regeneration prevents soot buildup that can block the filter and cause serious issues such as:

• Engine limp mode activation due to high soot load detected by sensors.
• Decreased engine power and fuel efficiency.
• Damage to other exhaust components including catalytic converters.

Regeneration ensures the filter actively burns trapped soot to retain vehicle emission compliance and engine performance.

Effective DPF diagnostics include:

• On-board diagnostics (OBD) scan tools to read fault codes such as P2463.
• Checking differential pressure sensors before and after the filter to assess soot load.
• Verifying operation of regeneration control valves, like the N75 valve.
• Inspecting related sensors and catalytic converters for faults leading to incomplete regeneration.

Regular diagnostic checks help avoid costly repairs and maintain compliance with emission regulations.

Quality DPFs for Mercedes vehicles are manufactured using advanced silicon carbide ceramics and stainless steel casings, certified to meet manufacturer and European regulations.

• They provide superior durability and performance with a 3-year warranty up to 100,000 km.
• Manufacturers like Krosfou provide original quality products with high-performance monoliths and strict certifications.
• Ordering directly from reputable suppliers ensures you receive genuine products that fully match your vehicle’s requirements.

Always ensure professional installation and adherence to manufacturer guidelines to maintain warranty and optimal engine performance.