Ford Fiesta Diesel Particulate Filter DPF

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on the Ford Fiesta is an essential component located after the catalytic converter and before the exhaust silencer. It is designed to capture up to 99% of fine soot particles from the diesel engine exhaust to reduce pollution and health risks. The filter contains a ceramic body with thousands of microscopic channels that trap soot while allowing exhaust gases to pass through.

The DPF captures soot particles during normal driving but must regularly regenerate to burn off the accumulated soot and avoid clogging. There are three types of regeneration:

• Passive regeneration: Occurs automatically at high engine load and speeds (e.g., motorway driving) when exhaust temperatures exceed 500-600°C, converting soot into CO2, water vapor, and ash.
• Active regeneration: Triggered by the engine control unit every 500-700 miles when sensors detect increased back pressure. This process raises exhaust temperature through controlled fuel post-injection and exhaust valve adjustments to burn accumulated soot.
• Forced or manual regeneration: Performed by a Ford dealer with diagnostic tools if heavy soot accumulation (40-50g) or a warning light is present, to clear a heavily blocked filter.

Some DPFs also use additives to lower soot combustion temperature by about 100°C, helping regeneration during lower load conditions.

Common symptoms of DPF malfunction include:

• Illuminated engine or DPF warning light on the dashboard.
• Reduced engine power caused by exhaust gas restriction.
• Increased exhaust back pressure, potentially harming engine performance over time.

If these symptoms occur, prompt professional diagnosis and cleaning or regeneration are advised to avoid damage and costly repairs.

Recommended maintenance includes:

• Regularly driving at higher engine speeds, such as motorway journeys, to support passive regeneration.
• Having the DPF professionally cleaned and regenerated when needed, ideally at a Ford dealership or specialist garage to ensure proper handling of sensors and residual soot.
• Using fuel additives only if compatible and confirmed suitable by your vehicle specifications.
• Following the vehicle manufacturer’s advice regarding oil and additive changes.

Avoid frequent short trips where the engine may not reach optimal operating temperature, as this can prevent effective soot burning and clog the filter prematurely.

Cleaning the DPF yourself is generally not recommended. Professional cleaning involves:

• Using appropriate chemical products injected into the DPF while the engine runs at idle to loosen soot deposits.
• Performing forced regeneration with diagnostic tools to burn off loosened soot and residual ash.
• Ensuring no residues remain on sensors or inside the engine compartment to avoid damage.

Professional cleaning is less costly than replacement and is the safest way to extend the DPF's lifespan.

The lifespan of a DPF depends on driving style, maintenance, and conditions. Generally, a DPF can last up to 100,000 miles or more if properly maintained.

• Frequent short urban journeys prevent effective regeneration and shorten the DPF life.
• Regular motorway drives at sustained speed and RPM help ensure continuous and effective regeneration of the filter.
• Ignoring warning lights and not performing necessary regeneration or cleaning can lead to premature clogging and damage.

Using certified parts like Krosfou’s original DPF ensures reliability and optimal performance backed by a 3-year warranty under proper use.

Neglecting a blocked DPF can lead to:

• Severe reduction in engine power and efficiency due to exhaust back pressure.
• Increased fuel consumption and harmful emissions, negatively impacting the environment.
• Damage to the engine and turbocharger components over time.
• Illumination of warning lights and potential engine entering limp mode for protection.

It is crucial to address DPF issues promptly through cleaning or replacement to avoid high repair costs and maintain vehicle performance.

To keep your Fiesta’s DPF system effective, consider the following tips:

• Drive regularly at speeds and load conditions that allow the DPF to reach its operating temperature for passive regeneration.
• Respond promptly to DPF warning lights and have active or forced regenerations performed by professionals.
• Use quality diesel fuel and maintain the engine and exhaust system according to Ford's recommendations.
• Have scheduled checks to monitor the condition of sensors, catalytic converters, and the DPF itself.

By following these guidelines, you help reduce particulate emissions and ensure compliance with emission standards.