Mercedes GLC-Class Diesel Particulate Filter DPF (2015-2022)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on the Mercedes GLC-Class (mainly diesel engines, also in direct injection petrol engines) is an exhaust post-treatment component designed to capture harmful particles such as soot, hydrocarbons, and sulfates produced during combustion. Its primary function is to reduce pollutant emissions. The DPF is located after the catalytic converter and uses a ceramic structure in diesel models. It requires periodic regeneration to burn off accumulated soot.

The DPF traps particulate matter at low temperatures, especially in city driving or low load conditions where soot accumulates. Regeneration is the process of burning off these stored particles to prevent clogging:

• Passive regeneration: At high exhaust temperatures (550-600°C), typically on highways, soot is naturally burned off. This occurs more easily in petrol engines due to hotter gases.
• Active regeneration: If passive regeneration is insufficient, the engine control unit injects extra fuel to heat the catalytic converter and raise exhaust temperature to about 450°C, enabling soot combustion.
• Practical advice: Driving for 24-26 minutes at 60-80 km/h helps optimal regeneration and ash removal.

This process complements optimized combustion and fuel management to reduce particulate emissions harmful to health.

DPF clogging is a primary issue, especially in diesel GLC models like the 250d from 2020 onwards. Symptoms include:

• Loss of engine power and visible smoke during acceleration.
• DPF warning light on the dashboard and the vehicle entering limp mode.
• Increased fuel consumption and poor regeneration caused by short trips or city driving without adequate regeneration time.

Example: The 2020 Mercedes GLC Diesel may show engine weakness and smoke due to a blocked DPF.

Replacing the DPF typically involves removing the exhaust line and fitting a new filter, sometimes recalibrating the ECU. Key points include:

• Average part price: approximately €543 inclusive of VAT.
• Labour time: around 2 hours on average; for the GLC 300e 4Matic 320hp, about 1 hour 20 minutes.
• Total estimated cost (parts + labour): €707 to €919 inclusive of VAT.
• Procedure complexity: generally considered easy with available illustrated guides and tutorial videos.

Professional tools and technical manuals ensure precise replacement and optimal functionality.

To extend the life of your DPF and avoid clogging:

• Avoid frequent short trips and city driving without reaching exhaust operating temperature.
• Regularly perform longer drives at moderate speeds (60–80 km/h for 24-26 minutes) to enable passive regeneration.
• If equipped, monitor and maintain additive levels used to lower regeneration temperature.
• Use OBD scanner diagnostics to check exhaust backpressure and initiate DPF cleaning or decarbonization if needed.
• Follow servicing intervals and keep engine oil and spark plugs (for petrol models) in good condition.

DPF replacement is typically required every 100,000 to 200,000 kilometers depending on driving conditions.

During regular servicing of your Mercedes GLC, certified technicians will:

• Inspect the condition and functionality of the DPF system.
• Check sensors related to the DPF such as pressure and temperature sensors.
• Ensure the catalytic converter and associated exhaust parts are performing correctly.
• Use diagnostic scanners to detect any fault codes related to the DPF and regeneration process.

However, DPF cleaning or active regeneration may not always be included and can require additional service interventions if the vehicle’s drive cycles have been predominantly short or city-based.

Yes, drivers can often initiate or aid the DPF regeneration process by carefully following these recommendations:

• Drive at a steady speed of about 60-80 km/h for 24-26 minutes on an open road or highway.
• Avoid short trips that prevent the engine and exhaust from reaching the required temperature for regeneration.
• If available, some vehicles or OBD tools provide an option to trigger active regeneration via the ECU.
• Note that forced regeneration should be done carefully under safe driving conditions, following vehicle manuals or dealer advice.

In case of persistent DPF clogging or faults, seek professional cleaning or replacement services.

When purchasing a DPF for your Mercedes GLC-class, consider the following:

• Use only high-quality, brand-new DPFs manufactured in Europe, made from stainless steel (e.g., INOX 409) and certified to meet or exceed OEM standards.
• Ensure compatibility using your vehicle’s VIN or engine details to match the correct DPF model, especially considering catalytic converter integration.
• Look for products with technical certifications such as TÜV SÜD and European E24-103R approval for assured quality and regulatory compliance.
• Factor in shipping time and potential additional fees based on delivery region and product size.
• Professional installation is recommended to maintain warranty validity and ensure proper ECU recalibration.

Krosfou offers original, high-performance DPFs with a 3-year warranty and free return policy within 30 days, supporting professional service and environmental responsibility.