DPF & EGR Problems

Don’t remove emission reduction systems!!
We are frequently asked about Diesel Particulate filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve problems.

We can offer some advice.

WARNING! The DPF, EGR and AdBlue devices are fitted to your vehicle to reduce poisonous emissions and the law requires that they are not removed.

THE PROBLEM…

The problem is that these devices can fail. The EGR and DPF can get blocked up, particularly if the vehicle is not regularly driven at cruising speeds or above. The first sign of this is a warning light illuminated on the dashboard.

OUR POSITION…

We DON’T offer removal/deletion of EGR valves, Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) or AdBlue systems because to do so will result in the following: –
It would make your car no longer road legal. It is an offence under the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (Regulation 61a(3)1 to use on the road, a vehicle which no longer complies with the air pollutant emissions standards it was designed to meet. (Even if it meets the MOT standard.)
It would result in high levels of harmful emissions such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter and hydrocarbons, all of which cause serious respiratory problems and environmental issues.

THE SOLUTION?…

Professional cleaning of your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)! There are a number of professional DPF cleaning providers. One local company you could try is Shephards Motors, Coombs Rd. They will remove your DPF in preparation for a multi-stage cleaning process (off site) and then reinstal it – fully cleaned. You can contact them using the link below below.

Shephards Motors – DPF Cleaning

Be warned! some companies will remove the core from a blocked DPF and provide a remap to program out all DPF functions from the ECU. We always advise customers against this because it is illegal to use your vehicle on the road if the DPF has been removed. New stricter MOT rules come into force in May 2018 and include much more stringent testing of the DPF. If the DPF is suspected of being removed or tampered with, the vehicle will fail. Also, the vehicle will fail if any visible smoke is emitted.

The Right Engine Oil…

You should always use ‘low SAPS oil for your diesel engine if you have a DPF. This type of oil reduces the amount of ash which builds up in the DPF. Trying to save money by using cheaper oil can cost you dearly in the long run. And of course make sure you use the correct grade of oil. Check your manual.

So how can you keep your DPF clean and trouble free?

Here are our 4 top tips…

1. DRIVE AT SPEED OCCASIONALLY
DPF regenerations can only happen when road speed, engine RPM and engine temperature are above a certain minimum. Engine up to normal temperature, 2000 – 3000 RPM for at least 20 miles. Without these conditions, DPF regeneration will not take place. If you do a lot of slow driving, try and mix in some faster and less congested roads to maximise the chance of a regeneration. Some models need the fuel level at least quarter full.
Check your owner’s manual or ask the dealer how fast you need to drive, for how long and at what RPM to allow a regeneration cycle to complete.

2. USE THE RIGHT ENGINE OIL
Try to use the oil recommended by the manufacturer. Always check what grade of oil is needed, (e.g. SAE 5W50, etc) and you should specifically use low SAPS oil which is low in Sulphated Ash. This is a by-product of diesel combustion can block the DPF.

3. CHECK YOUR EGR VALVE
The EGR valve is important for the correct operation of the DPF. They can become stuck and this can lead to problems with the DPF. Check it’s clean and opening and closing freely.

4. BUY THE RIGHT TYPE OF CAR
OK, you’ve got the car you’ve got but when you next change it, consider if you tend to do lots of short journeys or spend a lot of time on stop start driving. A diesel car might not be the best choice for you. If you’re concerned about getting good MPG then some of the modern direct injection petrol engines have drastically closed the fuel economy gap between petrol and diesel engines.

What our clients have to say

Nissan X-Trail

"Hi Jeremy, just thought I would write to say how pleased we are with the remap of our x-trail. We had the remap done for better performance when towing and it’s done the job brilliantly. Towed the caravan today and on the hills, where earlier we would have had to change down gears to get enough power to climb up. It sailed up in 6th and still wanted to accelerate. Also, we noticed a difference in economy. Before the remap, the miles to empty would drop dramatically but we gained some miles today. There is also a noticeable difference without the van on the back. Thanks for a great job and will be recommending you to others." - Beckie, Willenhall

Mini Cooper S

"Thanks for sorting the mini out for me. Highly recommend Halesowen Engine Remapping to anyone. Great service, especially coming out to my house. Much better for me. Thanks again." - Darren, Birmingham

Mercedes 5 tonne Sprinter

"This remap has made such a difference! Brilliant service. Very smooth and feels like I'm driving an empty van. Superb result!" - Andy, Enfleet

Jaguar XF-R

"Many thanks for your work on Friday. I am delighted to say that power delivery is smoother and engine note on acceleration has a nicer "growl" to it. In addition, on the cruise home, I set the cruise control to the same speed that I came up at and got just under 2 mpg more! I will sing your praises to others." - Martin, Cardiff

Range Rover Evoque

"The remap carried out via Halesowen Engine Remap has totally transformed my Range Rover Evoque Si4 Dynamic Lux. When I first purchased the car, it had good power, but I always felt I could do with more. But wow! What a difference you have made to my car. It now accelerates like a scolded cat. It is brilliant around town, fantastic on country lanes and fabulous on the motorway. It is also more relaxed due to the added power. Unquestionably a great investment. You have made an excellent car into a truly fabulous car. Can't quite believe it. Many thanks." - Nick, Staffordshire

VW T5 Camper Van

T5 Remapped yesterday , like having a new van , even with a full camper conversion in the rear the acceleration uplift is amazing. Would definitely recommend Jeremy, he was very prompt in communicating and explaining the process and answered any questions and the whole thing was great value for money.
Andrew, Dudley

Ford Transit 2.4TDCi

My Mk6 transit transporter now drives like new now.
Thanks
Malcolm, Kidderminster

Audi Q5 2.0TDi

Excellent service. Has improved performance of my Q5 greatly and would highly recommend. Customer care & follow up service superb.
John, Halesowen

Porsche Cayenne 3.0TDi

Totally impressed with the new performance of the Porsche Cayenne. Jeremy is a charming and professional guy.
Keith, Halesowen

Kia Sportage

Absolutely a fantastic company. Made me feel at ease about all aspects of remapping my vehicle, a kia Sportage 2.0 diesel. Power is mind blowing compared to factory and low down torque well it pulls like a train now feel confident that this company will treat you with care.
Colin, Cradley Heath

Transit Custom

Brilliant service! Had Jeremy (Great guy) come to my house to remap my for Transit Custom (09). The difference is outstanding! Some much more go and even better better mpg! 100% using again.
Tom, Birmingham