In 2007, diesel particulate filters (DPFs) were introduced for many medium and heavy-duty OEMs in the North American market. These filters were the optimal solution that the manufacturers came up with to meet the government-mandated emission standards.
The diesel particulate filter physically captures the diesel particulate matter and soot preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. Over time, the filter will fill up with soot and the aftertreatment servicing for the diesel particulate filters have also become a necessary measure since then.
A diesel particulate filter can also be referred to as a soot trap, in simple words. Its primary purpose is to capture the soot before it emits out as ‘exhaust’ into the air. The filter works as a sponge-like structure to trap the diesel particulates. Over time, the sponge like filter will fill up with soot and a ‘regeneration’ process is required which will turn the soot and other captured particles into ash through high temperature treatment.
The particulates resulting from diesel fuel combustion can be wholly regenerated without leaving a trace of ash. However, fuel additives, oil lubricants, and other engine metals are usually a part of the diesel exhaust. The ash generated upon regeneration results from these elements, which get trapped into the filter.
While you can do a DPF regeneration regularly (refer to your owner’s manual for manufacturers suggested intervals), it is still recommended to get your diesel particulate filter inspected from time to time to ensure it keeps running smoothly.
Instead of a replacement that costs thousands of dollars, you can get a thorough inspection, cleaning, re-inspection and report summarizing your DPF’s current condition. And at Lynx Emissions, you only pay when it passes.
Looking to ensure your diesel particulate filter (DPF) stays in top condition? Instead of costly replacements, you can get your DPF inspected, cleaned, or restored without breaking the bank.
Lynx Emissions also offers a complimentary consultation with a thorough visual inspection of your DPF at no cost, documenting its condition.
While a DPF’s primary purpose is to trap and hold on to damaging particulates, it also needs to get rid of them. In a process called regeneration, the DPF exposes them to extremely high temperatures, burns them and turns them into harmless ash.
The DPF can start regeneration in a couple of ways, but both need the exhaust gases to get extremely hot – usually around 500 degrees Celsius, which is twice as hot as a regular oven. ‘Passive regeneration’ takes place when you drive your car at speeds above 40mph for several minutes at a time, and doing this regularly should burn off the particulates in the DPF automatically.
Drivers who only drive short distances, won’t get their exhaust to a high enough temperature for ‘passive regeneration’ to happen. This can create a soot build-up, eventually blocking the DPF and creating engine problems such as misfiring and reduced fuel-efficiency. You may also see a warning light on the dashboard.
If you don’t regularly drive at a high speed, the engine will try to clear the DPF via ‘active regeneration’. This is where the after treatment system causes the exhaust gases to get hot enough to burn off the soot without requiring the car to be run at speed.
Unfortunately, active regeneration can only take place when the vehicle is moving, so anyone who does not do much highway driving may find their vehicles are unable to actively regenerate the DPF.
Most vehicles have a two-stage warning system. An amber light means you should be able to get the DPF to regenerate itself by driving over 40mph for about 10 minutes. However, if you see a red DPF warning light, however, this means a trip to the garage is needed.
If the DPF light comes on, it’s time to get device cleaned.
You will need to get your DPF cleaned as soon as possible. While you can buy DPF cleaner fluids from automotive stores, these are not proven to be effective. It is best to leave DPF cleaning to the professionals.
When you choose Gold Service, your DPF is restored to 98% of OE specifications. Gold service has several differences from a DPF cleaning.
Yes, we can clean DOC’s. We can clean your DOC on our Silver Service which restores it back to 80 – 85% and comes with 6 months warranty. With our Silver Service, please be aware there is no way for us to test the DOC. We do not recommend using our Gold Service on your DOC because it this would ruin the precious metals in your DOC and make it useless.
Yes, we can clean your SCR on our Silver Service which restores it back to 80 to 85% and includes a 6 month warranty. With our Silver Service, please be aware there is no way for us to test the DOC. We do not recommend using our Gold Service on your DOC because it this would ruin the precious metals in your DOC and it would no longer perform correctly.
Yes, we do. We recommend choosing our Gold Service for your EGR, however please be aware that we cannot test EGR’s.
Your Gold Service comes with a one-year warranty.
Other service options are available.
With any service level, you only pay for the service when it can be guaranteed and passes extensive testing.
If any issues arise, you can choose to have your DPF restored on us, or you can get a credit towards a replacement DPF.
If you're in need of DPF cleaning services, don't hesitate to contact us. Whether you have a commercial fleet or a personal vehicle, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to meet your needs. Don't let a clogged DPF compromise the performance and efficiency of your vehicle. We offer 24-hour turnaround for your convenience, including pick-up and delivery from locations within an hour of our service centres.
