Common Questions

How will I know when it is time for DPF cleaning?
The LED lights monitor on the vehicle measures backpressure or high temperature conditions and tracks any engine or PM filter problems, including soot and ash overload and other conditions. (See also Red Light Service.)

How frequently will DPF cleaning be required?
Most retrofit manufacturers recommend DPF cleaning once a year, every 50,000 miles, (or every 2,000 operating hours depending on application); however, any given engine may require different maintenance intervals, depending on the engine, equipment operation and duty cycle.

What other maintenance requirements should I be aware of?
In order for the DPF to work properly your engine should be maintained in good working condition. At FleetCrew we recommend getting an annual engine & components inspection to ensure everything works properly (Durathon Plus Service). In addition; some DPF manufacturers require an Annual System Maintenance and Inspection.

How can the DPF cleaning intervals be extended?
Recommendations to extend the DPF cleaning intervals include the following:

• Maintaining the engine in like-new condition to minimize oil consumption
• Not consuming lubricating oil at a rate greater than that specified by the engine manufacturer
• Use CJ-4 oil only (low ash oil)
• Not using fuel or oil additives
• Avoiding long idling times
• Avoiding excessive stop-and-go driving conditions

Can I perform my own DPF cleaning service?
Fleets can purchase their own cleaning equipment. However, factory-approved cleaning methods & procedures must be followed. In addition, diesel ash material removed from the filter is considered Hazardous Waste and must be disposed of and manifested according to CA/EPA requirements. It is illegal to simply throw away in ordinary trash. Fleets pursuing self-cleaning options would be considered a "generator" by the CA Dept. of Toxic Substances Control and therefore would need to apply for a CAL/EPA ID. If fleet pursues cleaning and disposal through a supplier, the fleet is still held accountable to ensure the supplier they use is properly permitted and insured. (More on Hazardous Waste here.)

Am I required to keep service records on file?
Yes. It is a CARB requirement to keep service records for each filter. Also, DPF manufacturers require cleaning records and inspection records to be submitted at the time of a warranty claim. Lack of, or even poor record-keeping could result in fines by CARB and/or denial of a warranty claim by the manufacturer.

Stop stressing over CARB'S complex compliance regulations

Reduce inspection costs, streamline processes and mitigate risks

Painlessly obtain Truck Certificates and renew DMV registrations

Avoid costly compliance violations & fines

Stop stressing over CARB'S complex compliance regulations

Reduce inspection costs, streamline processes and mitigate risks

Painlessly obtain Truck Certificates and renew DMV registrations

Avoid costly compliance violations & fines