If your diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning light has come on, you’re probably wondering: “How much is this going to cost me?” The good news: professional DPF cleaning is significantly cheaper than replacement – and in most cases, it’s all you need to get your vehicle running smoothly again.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down exactly what you can expect to pay for DPF cleaning in 2025, compare your options, and help you understand what affects the final price.

DPF Cleaning Cost Overview (2025)

• Mobile on-car DPF cleaning: £150–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide)
• Postal/off-car DPF cleaning: £180–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide)
• Garage-based DPF cleaning: £200–£450 (not an actual quote but a guide)
• DPF replacement (for comparison): £800–£2,500+ (not an actual quote but a guide)

Important note: Prices vary depending on your vehicle, DPF condition, location, and provider. Always request a quote based on your specific vehicle before booking. The ranges above reflect typical market rates across the UK, but your actual cost may differ.

On-Car DPF Cleaning: £150–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide)

On-car (mobile) DPF cleaning is where a specialist comes to your location and cleans your DPF without removing it. It’s the most convenient and cost-effective option for moderately blocked filters.

• Diagnostic scan to assess DPF condition
• Chemical cleaning solution flushed through the DPF
• Forced regeneration cycle
• Post-cleaning diagnostic check
• Flow test (with reputable providers)

Standard cars (small diesel): £150–£250 (not an actual quote but a guide)
Larger vehicles (SUVs, vans): £200–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide)
Premium/luxury vehicles: £250–£400+ (not an actual quote but a guide)

Pros: Affordable, convenient, fast (1–2 hours), no DPF removal.
Cons: Less thorough than off-car cleaning, may not work for severe blockages.

Postal/Off-Car DPF Cleaning: £180–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide)

Postal/off-car DPF cleaning involves removing the DPF, sending it to a specialist for deep cleaning, and then reinstalling it. This is the most thorough cleaning method.

• DPF removal (by you or a mechanic)
• Ultrasonic or thermal cleaning
• Flow testing before and after
• Detailed condition report
• Return shipping (usually included)
• Guarantee/Warranty (Terms & Conditions apply) (T&Cs apply)

Cleaning only (you remove/refit): £180–£300 (not an actual quote but a guide)
Including removal/refitting: £350–£600+ (not an actual quote but a guide)
Express service (24hr): +£50–£100 (not an actual quote but a guide)

Pros: Most thorough, flow tested, higher success rate for severe blockages.
Cons: Vehicle off road for 2–5 days, extra cost if mechanic needed.

DPF Replacement Cost: £800–£2,500+ (not an actual quote but a guide)

If your DPF is physically damaged, cleaning won’t work – you’ll need a replacement, which is significantly more expensive.

• Aftermarket DPF: £400–£800 (not an actual quote but a guide) (parts only)
• OEM DPF: £800–£1,500 (not an actual quote but a guide) (parts only)
• Full replacement (parts + labour): £1,000–£2,500+ (not an actual quote but a guide)
• Premium/luxury vehicles: £2,000–£4,000+ (not an actual quote but a guide)

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Always try professional cleaning first. In 85–90% of cases, a blocked DPF can be cleaned successfully, saving you £700–£2,000+ (not an actual quote but a guide) compared to replacement.

DPF Cleaning vs Replacement: At-a-Glance

Potential Savings: Choosing cleaning over replacement can save you £700–£2,200 (not an actual quote but a guide) on average.

What Affects DPF Cleaning Cost?

• Vehicle Make & Model: Small diesels (lower end), SUVs/vans (mid-high), luxury (highest)
• Blockage Severity: More severe = more expensive/complex cleaning
• Location: London/South East 10–20% higher; rural areas may add travel surcharges
• Service Type: Mobile (cheapest), garage (mid), main dealer (expensive)
• Extras: Diagnostics, removal/refitting, EGR cleaning, sensor replacement

Regional DPF Cleaning Costs

• Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire: £150–£280 (not an actual quote but a guide) mobile, £180–£320 (not an actual quote but a guide) postal
• West Midlands: £170–£300 (not an actual quote but a guide) mobile, £200–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide) garage
• London/South East: £200–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide) mobile, £250–£500 (not an actual quote but a guide) garage
• North West: £150–£300 (not an actual quote but a guide) mobile, £180–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide) garage
• Scotland, Wales & South West: £180–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide) mobile, £200–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide) garage

How to Get the Best Price

• Get multiple quotes (mobile specialists, local garages, postal services)
• Ask about guarantee (Terms & Conditions Apply)s and flow test proof
• Check what’s included (diagnostics, chemicals, travel)
• Consider postal if you have a trusted mechanic
• Don’t wait – early cleaning = lower cost, higher success

Warning Signs Your DPF Needs Cleaning

• ⚠️ DPF warning light illuminated
• 📉 Noticeable loss of power
• ⛽ Increased fuel consumption
• 💨 Excessive black smoke from exhaust
• 🚗 Engine in “limp mode”
• 🔄 Failed regeneration attempts
• 🏁 Rough idling or poor acceleration

Ignoring these signs can cause: Turbo damage (£500–£1,500 (not an actual quote but a guide)), injector problems (£300–£800 (not an actual quote but a guide)), DPF failure (£1,000–£2,500 (not an actual quote but a guide)). Early cleaning (£150–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide)) prevents these costly repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to clean a DPF filter in the UK?

Professional DPF cleaning typically costs between £150–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide). This is significantly cheaper than DPF replacement, which costs £1,000–£2,500 (not an actual quote but a guide)+. Always request a quote for your vehicle.

Is DPF cleaning worth the cost?

Yes. DPF cleaning restores most filters for a fraction of the replacement price and has an 85–95% success rate.

How much does DPF regeneration cost?

Forced DPF regeneration at a garage: £80–£150 (not an actual quote but a guide). If heavily blocked, full cleaning (£150–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide)) is needed.

Can I clean my DPF myself?

DIY additives (£15–£40 (not an actual quote but a guide)) rarely work for severe blockages. Professional cleaning uses industrial equipment and is much more effective.

How often does a DPF need cleaning?

Typically every 80,000–120,000 miles, or more often with short journeys/city driving.

Does DPF cleaning include a guarantee (Terms & Conditions Apply)?

Most reputable providers offer a 30–90 day guarantee (Terms & Conditions Apply) (T&Cs apply). Always ask before booking.

What’s cheaper: mobile or postal DPF cleaning?

Mobile is usually cheaper upfront; postal is more thorough for severe blockages and may offer better long-term value.

How much does DPF cleaning cost for a van?

Van DPF cleaning: £200–£450 (not an actual quote but a guide) depending on size and complexity.

Are there hidden costs?

Check for extras: diagnostics, removal/refitting, sensors, travel. Reputable providers are transparent—always ask what’s included.

Is main dealer DPF cleaning more expensive?

Yes, main dealers charge £300–£600 (not an actual quote but a guide)+. Independent specialists offer the same service at much better value.

Next Steps: Book Your DPF Clean Today

Don’t let a blocked DPF turn into a four-figure repair. Professional cleaning can restore your filter for a fraction of the cost.

• ✅ Same-day mobile service in many areas
• ✅ Postal DPF cleaning UK-wide
• ✅ Flow tested and guarantee (Terms & Conditions Apply)d (T&Cs apply)
• ✅ From £150 (not an actual quote but a guide) for standard vehicles

Call us today for a free, no-obligation quote based on your vehicle, or book online now.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. The longer you drive with a blocked DPF, the more damage you risk – and the higher the eventual cost. Get a quote today and save hundreds compared to replacement (not an actual quote but a guide).