Not sure whether your diesel particulate filter can be cleaned again or needs replacing? Here’s a clear, mileage-based guide to help you decide what’s worth doing—and what’s not.

1. What Is the Average DPF Lifespan?

Most diesel particulate filters last between 100,000–150,000 miles, depending on driving style, service history, and fuel quality. Motorway-driven vehicles often exceed this, while city cars may struggle to reach 70,000 miles. Over time, DPFs collect both soot and ash (from engine oil additives), and ash cannot be burned off by regeneration. Once ash fills about 80% of the filter’s capacity, cleaning becomes less effective and replacement is usually needed.

2. Signs Your DPF Nears the End of Its Life

• Regeneration attempts happening every 100–150 miles
• High back-pressure readings even after cleaning
• Persistent limp-mode or reduced-power warnings
• Abnormal DPF temperature sensor readings

Before assuming it’s finished, have a professional on-car clean and flow test done. These show whether the filter can still be recovered.

3. When Cleaning Is Still Worth It

If the filter’s substrate is intact and ash load is under 80%, cleaning almost always works. We see strong results from both on-car and off-car methods:

• On-car DPF Cleaning – £150–£350 (not an actual quote but a guide): Ideal for moderate blockages and vehicles still running.
• Off-car DPF Refurbishment – £180–£400 (not an actual quote but a guide): Best for severe soot loads or after engine repairs.

Both restore flow and include before/after print-outs so you know the result. Cleaning is always cheaper than replacing—especially for larger filters that cost £800–£1,500+ (not an actual quote but a guide) to buy new.

4. When Replacement Makes More Sense

If the substrate is cracked, melted, or oil-contaminated, it’s beyond repair. Replace if:

• Flow test shows <70% efficiency after professional cleaning
• Pressure difference stays high, even with new sensors
• The vehicle has exceeded 150,000 miles with multiple cleans already

At that point, a new OEM or quality aftermarket DPF is the only safe fix. Make sure any replacement is fitted after engine-fault checks to prevent immediate re-blocking.

5. Typical Cleaning vs Replacement Costs

Compare services at our postal DPF cleaning page or visit our Stoke-on-Trent garage for in-house options.

6. Mileage Guide – When to Schedule a Clean

• 0–50k miles: Preventative on-car clean helps maintain healthy flow.
• 60–100k miles: Full clean recommended—ideal before ash buildup.
• 100k+ miles: Test flow; off-car clean or refurbishment likely needed.
• 150k+ miles: Evaluate for replacement if repeated blockages occur.

7. Extend DPF Life Between Cleans

• Use correct-spec engine oil—low SAPS (ash) formulas only
• Carry out 20-minute A-road runs weekly for regen
• Fix EGR and sensor faults as soon as they appear
• Keep fuel quality high and avoid cheap additives

Read our guide on DPF warning lights to spot early signs before they become expensive repairs.

FAQs

How many times can a DPF be cleaned?

Usually 2–3 times during its lifespan, depending on driving style and filter quality. After that, ash build-up limits effectiveness.

Does DPF cleaning damage the filter?

No. When done properly using professional methods, cleaning is safe and fully restores flow. Avoid DIY chemical soaks that can crack the core.

Is replacing the DPF worth the cost?

Yes, if the core is damaged or ash load too high. Otherwise, cleaning delivers the same result at a fraction of the price (not an actual quote but a guide).

Book a DPF Health Check Today

If you’re unsure whether your DPF needs a clean or replacement, book a flow test at our Hanley garage. We’ll measure back-pressure, advise the best option, and get you back on the road fast. UK-wide postal service also available here.

Book DPF Health Check or Clean