Can You Continue Driving During DPF Regeneration?

[Boromir]

DPF regeneration failure does not prevent continued driving. Here are precautions for DPF usage: 1. Fuel requirements for DPF aftertreatment: Must use low-sulfur diesel compliant with China V emission standards (sulfur content below 10ppm) to prevent aftertreatment system poisoning and clogging; To extend the ash cleaning interval, CJ-4 grade or higher engine oil is recommended. The ash content in lubricating oil significantly impacts DPF - high ash content lubricants can easily cause DPF clogging. 2. Conditions triggering DPF regeneration: Carbon loading triggers regeneration, calculated through ECU's internal data model. Active regeneration occurs when carbon load is between 18g-30g, with normal engine operation, exhaust treatment system outlet temperature exceeding normal range, and high exhaust temperature light remaining illuminated. Driver-initiated regeneration (manual regeneration) occurs when carbon load is between 30g-40g.

[StArya]

I've been driving a diesel car for ten years and often encounter DPF regeneration issues. Regeneration is the process where the filter burns off accumulated soot at high temperatures, typically occurring while driving. The manual states that when the regeneration indicator light comes on, it's best to keep driving and not rush to stop. This is because driving puts a higher load on the engine, raising exhaust temperatures above 600 degrees Celsius, which effectively burns off the particulate matter. If regeneration occurs while parked, the idle temperature might not be sufficient, leading to incomplete regeneration. Over time, this can cause the DPF to clog more severely, resulting in reduced power or increased fuel consumption. Once, while on the highway, the regeneration light came on, and I maintained a speed of 80 km/h for twenty minutes—the process completed smoothly. If stopping is unavoidable, ensure you're in a safe location and activate the parked regeneration mode; otherwise, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits. Persisting in driving not only protects components but also prevents unexpected failures.

[OIsabel]

As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars, DPF regeneration is a common occurrence. You can continue driving, which is the optimal choice. The principle is simple: while driving, the engine running at high speed generates heat, helping to thoroughly burn off the clogging particles in the filter; if you stop, the temperature won't rise sufficiently, making regeneration prone to failure, potentially leading to more carbon buildup or triggering a warning light. I've found that driving for about ten minutes on regular roads is enough, and keeping the RPM above 2000 is more effective. There's no need to panic and stop the car, as it's designed to operate in this state. Driving like this long-term also saves hassle, reducing the number of trips to the repair shop for manual regeneration. However, it's important to note that during regeneration, avoid sudden braking or slow, erratic driving—just maintain a steady speed.

[DiElliot]

For safety considerations, continuing to drive during regeneration is the most prudent approach. Stopping for regeneration increases the risk of carbon buildup or blockage, which can affect engine performance and even safety. I believe the same principle should apply uniformly: whether on highways or city roads, keep driving when the light is on and only stop when the indicator turns off for safety. Stopping in traffic may lead to accidents, and incomplete regeneration could trigger alarms requiring emergency attention. The system can automatically adjust while driving, saving unnecessary hassle. This is how I operate daily to minimize unnecessary risks.