Can You Drive Normally When the Regeneration Light Is On?
3 Answers
You can drive normally when the regeneration light is on, but it may easily cause other issues with the vehicle. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a regeneration process promptly when the light comes on. Below is relevant information about the regeneration light: Method of Regeneration: When the regeneration indicator light illuminates or flashes, safely park the vehicle nearby, engage the parking brake, keep the engine idling, press the stationary regeneration switch, and perform an engine stationary regeneration, which takes about 30 minutes. Precautions: During stationary regeneration, the engine speed will noticeably increase (1500 RPM). After the engine automatically returns to idle, press the accelerator pedal fully to run at high idle for 5 minutes. Once the regeneration light turns off, you can resume normal driving.
When the regeneration indicator light comes on in your car, I suggest you can still drive normally, as it's not as urgent as something like emergency braking. Having driven a diesel car for several years myself, I take it as a reminder that the filter needs to clean out carbon particles. The system is designed this way—the light indicates it's either automatically processing or waiting to trigger regeneration to avoid clogging. If ignored, only driving short distances or idling for too long may lead to a completely clogged filter, resulting in soaring fuel consumption or even degraded engine performance. I think the most practical solution is to plan a long-distance drive as soon as possible, maintaining medium-to-high speed for about half an hour, and the light will naturally turn off. If the light stays on and doesn't go off, you should visit a professional shop to check the sensors or perform a manual regeneration. Never delay, as prolonged neglect could lead to skyrocketing repair costs.
The regeneration light came on but the car could still be driven. I was a bit nervous the first time I encountered it, but later got used to it. In principle, this light indicates that the filter is full of carbon deposits, and the system is working in the background to clear it, so driving doesn't affect daily commuting. The problem lies in not ignoring it when it's constantly on. For example, if you're always driving around the city, a severely clogged filter can affect the car's exhaust emissions and even cause sudden stalling or breakdowns midway. I tried intentionally taking the highway for a spin on the weekend, maintaining a steady speed of around 80, and the light went off. Developing good habits like checking tire pressure and engine oil can also help prevent such issues.
