Does the BMW 5 Series come with a particulate filter?
3 Answers
The 2021 BMW 5 Series does not come with a particulate filter, while the 2022 BMW 5 Series is equipped with one. A particulate filter is a ceramic filter installed in the exhaust system of diesel engines, designed to capture particulate emissions before they enter the atmosphere. It can reduce soot emissions from diesel engines by more than 90%, and the captured particulate matter is subsequently burned off during vehicle operation. How the particulate filter works: The diesel particulate filter is coated with metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. The black smoke containing carbon particles emitted by the diesel engine enters the particulate filter through a dedicated pipe. The densely arranged bag-type filter inside captures the carbon particles on a metal fiber felt filter. When the accumulated particulate matter reaches a certain level, the burner at the end automatically ignites, burning off the captured carbon particles and converting them into harmless carbon dioxide, which is then released. To check whether the BMW 5 Series is equipped with a particulate filter, you can use the following three methods: 1. Check the and to see if the particulate filter function is mentioned. Additionally, carefully review the fault codes in the manual to see if there is a "particulate filter" warning light indicator. 2. Look at the label on the oil cap. If the oil cap clearly indicates the use of 0W-20 grade oil, it means the vehicle is equipped with a particulate filter. 3. Check the exhaust pipe behind the three-way catalytic converter to see if there is an additional cylindrical section. If present, that is the particulate filter.
As a BMW 5 Series owner, my car is the gasoline version purchased last year and indeed comes with a particulate filter. To comply with current stringent environmental regulations, BMW has equipped most models with this device. I recall the salesperson mentioning during purchase that the new 5 Series in the Chinese market is fitted with a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) to filter fine particles from exhaust gases and reduce pollution. There haven't been any issues during use, but it's important to check its condition during regular maintenance to prevent clogging that could affect fuel consumption. I've also noticed that if you frequently take short trips, the sensor might indicate a regeneration need—simply driving on the highway can resolve this. Overall, having a particulate filter makes the car more environmentally friendly. While it adds a bit to maintenance costs, it's a well-designed feature for meeting standards. I recommend fellow owners pay extra attention to this during maintenance to avoid minor issues turning into major problems.
I work in auto repair and have handled many BMW 5 Series maintenance jobs. From a technical perspective, current BMW 5 Series models, whether gasoline or diesel versions, are basically equipped with particulate filters. Gasoline cars have GPF, while diesel cars have DPF, mandated by Euro 6 and China's National 6 standards. I often get customers asking about this during repairs, and the explanation is simple: this device is installed in the exhaust pipe, mainly using a filtration layer to capture soot particles and reduce harmful emissions. The BMW 5 Series system automatically monitors it—if it gets clogged, a warning light will indicate regeneration is needed—just park or drive at high speed for a while, and it’ll clear up. Maintenance is crucial here; when changing the oil, check the sensors and pipes as well. Otherwise, long-term neglect could damage the entire exhaust system, leading to costly repairs.
