Does the Buick GL8 have a particulate filter?
2 Answers
Buick GL8 is equipped with a particulate filter to meet the China VI emission standards. A particulate filter is a ceramic filter installed in the diesel engine emission system, which captures particulate emissions before they enter the atmosphere. It can reduce soot produced by diesel engines by more than 90%, and the captured particulate emissions are subsequently burned off during vehicle operation. Working principle of the particulate filter: 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 engine exhaust particulate trap through a dedicated pipe. After passing through its densely arranged bag-type filter, the carbon smoke particles are adsorbed on the filter made of metal fiber felt. When the adsorption of particles reaches a certain level, the burner at the end automatically ignites and burns, turning the adsorbed carbon smoke particles into harmless carbon dioxide that is then expelled. To check whether the Buick GL8 has a particulate filter, you can use the following three methods: Check the "Owner's Maintenance Manual" and "Owner's User Manual" to see if there is a particulate filter function. Additionally, you can carefully check the fault codes in the manual to see if there is a "particulate filter" fault light indicator; Check the label above the oil filler cap. If the oil cap clearly indicates 0W-20 grade oil, it means the vehicle is equipped with a particulate filter; Check whether there is a cylindrical section on the exhaust pipe behind the three-way catalytic converter. If there is, that is the particulate filter.
I've been driving the Buick GL8 for two years now. The models updated after 2019 indeed come equipped with a particulate filter, primarily to meet the requirements of the China VI emission standards. The particulate filter's function is to capture fine dust particles in the exhaust, reducing pollution and protecting the environment. It is installed behind the three-way catalytic converter and can automatically clean during high-speed driving. However, it's important to note that frequent low-speed driving may lead to clogging, resulting in increased fuel consumption or the illumination of a fault indicator. I recommend regular checks or maintaining it by driving at high speeds for extended periods to keep the car in good condition and save money.
