Does the Ford Explorer Have a Particulate Filter?
4 Answers
Ford Explorer 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's emission system, 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 engine's exhaust particulate trap through a dedicated pipe. Inside, a densely arranged bag-type filter captures the carbon particles on a metal fiber felt filter. When the accumulated particulate matter reaches a certain level, a burner at the end automatically ignites, burning off the captured carbon particles and converting them into harmless carbon dioxide. To check if the Ford Explorer has a particulate filter, you can use the following three methods: 1. Refer to the and to see if the particulate filter function is mentioned. Additionally, carefully check the fault codes in the manual for any "particulate filter" warning light indicators. 2. Check the label on the oil filler cap. If it clearly states 0W-20 grade oil, it indicates the presence of a particulate filter. 3. Look behind the three-way catalytic converter on the exhaust pipe for a cylindrical section. If present, that is the particulate filter.
I remember researching when I bought my Ford Explorer a few years ago—it's a gasoline vehicle, the kind that doesn't have a particulate filter. Those filters are mainly for diesel vehicles, like trucks or some SUVs, used to trap soot. In the U.S. version, the Explorer uses a regular gasoline engine, and its emission system relies on a catalytic converter, so there's no need for a particulate filter. If you're a new owner or looking at specific model years, like post-2020 European versions, they might have a GPF (similar to a particulate filter) to comply with regulations, but most Explorer owners say they don't notice any difference in driving, and it's never mentioned during maintenance. My 2018 model has run over 70,000–80,000 kilometers, and I’ve never encountered any related issues. I’d recommend checking the owner’s manual or online forums for more details.
As an enthusiast who frequently works on various vehicles, I can tell you the Ford Explorer gasoline version basically doesn't come equipped with a particulate filter. This device was originally designed for diesel engines to capture particulates, and the Explorer's engine design doesn't require it. If you purchased it in Europe or China where regulations are stricter, some newer models might have a GPF, but it's generally rare for gasoline versions. I recommend owners check the exhaust pipe: if it's really installed, it will periodically 'regenerate' during highway driving, otherwise black smoke may appear. Generally, there's no need to worry - the Explorer handles emissions through its catalytic converter. Just ignore it during maintenance for peace of mind, unless it's the diesel version Explorer, which is extremely rare.
I drove my friend's Ford Explorer, and he straight up said it doesn't have a particulate filter. Those things are more common on diesel vehicles, gasoline cars don't need them installed. The Explorer is a pure gasoline SUV, the engine burns cleaner with just fuel. Particulate filters mainly trap exhaust impurities, but modern tech makes them redundant. I think it's simple: just check the vehicle manual or app, one look and you'll know. The Explorer was designed without this component, just drive smoothly and you're good.
