How often should a China VI particulate filter be cleaned?
3 Answers
The cleaning of a China VI particulate filter does not have a specific interval. When the particulate filter warning light illuminates on the dashboard, it indicates the need for cleaning. The particulate filter is located behind the three-way catalytic converter and in front of the muffler, surrounded by upstream and downstream oxygen sensors. The general cleaning procedure for a particulate filter using cleaning equipment is as follows: First, remove the particulate filter and place it on the inspection equipment. Use the probe on the equipment to detect the clogging condition of the particulate filter. Then, preheat the cleaning equipment to 300°C, place the particulate filter inside, and increase the temperature to 600°C for carbon deposit oxidation treatment. After the treatment is completed, cool the particulate filter and use a high-pressure blowing tool to purge it. Once cleaning is finished, record the data of the particulate filter using professional measuring equipment. After completing the above steps, reassemble the particulate filter and install it back onto the vehicle.
I've been driving a China VI diesel vehicle for over a decade, and the cleaning cycle for the particulate filter really varies from person to person, depending on your driving habits and environment. For someone like me who often drives short distances in congested city traffic, particulate buildup is rapid, so I recommend checking it every year or every 10,000 kilometers to avoid blockages that could affect performance. If you frequently drive on highways at steady speeds a few times a week, it can self-clean, and you might only need to wash it every two or three years. Never ignore the dashboard warning light—address it as soon as it comes on, or your fuel consumption will skyrocket, and in severe cases, the engine might stall. Last time I delayed dealing with it, I ended up spending over a thousand bucks on repairs—totally not worth it. The most reliable approach is to have the mechanic check it during regular maintenance; it's cost-effective and safe. Age of the vehicle doesn't matter much here—the key is regular inspections.
As an office worker, I mostly drive a China VI vehicle for commuting, and I follow the 4S shop's advice on the particulate filter cleaning schedule. They recommend checking it every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers or during every 18-month service to prevent clogging issues. In city driving with frequent stops, particles accumulate faster; highway driving helps with self-cleaning and extends the interval. From my experience, avoiding frequent short trips and driving for at least 20 minutes after each startup can reduce the need for frequent cleanings. The cost isn't high—just a few hundred yuan per cleaning—but it's quite time-consuming. Keeping an eye on the dashboard warning light is the bottom line; get it fixed immediately if it lights up. This maintenance is simple yet essential—don't neglect it and risk shortening your car's lifespan.
