What to Do When the High Exhaust Temperature Indicator Light Is On?
4 Answers
When the high exhaust temperature light or DPF indicator light remains on during normal vehicle operation, it indicates that the engine is undergoing active regeneration by actively increasing the exhaust temperature to meet regeneration conditions, and does not signify an engine fault. At this time, simply ensure the vehicle is kept away from flammable areas and continue driving with increased load. If the DPF light remains on after driving with increased load for a certain distance, promptly perform a parked regeneration operation to prevent further DPF clogging. Below are relevant details: 1. When the DPF indicator light on the dashboard flashes, perform a parked regeneration operation as required as soon as possible. If driving continues, DPF clogging will worsen, and the DPF indicator light will flash while the yellow warning light illuminates, leading to engine torque and speed limitations. 2. If the parked regeneration operation is still not performed and the DPF becomes completely clogged (with the MIL indicator light and red shutdown indicator light remaining on), parked regeneration can no longer be executed. The engine will shut down after 30 seconds. This situation is not caused by quality issues, and the only solution is to contact a service station for DPF cleaning or replacement.
That night I was rushing on the highway when the high exhaust temperature light suddenly lit up, glaring like a mini sun. I immediately slowed down, turned on the hazard lights, and pulled into the nearest service area to check. When this light comes on, it usually means the DPF is clogged or regeneration failed—definitely not something to ignore, as engine damage would cost a fortune to repair. I tried revving the engine for 20 minutes to see if it would trigger automatic regeneration—later I learned the issue was caused by prolonged idling during traffic jams on national highways. Now I clean carbon deposits every six months and always check the particulate filter before long trips. Remember: pull over immediately if the light comes on, avoid stomping the accelerator, and contact a professional repair shop—that’s the safest approach.
Buddy just went through this last month. When the high exhaust temperature light came on, I knew trouble was brewing. Diesel vehicle DPF systems often have issues, like interrupted regeneration or sensor malfunctions. I tried parking, turning off the engine, waiting ten minutes, and restarting, but the light kept flashing—had to call for roadside assistance. The mechanic said I'd been driving too many short trips, causing excessive carbon buildup that clogged the exhaust. Ended up spending 800 to clean the DPF, and he advised me to drive on the highway weekly to let the system burn off carbon deposits automatically. Suggest you also keep an OBD scanner handy to read trouble codes—way better than guessing blindly.
Last year, the high exhaust temperature warning light came on in my old pickup truck, which scared me so much my hands were shaking. After checking online, I learned that the issue was likely in the exhaust system: a clogged DPF, failed regeneration, or a faulty catalytic converter could all be the culprits. I tried inspecting the exhaust for black smoke or unusual noises, but my limited skills led me to take it to the repair shop. It turned out to be just carbon buildup from poor fuel quality, and driving at high speeds fixed it. Now, I only refuel at major-brand stations and add a bottle of cleaner every 5,000 kilometers. So far, there haven't been any more issues. Small maintenance habits really make a difference—don’t wait until the warning light comes on to panic.
