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Diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning light: what it means and what to do

Exhaust box with dots, or the letters DPF. Diesel cars only.

Book this weekSafe to keep driving for now, but get it checked this week.

The filter that traps soot in a diesel exhaust is filling up. A steady 20 to 30 minute drive at highway speed often clears it. If the light stays on or the car loses power, get it checked before the filter blocks completely.

What it means

Diesel cars burn off the soot in the particulate filter by getting hot enough. Lots of short, cold trips stop that from happening, so the filter slowly clogs. A blocked filter can cause poor power and, left long enough, an expensive repair.

Can I keep driving?

Yes, gently, for a short time. Get it checked this week.

What to do now

  1. Take the car for a steady drive at 80 to 100 km/h for about 20 to 30 minutes, if it is safe and legal to do so.
  2. If the light stays on, or the engine light joins it, book a check this week.
  3. Ask the shop whether the filter can be cleaned or regenerated before you accept a replacement quote.

Common causes

  • Mostly short trips
  • A blocked or worn filter
  • A faulty pressure or temperature sensor
  • Engine or fuel faults that make extra soot

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the diesel particulate filter (dpf) warning light on?

Yes, gently, for a short time. Get it checked this week.

What does the diesel particulate filter (dpf) warning light mean?

The filter that traps soot in a diesel exhaust is filling up. A steady 20 to 30 minute drive at highway speed often clears it. If the light stays on or the car loses power, get it checked before the filter blocks completely.

What should I do when the diesel particulate filter (dpf) warning light comes on?

Take the car for a steady drive at 80 to 100 km/h for about 20 to 30 minutes, if it is safe and legal to do so. If the light stays on, or the engine light joins it, book a check this week. Ask the shop whether the filter can be cleaned or regenerated before you accept a replacement quote.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.