With the state of the environment, modern-day diesel cars have been equipped with components which reduce the spread of toxic pollutants. One of these tools is the diesel particulate filter system (DPF), which works to lower the level of fumes emitted from your vehicle. This wouldn’t be possible without the differential pressure sensor, which measures signals through the powertrain control module to begin a regeneration process, clearing the soot stored in the filter. If the sensor fails and the DPF becomes clogged, you could face a hefty repair or replacement fee. It can also cause devastating effects on your engine, meaning another costly charge. We’ll cover the ins and outs of DPF pressure sensors and why you may need to have them replaced.
What is a DPF pressure sensor? How does it work?
To understand how a DPF pressure sensor works, let’s briefly talk about the DPF system. Diesel cars are fitted with a DPF to remove soot from the exhaust to reduce emissions. The DPF can be located at the beginning of the exhaust system and traps around 85% -100% of the soot produced by the engine. To prevent the filter from becoming blocked, the engine performs a regeneration process by injecting fuel into the exhaust system. This process increases the heat generated in the DPF and allows it to burn out excess soot.
The DPF pressure sensor can often be found mounted in the engine compartment, protecting it from heat produced by the vehicle. They are connected to the engine control unit and use two silicon hoses to connect to the DPF. One hose is connected after the DPF, while the other is connected before the DPF. This pressure sensor’s job is to measure the difference in exhaust gas pressure before it reaches the filter and after it. The DPF pressure sensor sends electronic signs to the powertrain control module or engine control unit to begin the regeneration process.
Why do DPF pressure sensors go bad?
Any sensor in the vehicle can fail for several reasons. Wires connected to the ECU can damage, crack, and even melt from extreme heat. With the DPF pressure sensor, the hoses it uses to operate can become clogged from soot deposits over time. This stops the sensor from accurately identifying changes in exhaust fumes, leading to intense damage to the engine and DPF system. If the DPF system fails, exhaust gasses and soot will enter the combustion chamber and mix engine oil, creating a corrosive mixture that will damage the engine. Once this happens, engine failure is imminent. A clogged or blocked DPF will not be cleared through regeneration and may have to be removed from the vehicle, which can be a hefty payment. To avoid this, a faulty DPF sensor should be replaced as soon as possible.
How to know you need a replacement?
As a faulty DPF pressure sensor can lead to damage within the engine and DPF system, it is important to know when it is going bad. There are multiple signals that your DPF sensor is underperforming or not working at all. Some of the most common signs to look out for are: Poor engine performance and fuel usage, high temperatures in the engine and transmissions and an increase of soot, which forms as black smoke being expunged from the exhaust. You can also check your car’s dashboard to see if the engine or DPF lights are on.
About DPF Restore:
Established in 2009, DPF RESTORE has highly skilled mobile mechanics who can replace DPF sensors on almost any vehicle. With nationwide coverage, aim to solve your issues the same day.