When your diesel particulate filter (DPF) is plugged, you have two choices: clean it or replace it. Cleaning costs a fraction of a new filter, so it's the right call for most filters that are simply loaded with soot and ash. A damaged filter is different, and cleaning it just delays the replacement.
Here's how to tell which one your filter needs.
When Cleaning Is the Right Choice
Clean the filter when:
- The DPF light or restriction codes like P2463 (soot) or P242F (ash) keep coming back.
- Regens are more frequent, or they finish but backpressure stays high.
- The filter is due for ash cleaning on your engine maker's schedule.
- The filter has no visible cracks, melting or oil or coolant contamination.
A professional cleaning removes the ash that regens can't and restores airflow through the filter. At $300, with a 24-hour turnaround, it's usually the fastest and lowest-cost way to get a loaded filter back in service.
When the Filter Needs Replacing
Cleaning can't repair physical damage. A filter usually needs replacing if:
- It's cracked. Cracks let soot pass through the filter. Code P2002 (DPF efficiency below threshold) or black soot at the tailpipe can point to a crack.
- It's melted. An uncontrolled regen with a heavily loaded filter can melt the substrate.
- It's contaminated with oil or coolant. Oil or coolant soaks into the filter and can't be removed by cleaning. Find and fix the source before installing any filter.
- Airflow doesn't recover after cleaning. If a filter can't pass a final airflow test, it can't do its job.
How We Help You Decide
Every filter we clean gets an initial inspection and a baseline airflow reading. If we find a crack, melting or contamination, we'll contact you before going further, so you don't pay to clean a filter that can't be saved.
If your filter needs replacing, we sell aftermarket diesel particulate filters for Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Paccar, International/Navistar, Hino, Isuzu, Caterpillar, Ford and Duramax applications. Our DPFs include free clamps and gaskets. Call with your part number and we'll help you find the right filter. We also carry DOCs, gaskets, clamps and sensors.
Fix the Cause First
Whether you clean or replace, a filter that fails early usually has a cause upstream. Before reinstalling, check for:
- Injector, turbo or EGR problems that create extra soot
- High oil consumption that adds ash faster
- Coolant leaks, including a leaking EGR cooler
- A failed pressure or temperature sensor, or a cracked sensor line
Quick Comparison
| Cleaning | Replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Filters loaded with soot and ash | Cracked, melted or contaminated filters |
| Cost | $300 for a DPF | Several times the cost of cleaning |
| Turnaround | 24 hours once it arrives | Depends on part availability |
| What you keep | Your original filter | A new aftermarket filter |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my DPF is cracked?
Signs include code P2002, soot at the tailpipe or on the outlet face of the filter, and a filter that never seems to load up. Our inspection checks for cracks before cleaning.
Can a DPF be cleaned more than once?
Yes. A healthy filter can be cleaned on your engine maker's schedule throughout its service life, as long as it passes inspection and airflow testing.
Should I clean the DOC at the same time?
It's a good idea. DOC cleaning is $80 when it's cleaned with your DPF, or $300 on its own.
Talk to Us About Your Filter
Call 574-213-8691 or email dieseldpfcleaning@gmail.com, Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Eastern. Drop off at our cleaning plant at 215 Ullery St, Unit 2, South Bend, IN 46637 and save $25 per item, or ask about free pickup within 90 miles.