DPF regeneration: passive, active and forced, explained
How DPF regeneration burns off soot, the difference between passive, active and forced regeneration, how long it takes and how it differs from cleaning.
Products
DPF diagnostic tools, scanners and testers
Scanners that read DPF data and run forced regenerations, plus back-pressure and flow testers for checking a filter before and after cleaning.
Short answer
DPF diagnostic tools fall into two groups: scanners that read fault codes and live DPF data (soot load, ash load, differential pressure) and can run forced regenerations and resets; and physical testers that measure exhaust back pressure or airflow through a removed filter.
Products are being researched for this category. We only list products with verified manufacturer information. In the meantime, the buying guide below explains what to look for.
Ask about a productBuying guide: DPF diagnostic tools
Scanners
For DPF work a scanner needs more than generic code reading. Look for live DPF data, the ability to run a forced or service regeneration, and resets for soot/ash values and new-filter adaptations on the vehicles you work on. Coverage varies by make and model, so check the manufacturer's vehicle coverage list.
Back-pressure and flow testers
A back-pressure tester shows exhaust restriction on the vehicle. A flow tester measures airflow through a removed filter and is the standard way to prove a DPF clean worked.
What to check before buying
-
Vehicle coverage
Confirm the makes, models and years you service.
-
DPF functions
Live data, forced regeneration, soot/ash reset, new DPF adaptation.
-
Updates
Subscription cost and update frequency.
-
Testers
Back-pressure (on-vehicle) or flow (off-vehicle) measurement.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can a DPF scanner force a regeneration?
Many professional scanners can on supported vehicles. Check that the function is listed for the specific vehicle before buying.
DPF sensors: pressure and temperature sensors explained
What the DPF differential pressure sensor and exhaust temperature sensors do, symptoms of a faulty DPF sensor and how they are tested.
DPF diagnostics: fault codes, soot load and testing
How DPF problems are diagnosed: fault codes, soot and ash load values, sensor checks, back-pressure and flow testing.
Passive, active and forced DPF regeneration compared
The three ways a DPF regenerates, what triggers each one, what the driver notices and when a forced regeneration is the right step.
Ask a question
Not sure which product you need?
Tell us the vehicle or equipment and the problem you are trying to solve. We reply by email.