Citroen C5 Aircross Diesel Particulate Filter DPF (2018-Today)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on the Citroën C5 Aircross is an essential emission control device fitted to all diesel (BlueHDi) and direct injection petrol (PureTech) engines. It traps fine particulate matter (soot) in exhaust gases using a porous material (such as silicon carbide or cordierite) and periodically regenerates to burn off accumulated deposits.

All versions of the Citroën C5 Aircross comply with Euro 6 standards and come fitted with a DPF:

• 1.2 PureTech 130 petrol (direct injection, cordierite)
• 1.5 BlueHDi 130 diesel (DV5RC engine with additive to lower combustion to 450°C)
• 1.6 PureTech 180 petrol
• 2.0 BlueHDi 180 diesel
• 1.6 Hybrid 224 (requires AdBlue® for DPF functionality)

DPFs are mandatory to reduce emissions effectively.

The DPF works by trapping carbon and particulate matter in its porous structure located downstream of the catalytic converter. It features two main types of regeneration:

• Passive regeneration: At high exhaust temperatures (550-600°C on highways for petrol, lowered to about 450°C with additive for diesel), soot burns off naturally.
• Active regeneration: During short urban trips, the engine management system injects extra fuel to raise exhaust temperature for soot combustion. This prevents clogging due to accumulation of ash or unburned particulates.

This process helps keep emissions near zero and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.

DPF maintenance includes automatic and manual steps:

• Automatic regeneration: Controlled by the vehicle’s ECU with self-diagnostics that trigger soot burning during long drives or motorway runs.
• Manual cleaning: The DPF can be removed and cleaned by vacuuming or blowing out dust and injecting specialized cleaning fluids into the honeycomb structure. This is generally considered an easy DIY task on the Citroën C5 platform with typical removal of 4 bolts, sensors, and clamps.

Regular cleaning or forced regeneration via an OBD diagnostic tool can extend DPF life and improve engine performance.

Replacement is necessary when the DPF is irreversibly clogged or damaged. Replacement times vary by engine type:

• 1.2 PureTech 130 petrol: about 1 hour
• 1.5 BlueHDi 130 diesel: approximately 1 hour 6 minutes
• 1.6 Hybrid 224: approximately 1 hour 24 minutes

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) new DPFs are available with a 3-year warranty and meet stringent European standards for compatibility and durability.

In urban driving conditions, frequent short trips cause active regeneration to trigger often and increase clogging risk, resulting in:

• Warning lights on the dashboard
• Loss of engine power
• Possible increased fuel consumption

If these symptoms appear, cleaning the DPF or forcing regeneration using an OBD tool can help restore normal function. Professional diagnostics are recommended for persistent issues.

High-quality, European-made new DPF units are available direct from trusted suppliers with OEM-grade certification. These include references such as the 1.5 BlueHDi DV5RC (YHZ) filter, fully approved under the required European emissions norms. Prices and delivery times vary depending on the model and parts asked for.

Always confirm compatibility via your vehicle VIN or original DPF reference to ensure the correct fit and performance.

To maintain optimal DPF performance and longevity:

• Prefer longer journeys on highways or open roads to enable passive regeneration at higher exhaust temperatures.
• Avoid extended idling or frequent short urban trips that can cause soot build-up.
• Follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and use recommended fuel and additives like AdBlue® where applicable.
• Ensure timely diagnostics and professional cleaning if warning lights appear.

Correct care combined with high-quality spare parts helps reduce overall maintenance costs and environmental impact.

For detailed technical support, always consult a Citroën authorised service or trusted automotive professional.