Volkswagen Crafter Diesel Particulate Filter DPF

The DPF is a crucial component of the exhaust system in Volkswagen Crafter diesel engines (notably the 2.0 TDI). Made of ceramic (cordierite), it physically traps carbon soot particles produced during combustion while allowing their elimination via a regeneration process. It is positioned after the catalytic converter and measures clogging through differential pressure sensors installed before and after the filter.

Regeneration can occur in two ways to clean the trapped soot:

• Passive regeneration : Happens naturally at 550-600°C during long highway drives, where hot exhaust gases oxidize the soot.
• Active regeneration : Triggered by the engine control unit every 700–1000 km during city driving or low temperature conditions. It uses post-injection of fuel after the top dead center to heat the exhaust to approximately 450-600°C, sometimes aided by additives or AdBlue injection for SCR systems.

This process may cause slight dilution of engine oil by unburnt fuel.

Common symptoms indicating a clogged or faulty DPF include :

• Illuminated DPF warning light on the dashboard
• Reduced engine power and vehicle speed (limp mode)
• Increased fuel consumption
• Visible black smoke from the exhaust

On 2.0 TDI Crafter models post-2011, defective pressure sensors or clogged EGR valves can worsen the issue, causing loss of power and fuel overconsumption.

There are several methods to maintain or clean the DPF :

• Performing a regular highway drive of 15-20 minutes at around 3000 rpm to enable passive regeneration, effective for light clogging
• Using a garage roller bench test (~£100) to simulate motorway conditions and force regeneration, coupled with OBD diagnostics to clear fault codes
• Professional cleaning via high-pressure or ultrasonic methods to remove soot and ash buildup
• Replacement with a brand-new DPF if cleaning is insufficient or unit is damaged

Avoid removing or deleting the DPF as this is illegal, causes pollution, and may lead to ECU faults.

Replacement prices vary by model and Euro standard :

• Crafter 2.0 TDI (2011+ CKUC/CKUB engine) - New DPF around £1000+
• Crafter 2.0 TDI (2011-2016 Euro 5) - Combined catalytic converter + DPF unit
• Crafter (2018+ Euro 5/6) - Ceramics cordierite DPF available for quick delivery

We recommend contacting authorized dealers or specialists for genuine, high-quality DPFs certified to meet or exceed European standards, ensuring durability and compliance.

Removing or deleting the DPF is illegal under current regulations as it significantly increases pollution and can cause engine control issues. It is strongly advised to keep the DPF in place and maintain it properly to meet environmental and regulatory requirements.

For vehicles with Euro 6 standards using AdBlue, consult a qualified garage for appropriate servicing.

Diagnosis involves reading fault codes via an OBD scanner such as VCDS specifically for Volkswagen vehicles. Key indicators include high differential pressure (>50 mbar) across the DPF and sensor error codes.

• Check the DPF warning lights
• Measure pressure differentials before and after the filter
• Monitor regeneration cycles triggered by the vehicle's ECU

For advanced diagnostics and repair, it is recommended to consult authorized garages or maintenance workshops specializing in VW Crafter diesel engines.

We provide direct-from-factory, brand-new DPFs manufactured in Europe to the highest standards, including certification by TÜV SÜD. Our products offer outstanding durability, performance, and compliance with environmental regulations.

• 3-year warranty covering up to 100,000 km use
• Manufactured in stainless steel INOX 409 with premium ceramic monoliths
• Technical support available for installation and diagnostics
• Professional delivery services with tracking and fast shipping options

Contact us to access our full catalogue, request compatibility checks by VIN, and receive expert advice on maintaining your Volkswagen Crafter DPF system securely and efficiently.

We do not support advertising, resale by unauthorized third parties, or any illegal tampering of the DPF system.