Citroen DS3 Diesel Particulate Filter DPF (2009-2016)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in a Citroën DS3 is a post-treatment system installed in the exhaust line of the diesel vehicle. Its main role is to reduce soot emissions by capturing solid particles that the engine does not fully burn. It helps to significantly lower the environmental impact of diesel combustion.

The DPF consists of a ceramic honeycomb structure with numerous small porous channels alternately blocked at the inlet and outlet. It includes an insulation layer to fix the ceramic bodies and compensate for thermal expansion, and features a temperature sensor inserted into the exhaust gases to monitor conditions inside the filter.

The system uses a differential pressure sensor connected via flexible hoses to measure exhaust gas pressures before and after the DPF. This sensor provides data to the engine control unit (ECU) to monitor soot buildup.

• The ideal differential pressure is between 5 and 7 units.
• When soot accumulation raises the differential pressure beyond a set threshold, the ECU triggers regeneration.

Regeneration involves raising exhaust gas temperature above 150°C to burn off soot, converting it into carbon dioxide that easily passes through the filter.

The Citroën DS3 DPF includes an additive tank containing cerine, which optimizes the regeneration process. The engine control unit tracks the additive level via an activation control ECU. Warnings include:

• "Low additive level" indicating the cerine pouch requires replacement.
• "DPF blockage risk" signaling pending filter clogging.

Regular monitoring and maintenance of the additive system ensure efficient DPF operation and longevity.

Yes, the filter can be cleaned without removal using a specialized cleaning product injected directly into the filter. This product creates a cleaning foam that breaks down accumulated particles. Adequate time is required for the product to act effectively before resuming vehicle use.

Forced regeneration is a professional procedure to clear a clogged DPF, involving:

• An initial idle period of 2 minutes to warm the exhaust line.
• Ramping engine speed to 4000 rpm with post-injection to raise exhaust temperatures for soot combustion.
• A cooldown idle phase of about 30 seconds after regeneration.

This process restores filter functionality when regular regeneration is insufficient.

The DPF systems discussed are compatible with various Citroën DS3 diesel engines, including:

• Citroën DS3 1.6 HDI 110 (112 hp / 82 kW, engine code 9HR)
• Citroën DS3 1.6 BlueHDI 120 (DV6FC engine, 450 ml capacity)
• Other 1.6 BlueHDI variants

This ensures broad application among diesel-powered DS3 vehicles.

Additional resources include:

• Educational tutorials and videos on cleaning and maintenance procedures.
• Professional cleaning services offering no-disassembly DPF cleaning.
• Specialist suppliers offering high-quality replacement DPFs certified for the Citroën DS3.

For expert advice and genuine parts meeting strict quality and safety rules, always contact authorized professionals or trusted manufacturers directly.