Citroen Xsara Picasso Diesel Particulate Filter DPF (1999-2012)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on the Citroën Xsara Picasso, especially those equipped with the 1.6 HDi diesel engine from March 2004 onwards, is an anti-pollution device. Positioned after the catalytic converter and before the silencer in the exhaust system, it traps up to 99% of fine soot particulate matter produced by diesel combustion to protect both health and the environment.

The DPF is made from ceramic materials such as cordierite or silicon carbide, featuring a honeycomb structure with around 50 microscopic channels per square centimetre. These channels alternate being blocked at the entrance or exit, forcing exhaust gases through porous walls that trap soot and ash. The entire structure is housed in a stainless steel (INOX) casing.

The DPF filters exhaust gases by trapping particulates, which form a layer increasing filtration efficiency but also backpressure, which can reduce engine power when clogged.

• Passive Regeneration: Happens during low-load driving, where the engine management system heats exhaust gases via EGR valve adjustment, post-injection, and turbo boost to burn soot into CO2, water, and ash every 500-700 miles over 5-15 minutes.
• Active Regeneration: Triggered manually or automatically when conditions are insufficient (e.g., short trips). This process injects additional fuel post-combustion to increase temperature and burn off particulates.

Note that while the DPF is very effective, it may not capture all fine nanoparticles, some of which are carcinogenic.

Yes, the DPF is fitted primarily on the 1.6 HDi (DV6TED4) diesel engine models produced from March 2004 until end of production. Petrol engines do not feature a DPF as their exhaust temperatures enable near-instant regeneration of particulate matter.

Replacement costs can vary:

• New DPF unit (ceramic/cordierite): around £570 (€676) excluding labour.
• Complete change including labour: approximately £640 to £830 (€756-983), typically a 1-hour job and relatively easy.
• Garage service minimum price: from £900 (€1,072) depending on location.

The DPF is mounted immediately after the catalytic converter. There are detailed technical manuals and video tutorials available for DIY maintenance, though these are mostly on the Xsara platform but adaptable to the Picasso.

Proper maintenance includes:

• Using fuel additives designed to lower combustion temperature of particulates and facilitate regeneration.
• Regularly driving on the motorway or at highway speeds to promote passive regeneration.
• Using a diagnostic tool to manually activate active regeneration when required.

Consult a Citroën or PSA garage for precise diagnostics and servicing to prolong the life of your DPF.

High-quality brand-new DPFs manufactured with stainless INOX 409 and advanced monolith technology are available directly from trusted manufacturers offering a 3-year warranty. These DPFs meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications and European regulations, ensuring reliability and durability for your Xsara Picasso 1.6 HDi diesel model.

• They come with TÜV SÜD certification, the leading automotive certification in Europe.
• Many suppliers offer express delivery and installation guidance.

Always check compatibility with your vehicle’s VIN or reference to guarantee proper fitment and performance.

The DPFs for the Citroën Xsara Picasso generally come with a 3-year warranty, valid up to 100,000 kilometres. Warranty starts from the date of receipt of the product.

Delivery options typically include standard delivery within 3 to 8 working days for free in the UK and express delivery within 24 to 48 hours for an additional fee. Orders placed before noon are shipped the same day if in stock.

• Out-of-stock items can be manufactured within 2 working days and shipped express.
• Check supplier terms for bulk orders, professional discounts, and return policies.

For professional customers, many suppliers provide special accounts with discounts, loyalty points, and technical support.