Ford Tourneo Diesel Particulate Filter DPF

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on Ford Tourneo diesel models, including Tourneo Connect and Grand Tourneo Connect, is an essential part of the exhaust emissions control system. It captures soot particles from exhaust gases to reduce pollution. The DPF is installed on the exhaust line after the catalytic converter and is typically made from ceramic or cordierite materials for high heat resistance and durability.

Key Ford Tourneo diesel models with specific DPF systems include:

• Ford Tourneo Connect 1.6 TDCi (engine T1GA) produced between 09/2013 and 09/2014, fitted with a combined DPF and catalytic converter compliant with Euro 5 standards.
• Ford Grand Tourneo Connect 1.6 TDCi (T1GA), with DPF pricing ranging from approximately £320 to £680 depending on supplier and quality.
• Various other diesel Ford Tourneo models, including the Courier, with new DPF options available with or without integrated catalytic converters.

Ford’s DPF includes key components such as a direct fuel injector for soot burn-off, a temperature sensor, a glow plug before the turbocharger turbine, and a differential pressure sensor with a single hose connection.

The DPF regenerates automatically by burning off accumulated soot through a controlled injection of diesel fuel, which raises exhaust temperatures. This process helps maintain efficient filter operation and can cause noticeable engine or exhaust noise changes during regeneration.

• The differential pressure sensor monitors filter clogging by comparing pressure before and after the filter.
• Proper regeneration is crucial to prevent excessive soot buildup and potential engine damage.

If sensor issues or other faults occur, the vehicle’s diagnostic system may display warning codes, and regeneration might not fully clear the blockage.

Common issues with the DPF on Ford Tourneo diesel vehicles include:

• Frequent clogging caused by a dirty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, excessive carbon deposits on the cylinder head or intake, or faulty glow plugs.
• Persistent warning codes related to filter blockage, soot accumulation, or abnormal temperature readings even after attempted regenerations.
• Reduced engine performance, unusual exhaust sounds, and possible restrictions in exhaust flow.
• Sensor malfunctions or blocked pressure hoses impairing proper diagnosis and regeneration.

A full diagnostic using an OBD scanner specific to Ford is recommended to reset adaptation values and address underlying causes.

Maintenance steps include:

• Allow automatic or forced regeneration via diagnostic tools to clear soot after driving sufficient motorway distances.
• Clean the DPF combined with servicing the EGR valve, intake, and cylinder head for a more effective soot removal.
• Replacement is required if clogging or damage persists. Use OEM-quality or equivalent new DPFs for interchange.
• Use a Ford-specific OBD scanner to reset DPF and related sensor values after maintenance or replacement.

Access to the DPF is typically via the exhaust line after the catalytic converter; professional installation is recommended.

Yes, driving on the motorway at sustained higher speeds and engine loads raises exhaust temperatures needed for DPF regeneration.

Short urban trips or city driving may not generate sufficient heat for proper soot burn-off, leading to clogging and warning lights.

• It is generally recommended to drive for at least 20 minutes on a motorway at around 50-60 mph to initiate automatic regeneration.
• Regular motorway driving helps maintain DPF health and prevent clogging issues.

However, persistent issues require professional diagnostic and possibly forced regeneration with an OBD tool.

DPF lifespan depends heavily on driving habits. Primarily short trips may cause premature soot buildup since low engine and exhaust temperatures hinder regeneration.

• This can reduce DPF life significantly and increase the risk of clogging and damage to the engine and exhaust system.
• It is advised to incorporate frequent longer drives on motorways to maintain DPF functionality.

Proper maintenance and regular diagnostics are essential to maximize DPF longevity, typically covering 100,000 km or more under suitable driving conditions.

If you notice warnings related to the DPF, soot accumulation, or temperatures, or if the engine revs oddly—which may indicate an ongoing regeneration — follow these steps:

• Drive your vehicle on a motorway for about 20 minutes at moderate speed to allow regeneration.
• If the warning persists, consult an expert mechanic with appropriate Ford diagnostic tools to read fault codes and reset system values.
• Check and clean pressure sensor hoses and inspect EGR valves and glow plugs to address root causes.
• A faulty or blocked sensor may prevent successful regeneration and cause repeated warnings or drivability issues.

Early diagnosis and proper maintenance help avoid costly replacements and ensure your Ford Tourneo’s engine and emissions system operate efficiently.