Mercedes GLE-Class Diesel Particulate Filter DPF

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on Mercedes GLE-Class diesel models, such as the GLE 350 d 4MATIC or GLE 350 CDI BT 4MATIC, is a pollution control device located in the exhaust line after the catalytic converter and before the silencer. Its main purpose is to trap up to 99% of the fine soot particles produced by diesel combustion, which are harmful to health and the environment.

The DPF uses a ceramic body divided into microscopic channels through which exhaust gases pass. Soot particles such as carbon, hydrocarbons, and sulfates get trapped inside these channels. Over time, trapped particles form a layer which improves filtration efficiency but increases back pressure if not cleaned.

There are several types of DPF regeneration processes to clean trapped soot particles:

• Passive regeneration: Occurs at high exhaust temperatures (550-600°C) during regular motorway driving, burning trapped particles into ash and gases like CO2 and water vapor.
• Active regeneration: Initiated by the vehicle’s computer if high back pressure is detected, injecting additional fuel post-combustion to raise temperature and burn off soot. Typically lasts 5-15 minutes every 500-700 km.
• Use of additives: Some diesel models use additives to lower the necessary regeneration temperature by about 100°C.

Recent diesel GLE models with OM 656 engines combine DPF and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with AdBlue to also reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Common problems include clogging especially in urban driving with frequent idling or low load conditions. Symptoms often show as loss of power, warning lights on the dashboard, and elevated back pressure levels. Official Mercedes regeneration via diagnostic tools involves forced post-injection burning but may risk oil contamination.

To reduce the risk of DPF issues, consider these maintenance tips:

• Use high-quality diesel fuel with suitable additives.
• Avoid frequent short trips and extended idling in city traffic.
• Regularly check and maintain the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve.

These measures help maintain optimal DPF function and reduce soot buildup.

There are several maintenance solutions to manage DPF condition:

• Non-disassembly cleaning: Using products like Xenum DPF Cleaner combined with diagnostic regeneration to reduce soot load and differential pressure quickly (5-15 minutes).
• Disassembly cleaning: Mechanical or chemical cleaning after removing the DPF physically, sometimes adapted from similar Mercedes diesel models.
• Manual forced regeneration: Using diagnostic tools to initiate a forced regeneration cycle, often followed by driving at high engine speed for 15-30 minutes.
• Replacement: Installing a new original DPF filter if cleaning is ineffective; these parts are available with certified quality and come with a 3-year warranty.

Choose the method appropriate to your DPF condition and vehicle usage.

Petrol models of the Mercedes GLE can be equipped with a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF), although this is less common than for diesel versions. GPF works similarly to the DPF but benefits from exhaust gases reaching high temperatures more easily, allowing near real-time regeneration.

For the best reliability and performance, it is recommended to select new certified DPFs manufactured with advanced stainless steel and high-grade monoliths meeting or exceeding original equipment standards. These parts come with a 3-year warranty and are designed for optimal pollution reduction and durability.

Opting for high-quality original replacement filters helps restore your vehicle’s emission system efficiency and supports environmental protection.