Volvo S90 Diesel Particulate Filter DPF 2 (Ii) (2016-2025)

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) on the Volvo S90 II, especially for 2.0TD engines (D4 or D4204T14, 190 CV / 140 kW or 234 CV Polestar), is a mandatory pollution control device located in the exhaust system after the catalytic converter. It traps fine soot particles from diesel combustion to reduce emissions and protect health.

The DPF physically retains microscopic particles through a ceramic honeycomb structure made of silicon carbide. The exhaust gases are forced through porous walls, capturing particles smaller than 2.5 microns.

Regeneration burns off accumulated soot in two ways :

• Passive regeneration: Happens naturally at 550-600°C during highway driving at speeds over 60 km/h.
• Active regeneration: Triggered by the vehicle's ECU every 700-1000 km if soot builds up, using post-fuel injection to heat the filter to 450-600°C while disabling the EGR valve, lasting about 10-20 minutes.

The DPF is fitted on Volvo S90 II models such as the 2.0TD AWD FAP (1969cc, 147 kW/200 CV, years 2016-2024) and the 2.0 D4 Polestar (234 CV, model D4204T14, 03/2018-12/2019).

The filter uses silicon carbide (SiC), providing durability and performance even under severe driving cycles like city traffic and short trips.

To prolong DPF service life and maintain efficient operation :

• Drive at highway speeds (>60 km/h) for 20-30 minutes monthly to enable passive regeneration.
• Use quality diesel fuel with additives to help dissolve soot deposits.
• Avoid frequent short urban trips which increase filter clogging risk.
• Regularly check and maintain the EGR valve functionality.
• Consider fuel additive products designed for DPF cleaning to assist soot removal.

A warning light on the dashboard may illuminate due to DPF blockage related to high differential pressure before and after the filter. Symptoms include:

• Reduced engine performance and power.
• Increased fuel consumption.
• Increased exhaust emissions and smell of diesel fuel.

Using an OBD scanner will help diagnose the condition accurately. Early detection allows for regeneration procedures before costly replacement is necessary.

Common issues stem from rapid soot accumulation during short city drives that prevent full regeneration.

• Clogging of the filter leading to warning lights and performance loss.
• Oil dilution by unburnt fuel due to frequent active regenerations, necessitating regular oil checks.
• Replacement costs for the DPF unit can be significant, including parts and professional installation.

Non-removal or tampering with the DPF is illegal and may result in fines and vehicle impoundment.

High-quality aftermarket DPFs compatible with Volvo S90 II diesel engines are available. These silicon carbide filters are designed for durability and efficient emission control under intensive use.

• They meet or exceed regulatory standards for emission control.
• Manufactured with stainless steel housings to resist impact and weather conditions.
• Supported by manufacturers offering warranties and technical support.

The Volvo S90 II diesel engine initiates automatic DPF regeneration during normal driving once certain conditions are met:

• The vehicle must be driven at speeds over 60 km/h
• The engine and exhaust system are at operating temperature
• Driving sessions last approximately 20 minutes or more between refuels

Under these conditions, the collected particles are burned off at high temperatures in the DPF, gradually restoring its filtering capacity without driver intervention. Active regenerations are timed by the ECU based on pressure sensor data and soot load.

Maintaining regular, appropriate driving habits thus helps achieve effective and efficient emission control with minimal risk of DPF-related issues.