How to Regenerate DPF with an Autel Scanner

The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) is the core device of the diesel vehicle exhaust treatment system. It is mainly used to capture and purify particulate pollutants (such as carbon soot, unburned hydrocarbons, etc.) in the exhaust gas. Its filtration efficiency can reach 70%-98%.

Under today's stringent environmental regulations, diesel particulate filters (DPFs) provide a balance between performance and emissions control for diesel vehicles. As technology continues to advance to meet global emission standards, maintaining efficient DPF operation requires not only good driving habits but also regular maintenance.

So, how does DPF regeneration actually work? What role does the Autel scanner play in it? And how long does the whole process typically take? Let's take a look.

What Does DPF Mean?

DPF Meaning Explained

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) is an abbreviation for diesel particulate filter, specifically designed for diesel vehicle exhaust treatment systems. Its core function is to reduce exhaust particulate matter emissions through physical filtration and chemical conversion.

The main components of the DPF system.

The DPF captures carbon particles in exhaust gas through its surface and internal honeycomb structure, effectively removing 70%-90% of these particles. Its operating principle is similar to a "mask for the exhaust system," effectively collecting them after they are released.

Definition and Function of DPF Regeneration

DPF regeneration (Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration) is the process of removing carbon particles accumulated in the diesel particulate filter (DPF) through high-temperature oxidation or chemical reactions to restore its filtering performance.

When excessive carbon particle accumulation within the DPF increases exhaust backpressure, affecting engine power output, regeneration is necessary to burn the particles into CO₂.

Types of DPF regeneration

1. Passive Regeneration

   When a vehicle is traveling at high speed (e.g., above 60 km/h for 20 minutes), the exhaust temperature reaches above 500°C, and the carbon particles automatically burn. This process relies on the catalytic reaction of oxidizing substances in the exhaust gas and does not require additional energy consumption.

2. Active Regeneration
   • Driving Regeneration:

     If the yellow DPF indicator on the instrument panel is on, particulate matter accumulation is within the permitted range, but auxiliary combustion is required. Keep the vehicle moving and increase the engine speed to above 2500 rpm for 15 minutes.

     

     The DPF indicator comes on to signal a required regeneration.

   • Parking Regeneration:

     When the yellow DPF light flashes or the instrument panel indicates that parked regeneration is required, park the vehicle in a safe, open area, shift the vehicle into neutral, and apply the parking brake.

     After starting the engine at idle speed, press (or hold) the DPF regeneration switch. The engine speed will automatically increase to approximately 2000–2500 rpm. The entire process typically takes 40–60 minutes.

3. Service Regeneration

   When the DPF is severely clogged (the red indicator light is on) or active regeneration fails, a professional Autel scanner is required.

Causes and Effects of DPF Light On

Causes

The most common causes of the particulate filter light on the dashboard coming on:

1. Driving too many short distances
2. Defective fuel injector, incorrect diesel injection, poor ignition
3. Internally damaged particle filter

Effects of DPF Clogged

• Fault light on the dashboard
• The car smells bad when driving
• Oil level rises
• Car gets stuck or bumps
• Lack of motivation
• Heavy, buzzing sound
• Too much soot/smoke

When the DPF light appears on your dashboard, you can use an Autel OBD II scanner to read the code for DPF regeneration, along with other common DTCs such as P2002, P242F, and P2452.

How to Regenerate DPF with Autel Scanner?

Preparation before DPF regeneration

Before regenerating the DPF, different preparations are required depending on the type of regeneration. If the above active regeneration fails, prepare to use the Autel scanner. Before regeneration begins, the following preparations need to be made:

• An Autel scanner that supports DPF regeneration
• Sufficient fuel
• Park your vehicle in a safe and open area
• Put the vehicle in neutral or park gear and apply the parking brake

Performing a DPF regeneration using an Autel scanner

Step-by-Step DPF Regeneration with Autel Scanner

1. Connect the OBD II scanner correctly

   Before regenerating the DPF, it is important to properly connect the vehicle to the scanner. It is recommended to use a main cable through the OBD II port to maintain a stable connection.

2. Select the service function to enter and confirm the vehicle model
   • Path selection: Service > DPF > Select the correct vehicle model/Auto Scan > Hot Functions > DPF service regeneration
   • Note:The path selection may vary depending on the vehicle model. The vehicle model can be selected manually or automatically. Ensure that no other fault codes are present in the vehicle when performing the above operations.
   

   DPF Regeneration Menu Path on Autel Scanner

3. Perform DPF regeneration

   After selecting the above path, you can start DPF regeneration. The Autel scanner will prompt that the exhaust port temperature and engine speed will increase. Make sure the vehicle is in braking state and there is no one near the exhaust port.The entire regeneration process may take about an hour.

4. Complete DPF regeneration

   After the DPF regeneration is complete, check that the DPF light on the vehicle's dashboard has gone out and that the DPF system has returned to normal. Then take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is working properly.

The video below shows an Autel MK808 DPF regeneration on a 2010 Chevy. You can refer to the process for reference. Other Autel scanners offer the same easy-to-use navigation:

How Long Does a Regen Take?

DPF regeneration time generally depends on the vehicle's condition and the regeneration method:

• Passive regeneration (automatically performed at highway speeds): This process is longer and may take over 1–2 hours, but the driver is unaware of it.
• Active regeneration (triggered by the vehicle itself, which heats up the fuel injection and burns particulate matter): This process typically takes 20–40 minutes.
• Forced/parked regeneration (manually triggered using an Autel scanner or the vehicle's onboard system): This process typically takes 40–60 minutes, although some models may require faster or longer.

⚠️ The engine speed will automatically increase during regeneration; do not shut down the engine or terminate the regeneration process.

Autel Scanner Recommendation

Autel MaxiDiag MD906 Pro

The Autel MD906 Pro, the latest handheld diagnostic scanner, includes 11 common service functions: oil reset, break breathing, injector, SAS, throttle, EPB, BMS, TPMS, DPF, AFS headlamp, and air/air conditioning. It can meet basic daily diagnostic and maintenance needs.

$24 OFF

Autel MaxiDiag MD906 Pro

$275.00

$299.00

2026 Newest Professional Scan Tool | Enhanced Mode 6 Diagnostics | All System AutoScan | Support 11 service functions | Support OBDII protocols & all 10 OBDII test modes

Learn More Buy Now

Autel MaxiCheck MX808S

The Autel MX808S is an entry-level diagnostic scanner with two-way control capabilities, supporting full-system diagnostics and 28+ maintenance services. It is more suitable for DIY enthusiasts and small repair shops.

$210 OFF

Autel MaxiSys MS906Pro

$389.00

$599.00

2026 Autel Entry-Level Diagnostic Scanner with OE-Level All System Diagnostics, Bi-Directional Control & 36+ Services

Learn More Buy Now

Autel MaxiSys MS906Pro

The Autel MS906Pro is an eight-inch flatbed diagnostic scanner powered by an octa-core processor and the Android 10.0 operating system. In addition to supporting bidirectional control, it also supports ECU coding and 36+ maintenance and service functions. It is suitable for professional repairers and small and medium-sized repair shops.

$340 OFF

Autel MaxiSys MS906Pro

$1,059.00

$1,499.00

2026 Autel Professional Diagnostic Scanner with Advanced ECU Coding, Bi-Directional Control & DoIP/CAN FD Support

Learn More Buy Now

Summary

The DPF system plays a vital role in your car. When the DPF warning light comes on, it's extremely dangerous to continue driving. Stop in a safe place and regenerate the vehicle.

Whether you use a car diagnostic tool like an Autel scanner or manually initiate DPF regeneration, both are correct. However, if you prefer not to DIY, you can also seek help from a professional at a dealership or repair shop.

At the same time, in daily life, we should also pay attention to the maintenance and care of the DPF system to keep the vehicle running efficiently and avoid expensive repairs.