Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) issues can be a concern for owners of 2011 VW Jetta TDI vehicles. Reports from mechanics indicate that some Jetta TDIs are experiencing DPF warning lights even after successful regeneration cycles, often linked to ash accumulation of around 240ml. This article delves into the complexities of DPF cleaning for your 2011 VW Jetta TDI, drawing upon expert insights and practical advice to help you understand and address this potential problem.
One TDIclub forum member, lonewolf69, shared an experience with a 2009 model triggering a DPF lamp at 250,000 miles, reporting 279 ml of ash. This firsthand account highlights that mileage and ash build-up are significant factors in DPF performance. Lonewolf69 opted to send their DPF for professional cleaning, keeping the oxidation catalytic converter (DOC) and NOX storage catalytic converter (SCR) attached, a common practice for maintaining system integrity.
DPFregeneration, a company specializing in DPF cleaning since 2009, offers valuable perspectives on this issue. They clean the entire DPF assembly, including the DOC and SCR if attached, without cutting components apart. Their process involves a series of baking and cleaning cycles to effectively remove ash. They have observed VW TDI DPFs requiring cleaning from 150,000 miles onwards, with one instance reaching an impressive 370,000 miles.
According to DPFregeneration, key indicators for considering a DPF clean include decreased MPG and more frequent regeneration cycles. While regeneration is designed to burn off soot, accumulated ash cannot be removed this way and gradually reduces DPF capacity. The DPF light illuminating despite successful regenerations suggests that the ash level has reached a critical point. Understanding the specific parameters that trigger this DPF warning would be beneficial for proactive maintenance.
The DPFregeneration cleaning process involves pre and post-cleaning flow tests at 1500 and 2000 CFM, along with weight measurements, to quantify the effectiveness of their service. They also offer a re-cleaning guarantee within a year if re-clogging occurs due to unresolved underlying issues. Currently priced at $400 (excluding shipping and mechanic fees), this service presents a cost-effective alternative to DPF replacement.
It’s crucial to note that a sooty tailpipe can indicate a cracked DPF, necessitating replacement rather than cleaning. While cleaning a cracked DPF might offer temporary relief, it’s not a long-term solution. DPFregeneration also emphasizes the responsible disposal of collected ash, highlighting its potentially hazardous composition and previous use in the chemical industry.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing DPF warning lights in your 2011 VW Jetta TDI despite regular regenerations, especially with higher mileage, DPF cleaning could be a viable solution. Monitoring your MPG and regeneration frequency can provide early indications. Professional DPF cleaning services offer a thorough and effective approach to restoring DPF function and extending its lifespan, ensuring your 2011 VW Jetta TDI continues to run efficiently and cleanly.
