Is an additive necessary to avoid a blockage in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?

[CrownChikk]

Greetings, individuals.

I have lately acquired an F40 120d. I have a strong affinity for the automobile, but, I am anticipating a potential issue that may arise in the future and I would want to be prepared for it.

The vehicle is powered by a diesel engine.
I am located within a 3-minute driving distance from my workplace.
The majority of the stores in my vicinity can be reached by car within a one-minute trip.
The distance to my nearby grocery store is a 10-minute car ride.
The engine fails to reach the desired operating temperature while travelling to any of the above destinations.
It is evident that it has a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

I acknowledge that I should have opted for a gasoline-powered vehicle. However, the only gasoline options available were the models with a 135 engine. Given the location where I reside, such a vehicle would have been very attractive to thieves.

Previously, I would often use my partner's former 320d vehicle on a biweekly basis for the said purpose. We did not encounter any problems with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), nevertheless, after a couple of years, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MAS light) began to appear sporadically. Subsequently, the timing chain malfunctioned, prompting her to trade it in for an X3. Consequently, the outcome of the situation remains uncertain.

The one consolation I possess is that I often commute to a nearby hamlet, covering a distance of 20 minutes each way, three times during a span of two weeks. The majority of the speed restrictions throughout the route are set at 30mph and 40mph, with the exception of a brief segment when the speed limit increases to 50mph for about one minute. Due to heavy traffic, the travel involves several stops and starts rather than being a continuous run.

Will this be sufficient to avert DPF blockage?

One of my colleagues reported using a gasoline additive that has effectively prevented any issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Unfortunately, I am now on leave due to COVID-19 and unable to enquire more about it.

Do you believe that I need an additive? Will a 40-minute round journey three times a week suffice?

Thank you.

[Mantelle]

None of the chemicals will effectively preserve your diesel particulate filter (DPF). Only engage in extended periods of continuous running without any pauses and with a completely warmed-up engine.

[Talentrews]

Could 20 minutes be sufficient?
Prior to starting, it is necessary for the engine to reach the desired temperature. Additionally, when driving, it is advisable to use a lower gear in order to maintain the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) at roughly 3,000.
And have a hopeful attitude.
When my vehicle has only been used for short distances for a while, I drive it for 20 minutes in one direction and then return, maintaining high engine revolutions. So far, this method has been effective for me.

[KnightNewscast]

Talentrews that is a misconception about the practice of maintaining high engine revolutions.Consistent and controlled driving is all that is required.

[MamaKiddo]

The website the-dpf-doctor.com offers a wide range of agents that are skilled in the professional cleaning of the diesel particulate filter (DPF). These agents use a direct injection method to clean the DPF, without adding any substances to the fuel, oil, or intake system. In addition, they conduct a comprehensive diagnostic assessment to identify any potential factors contributing to the accumulation. If I were to purchase another diesel vehicle, I would willingly spend £100 to ensure that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is thoroughly cleaned. In addition, they will have the capability to suggest a gasoline additive, if one is available.

Another concern during short excursions is the potential for oil pollution resulting from inadequate regenerations.

[Talentrews]

Assuming you are correct, Rasa, I engage in this behaviour to maintain the high temperature of the engine and exhaust. However, this is only a personal preference on my part, expressed humorously.

[Mantelle]

I feel the same way. If my travel is 5 minutes, I will extend it to 20 minutes in order to adequately warm up the engine and allow it to accelerate on a less congested route or dual carriageway.

[Adv3nture]

Once a month, I would just take my car out and drive on a major road or highway for about an hour. This would help warm up the engine and ensure that it stays in motion and maintains its optimal temperature. It is likely to be less expensive than an addition ... and far more enjoyable!

Alternatively, you might do an Italian tune-up by vigorously driving the vehicle for a duration of thirty minutes.

[Mantelle]

Investing in cleaning a dead diesel particulate filter (DPF) is futile since it will not revive its functionality. Similarly, a cleansed DPF will have a limited lifespan. Additives and other liquids are included with the intention of generating profit. This is only a marketing ploy with no other purpose.

[Bleakerje]

Utilise diagnostic tools to monitor the level of particulate matter accumulation in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Once the DPF approaches its maximum capacity, go on an extended journey.

[Mantelle]

It would be desirable to have such capability included into the idrive system as a standard feature. I am still astonished that the e60 model does not have a temperature gauge, which is quite astonishing.

[Tearcarl]

None of them have a temperature gauge anymore. My E60 had lines by the rpm counter that would change based on the engine temperature. Does your version lack that feature?

[Mantelle]

I haven't observed it, to be frank. It is. The vehicle is now inoperable.