What it is for
The particulate filter is a component of the exhaust system that traps the soot particles produced by combustion before they leave the tailpipe. Inside, it has a honeycomb structure with channels that the gases flow through: the particles stay in the filter walls.
DPF, FAP, GPF, OPF: what is the difference?
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) and FAP (filtre à particules, the French acronym) refer to the filter of diesel engines. GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) and OPF (Otto Particulate Filter) refer to the filter of petrol engines, fitted to many recent vehicles.
How it cleans itself
When driving conditions allow it, the filter burns off the accumulated soot: this is regeneration. It can happen passively, thanks to the high temperature of the exhaust gases, or actively, when the vehicle's control unit intervenes to raise the temperature. It does however require sufficiently long and regular trips.
Why it clogs
- Short trips and mostly urban use, which do not let the filter reach the required temperature
- Regenerations interrupted several times
- Ash build-up: non-combustible residues (for example from engine oil) that regeneration does not remove
- Faults in sensors, injectors or other engine components
What to do if it clogs
If the filter is clogged, depending on its condition a professional cleaning or regeneration may be considered, or replacement. Not every filter can be recovered: the case needs to be assessed. We do not offer removal or deactivation of the filter.
Our services
General information, updated 26 October 2026. Specific guidance for your vehicle is in its owner's manual and should be checked with a professional.