DPF warning light (diesel)
Also called: diesel particulate filter light
The diesel particulate filter is clogging and needs to regenerate.
What it means
The DPF light means the soot filter in the exhaust is filling up and needs a regeneration, where the engine burns the soot off. This usually happens on its own at highway speed. Lots of idling or short trips keep it from finishing.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
Solid light, normal power. A 20 to 30 minute highway drive, or a parked regen if your truck supports it, usually clears it.
Schedule a repair
It keeps coming back or flashes. Book a visit. Something may be making extra soot.
Stop and get help
Power derate, stop lamp, or heavy smoke. Stop driving. A badly clogged DPF can overheat and crack.
Common causes
- Short trips or idling
- Regeneration interrupted
- Faulty DPF pressure sensor or hose
- Injector, EGR or boost problem making extra soot
- Ash buildup at high mileage
What to do right now
- Drive at steady highway speed for 20 to 30 minutes
- Check that no regen inhibit switch is on
- If it won't clear, get it diagnosed
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the dpf warning light (diesel) mean?
The diesel particulate filter is clogging and needs to regenerate. The DPF light means the soot filter in the exhaust is filling up and needs a regeneration, where the engine burns the soot off. This usually happens on its own at highway speed. Lots of idling or short trips keep it from finishing.
Can I keep driving with the dpf warning light (diesel) on?
Green: Solid light, normal power. A 20 to 30 minute highway drive, or a parked regen if your truck supports it, usually clears it. Yellow: It keeps coming back or flashes. Book a visit. Something may be making extra soot. Red: Power derate, stop lamp, or heavy smoke. Stop driving. A badly clogged DPF can overheat and crack.
What causes the dpf warning light (diesel)?
Common causes: short trips or idling; regeneration interrupted; faulty DPF pressure sensor or hose; injector, EGR or boost problem making extra soot.
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