DPF Clean Team director Cameron Bryce says the number of enquiries it has received for blocked DPFs on these vehicle models amounts to nearly half (43.5%) of enquiries on its top 10 list.
He explains that the firm has analysed its database of vehicle makes and models referred for DPF issues – most of which come via fleet managers.
Among vans referred for issues with a blocked DPF, catalytic converter or SCR (selective catalytic reduction) silencer unit, the Sprinter accounts for 22% of enquiries, closely followed by Volkswagen Crafter vans, which comprise 12% of all enquiries.
Meanwhile, only 5% of after-treatment enquiries are attributed to Ford’s Transit.
Car fleets name the Mazda 6 as the most problematic vehicle fitted with a DPF, with 21% of enquiries coming from this model. The BMW 120, 320 and 520 series come a close second with 13%. BMW 330 and 530 models also made the top five.
However, Bruce insist that it’s not just about the make and model of veicle, but the way a DPF, catalytic converter or silencer is maintained.
“It’s not always a case that the vehicle has a poorly performing unit fitted, but that the driver or fleet manager is not paying due attention to its maintenance,” he exlains
“Fleet vehicles doing lots of short journeys are more likely to experience an issue because a unit is not given the required time to regenerate,” he continues.
“Our advice to fleet managers is to seek help immediately whenever the DPF warning light is illuminated on the dashboard – because the more you leave a problem, the worse it can get.”
And he adds that diesel vehicles need to be driven on regular long journeys and have their after-treatment systems checked and cleaned regularly.
“DPF cleans are a lot more cost effective and quicker than sourcing a replacement – and removing the filter will now cause a vehicle to fail an MOT, as well as being illegal.”