New MOT rules for diesel particulate filter testing 06 December 2013

MOT tests for all diesel vehicles – including vans and trucks – are to be tightened to check that exhaust filters are still in place, according Roads Minister Robert Goodwill.

From February 2014, garages and testing stations will be required check for a DPF (diesel particulate filter) in the inspection of the exhaust system.

The vehicle will automatically fail its MOT if the filter had been fitted as standard but is found to be no longer present.

Goodwill notes that some firms offer services to remove the filter, claiming it will improve fuel consumption.

That's because filters need to be regenerated regularly through burning the soot to gas at high temperatures. If not carried out properly, regeneration can lead to a build up of soot, which can affect performance.

However, he says, it is an offence to drive a vehicle that has been modified in this way, as it will no longer meet the emissions standards the car achieved when it was approved for sale in the UK.

"I am very concerned that vehicles are being modified in a way that is clearly detrimental to people's health and undoes the hard work car manufacturers have taken to improve emissions standards," states Goodwill.

"It has become apparent the government had to intervene to clarify the position on particulate filter removal, given the unacceptable negative impact on air quality," he continues.

"This change to the MOT tests makes it clear – if you have this filter removed from your car it will fail the test."

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Department for Transport

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