About diesel exhausts:
Diesel-powered cars, utes or vans use a different exhaust configuration to standard petrol vehicles. This is because diesel fuel is burnt differently, and needs an exhaust system that can remove soot and other matter from the exhaust emissions.
An important part of the diesel exhaust is the diesel particulate filter. The purpose of the diesel particulate filter (or DPF) is to remove harmful soot particles from your exhaust, reducing harmful emissions and preventing blockages from occurring over time.
As the exhaust reaches higher temperatures, the soot particles are burnt off the particulate filter. This allows it to stay clean. This system is called passive regeneration and relies on the exhaust temperature remaining at a certain level.
If the engine is running under a very low load, the exhaust temperature may fall to a point where the soot cannot be burnt off the particulate filter. In order to prevent the filter from being overloaded, additional fuel is injected into the engine. The fuel burns, causing the exhaust to stay at a suitable temperature. This system is called active regeneration and is controlled by a series of sensors in your exhaust system.
Learn more about particulate filter regeneration >
Common causes of exhaust issues in diesel vehicles:
Below are some of the most common causes of exhaust issues in diesel cars, trucks and vans.
- Damaged catalytic converter – The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful exhaust gases into less harmful ones. A damaged or clogged catalytic converter can cause the engine to run poorly, produce excessive exhaust emissions, and fail to meet emissions standards.
- Blocked diesel particulate filter – Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) are designed to trap and remove particulate matter from the exhaust gases. If the DPF becomes clogged with soot, it can cause a decrease in engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and increased exhaust emissions.
- Leaks – Exhaust leaks can occur at any point in the exhaust system, from the exhaust manifold to the tailpipe. These leaks can cause a decrease in engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and increased exhaust emissions.
Symptoms of a faulty diesel exhaust:
- Increased fuel consumption – Problems in the particulate filter or catalytic converter can cause your car to use more fuel than normal.
- Decreased engine performance – If your diesel engine is running poorly or lacks power, it could be due to a problem with the exhaust system. This could be caused by a clogged or damaged exhaust pipe, muffler, or catalytic converter.
- Increased smoke from exhaust – Black smoke is often caused by your car burning too much fuel. Excess levels of white or blue smoke can point to serious engine problems. Learn more about smoky exhausts >
- Strange exhaust noises – A faulty diesel exhaust can also cause unusual engine noises, such as rattling or hissing sounds. These noises could be a sign of a damaged exhaust system component, such as a loose heat shield or cracked exhaust manifold.
- Strong smell coming from exhaust – A faulty diesel exhaust can also produce strong exhaust odors, such as a burning or sulfur smell. This could be caused by a number of issues, including a damaged exhaust pipe or a malfunctioning catalytic converter.
- DPF light is on – Many diesel-powered cars, utes or vans have a dashboard light which will illuminate if the diesel particulate filter becomes blocked. A blocked filter will occur if it is unable to regenerate itself. This can happen due to faulty sensors, a rich fuel mixture or constantly low exhaust temperatures.
Diesel Exhaust & Particulate Filter Repairs in Hamilton
Is your diesel car, ute or van in need of an exhaust repair? If so, we can help you!
When you bring your cars, utes or vans to Grimmer Motors, we can activate you cars, utes or vans diesel particulate filter system with a scan tool to clean it out and turn off the DPF light on your dash. This will remove exhaust blockages and allow your exhaust system to remain clean. We also offer replacements and repairs for catalytic converters, mufflers and all other exhaust components.
For high quality diesel exhaust repair in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!