How to Perform a Proper DPF Regeneration on a Diesel Truck

If you drive or maintain a diesel truck, understanding how to properly perform a DPF regeneration (regen) is essential. Regens are critical for keeping your diesel engine running clean and preventing costly repairs due to clogged Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs).

🚛 What Is a DPF Regeneration?

The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) captures and stores soot (particulate matter) from the exhaust. Over time, the filter gets full—and if not cleaned, it can choke engine performance or cause damage.

DPF regeneration is the process of burning off that accumulated soot by increasing exhaust temperatures. This happens in one of three ways:

• Passive regen – Occurs automatically during highway driving.

• Active regen – Triggered by the ECU when soot reaches a certain threshold.

• Forced regen – Manually started using a diagnostic tool (like DieselScanners’ software kits) when passive/active regen can’t complete.

🔧 Why Regens Matter

Failing to complete regens can lead to:

• Reduced engine power

• Frequent warning lights or limp mode

• Premature failure of your DPF, EGR, or turbo system

If your truck keeps prompting for a regen or struggles to finish one, it’s time to manually force it with the right tools.

🛠️ Tools Needed for a Forced Regen

• A diesel laptop with pro-level software like Diesel Tech, JPRO, or Detroit Diesel Diagnostic Link (DDDL).

• A Nexiq USB-Link 3 or RP1210-compliant adapter.

• Reliable power source and safe, ventilated location.

💡 DieselScanners kits come pre-loaded and tested—no setup required.

🔁 How to Force a Regen (General Steps)

1. Connect your diagnostic adapter to the truck and laptop.

2. Open your diagnostic software (e.g., JPRO, Detroit DDL, Diesel Tech).

3. Navigate to the aftertreatment system section.

4. Initiate the Forced Regen via the menu.

5. Monitor exhaust temps, soot %, and regen status.

6. Wait until regen is complete and system resets.

🚨 Never leave a regen unattended. Engine RPMs rise and exhaust gets extremely hot.

🔎 How Often Should You Regen?

The need for regens depends on:

• Drive habits (highway vs. stop/start)

• Engine load and idle time

• Soot sensor condition

On average, passive or active regens should occur every 300–500 miles. Forced regens should be rare—if frequent, you may need to diagnose deeper issues.

Get the Right Tools to Run Your Own Regen

Instead of paying a shop $150+ per regen, take control. DieselScanners offers fully set-up laptops with:
✅ Dealer-level software
✅ Nexiq USB-Link 3
✅ Lifetime support
✅ Step-by-step video tutorials

👉 Shop Diagnostic Kits