How to Regen a Cummins Diesel

Steps to Perform Regeneration Using Universal Diagnostics Software:

  1. Connect the Diagnostic Tool:

    • Plug the Universal Diagnostics vehicle interface into the vehicle's diagnostic port 

    • Ensure the vehicle’s ignition is in the “On” position, but the engine doesn’t need to be running for the diagnostic tool to communicate. Make sure all dash lights are on.

  2. Launch Universal Diagnostics Software:

    • Open the Universal Diagnostics software on your laptop or PC. Ensure your Universal Diagnostics software is up to date to ensure full compatibility with your vehicle.

  3. Select the Vehicle:

    • Once the software is open, you will need to select the correct vehicle make and model. The Universal Diagnostics system will attempt to detect the vehicle or you may need to manually input this information.

    • Confirm that it identifies the correct vehicle and system.

  4. Run a Vehicle Health Check (Optional):

    • Before performing a regeneration, it's a good idea to run a diagnostic check to ensure the vehicle doesn’t have any other outstanding issues that might interfere with the regeneration process.

    • In the software, navigate to the "Vehicle Health" or "Fault Codes" section to check for any active faults.

  5. Navigate to the Regeneration Function:

    • In the Universal Diagnostics software, go to the "Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration" option. This can typically be found under the "Emissions" or "Engine Management" section of the software.

    • If your vehicle is equipped with a DPF, the software should allow you to access the regeneration feature.

  6. Prepare for Regeneration:

    • Follow the prompts in the software to ensure that the vehicle is ready for regeneration. This might include verifying that the engine temperature is at an appropriate level (usually between 160°F and 180°F), the vehicle is in park (or neutral for manual transmissions), and there are no active fault codes that would prevent regeneration.

  7. Initiate Regeneration:

    • Once the vehicle is ready, click the "Start Regeneration" button in Universal Diagnostics.

    • The software will communicate with the vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) to initiate the regeneration process. This involves the vehicle’s exhaust system reaching high temperatures to burn off soot from the DPF.

  8. Monitor the Regeneration Process:

    • Universal Diagnostics will display the real-time progress of the regeneration process, including exhaust temperatures and other important parameters.

    • During this time, the vehicle’s engine will be running at high RPMs and the DPF filter will go through a cleaning cycle.

  9. Completion of Regeneration:

    • Once the regeneration is completed, Universal Diagnostics will notify you that the process is finished. The DPF filter will be cleared of accumulated soot, and the vehicle’s emissions system should be restored to normal operation.

    • Ensure that the software confirms no issues are present and the DPF is cleared.

  10. Disconnect the Diagnostic Tool:

  • After the regeneration is complete, safely disconnect the Universal Diagnostics vehicle interface from the diagnostic port and turn off the ignition.

  • The DPF should now be clean, and the vehicle is ready for operation.

Important Notes:

  • Do not interrupt the regeneration process: Stopping the regeneration mid-way could cause damage to the DPF or other engine components.

  • Regeneration conditions: Make sure the vehicle is operating within the required conditions (e.g., adequate temperature, no active fault codes) before attempting regeneration.

  • Engine Monitoring: If there are any issues or error codes before or after the regeneration, address them first as they could prevent successful regeneration.

By following these steps, you can successfully perform a DPF regeneration using Universal Diagnostics software.