What is Forced Regeneration?
Regeneration, or regen, of the DPF filter is the process that burns the soot accumulation that is inside the DPF filter. Educating yourself on what a forced regeneration is and how it works will help you understand your aftertreatment system better.
Forced regeneration is performed when a diagnostic scan tool starts the regeneration process. The forced regeneration overrides the soot accumulation or soot levels that are calculated in the ECM. The DPF soot load could be too high for a passive and active regeneration to occur causing the condition where it is required to perform a forced regeneration. A forced regeneration is the highest level of regeneration processes and you will need a special diagnostic tool to start this process.
If I replace a DPF Differential Pressure sensor or NOx Sensor, do I need to perform a regeneration?
Yes, some trucks do require you to perform a forced regeneration before it will clear certain fault codes. The reason is, is that the ECU wants to see that a forced regeneration is performed in order to clear the codes.
Example: 2013 Volvo D13 – SPN 4094 FMI 1 – SCR Conversion Efficiency low – A forced regeneration is required to clear this fault code. The measurement of PPM (parts per million) between the Inlet NOx 1 sensor & Outlet NOx 2 are out of range and causing this fault code. It’s recommended to check the EGR, NOx Sensors, to make sure the PPM is within spec in order for this fault code will clear. The ECU will make this fault code go inactive ONLY when a forced regeneration passes with the values in the required range. This is an example where a fault code requires a forced regeneration.
How much does this cost?
A forced regeneration can be performed by any service shop with the appropriate diagnostic software. The cost for a forced regeneration varies. Generally, it is between $300-$700 depending on the technician’s required diagnostic time and the length of time your DPF regeneration lasts.
How can I do a forced regeneration?
There are various tools manufactured by every manufacture to perform diagnostics. We always recommend using a service tool that fits your business operations.
Is there a way I can save money and do a forced regeneration myself?
OTR Performance has developed a product that will perform a forced DPF regen.
OTR Diagnostics allows you to perform a forced DPF regen with your mobile device. You'll also be able to perform other advanced diagnostic commands, such as resetting the aftertreatment system. With OTR Diagnostics you can also read and reset fault codes, view history, view live data, and so much more.
How often do I need to run a forced regeneration?
It all depends on the fault codes associated with the aftertreatment system.
As a preventable measure to ensure your DPF filters are cleaned you can do this on a bi-weekly or monthly basis.
You’ll also hear us use the word regening often. It’s not a commonly used word, so we thought we would break it down for you guys: