DPF Doctor Assessment in Leominster, Herefordshire
When a DPF warning light comes on, most drivers want one thing: a clear answer. At Oldfields Garage, our DPF assessment in Herefordshire is designed to quickly identify diesel particulate filter problems before they turn into costly repairs. We explain why your DPF is blocking and what needs to be done to fix it properly.
Rather than guessing or jumping straight to cleaning, we take a measured approach. As a result, you avoid unnecessary work and repeat problems. In short, we diagnose first and then advise you honestly on the best next step.
Call Oldfields Garage Services Ltd: 01568 612436
Book online now
Visit us: Unit C1-C2, Brunel Road, Leominster Enterprise Park, Leominster, HR6 0LX
What is a DPF Doctor Assessment?
A DPF Doctor Assessment is a structured diagnostic process. It looks beyond fault codes to understand what is really happening inside your engine and emissions system.
During the assessment, we combine several checks, including:
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Physical inspection of key components
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Differential pressure testing
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Non-intrusive system checks
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Full diagnostics with live data interpretation
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Clear conclusions on the correct repair route
Because the DPF is often reacting to another issue, this process helps us identify the cause rather than just the symptom.
What does a DPF do?
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is fitted to diesel vehicles to trap soot particles from the exhaust. Over time, the filter fills up and must clean itself through a process known as regeneration.
However, problems arise when regeneration cannot complete or when excessive soot is being produced. In those cases, the DPF eventually becomes blocked and triggers warning lights or reduced performance.
Common DPF symptoms we see
Many customers across Leominster and Herefordshire book in after noticing one or more of the following:
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DPF warning light staying on
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Engine management light
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Limp mode or reduced power
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Poor fuel economy
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Cooling fans running after the engine is switched off
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Frequent short journeys
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Messages showing failed or incomplete regenerations
If these symptoms sound familiar, an assessment is the sensible next step.
What to do when your DPF light comes on
Sometimes a DPF warning light simply means the car needs the right driving conditions to regenerate. In those situations, a steady drive at around 60mph for 20 minutes can help.
However, if the light stays on, keeps returning, or the vehicle loses power, there is usually an underlying fault. At that point, continued driving can make matters worse, so proper testing is recommended.
Our DPF assessment process at Oldfields Garage
Every DPF assessment in Herefordshire customers booking at Oldfields Garage follows a clear and consistent process. This allows us to make decisions based on evidence, not assumptions.
Depending on the vehicle, the assessment may include:
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Visual checks for leaks, damage, or obvious faults
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DPF pressure readings compared against manufacturer data
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Live data analysis to see how the system behaves while running
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Correct interpretation of fault codes rather than simple code clearing
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Identification of driving pattern issues versus mechanical or control faults
Once testing is complete, we explain the results clearly. From there, we agree the next step and confirm costs before any further work begins.
When DPF cleaning is appropriate, and when it is not
DPF cleaning can be effective in the right circumstances. For example, it may help when soot loading is high and the underlying cause has already been addressed.
That said, cleaning alone is not a cure-all. If a fault upstream is still producing excess soot or preventing regeneration, the DPF will block again. In cases where the filter is damaged or beyond recovery, we will be upfront and discuss realistic options.
Cost of a DPF Doctor Assessment
The DPF Doctor Assessment is offered at a fixed price, which you will see when booking online.
After the assessment, we will explain:
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What we found
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Why the problem occurred
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What needs doing next
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How much it will cost for the next step
No additional work is carried out without your approval.
Book online or Call us: 01568 612436
