Modern diesel trucks and SUVs are equipped with EGR and DPF systems. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) work together to reduce harmful emissions from your truck.
These systems are quite intricate and as such should be included in your vehicle’s preventative maintenance plan. Foothills Group has grown our reputation for being honest and experienced with diesel truck engines. This includes providing a vast array of EGR and DPF system services.
The main purpose of the EGR system is to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emission outputs.
The EGR system reduces the amount of oxygen entering the engine by preventing it from taking in clean, outside air. Rather, the air is recirculated through the exhaust system. The result is that the fuel cannot burn as hot, making it produce less harmful exhaust gases. By burning fuel at this “ideal” temperature, the exhaust gas output is reduced while still having the engine produce as much energy as possible.
The main purpose of your DPF is to catch all the soot produced by your EGR system.
The DPF is essentially a ceramic honeycomb-shaped component that caches soot which is produced by the EGR system. The DPF system also has sensors that measure the level of soot and indicates when the unit is clogged as well as temperature sensors that monitor how hot the truck exhaust is.
Signs that your EGR or DPF systems need service
- Higher emission production - Not only will the smell of fuel be noticeable, but there will also be constant, black smoke coming from your tailpipe.
- Abnormally rough idle - A rough idle when starting your vehicle or during brief stops can be caused when the EGR is constantly open and a continuous flow of exhaust gases goes into the intake manifold.
- You can smell fuel - If there is a continuous flow of exhaust gasses it may be an indication that your EGR valve is damaged. In this case, you will smell excessive fuel coming from your truck.
- Frequent stalls while idling -This can be caused if the EGR is constantly letting exhaust gases into the system.
- Decreased Engine Performance - When the DPF is blocked, the ability to remove the exhaust from the engine is compromised resulting in your engine feeling weak and sluggish.
- Poor Fuel Efficiency - With the engine not working efficiently, you will burn through more fuel than normal. This can be caused by either the DPF being clogged or the fuel burn temperature running too low because the EGR is not performing properly.
- Trouble Starting - A blocked DPF creates a buildup of exhaust gas in the engine which builds pressure. This pressure needs to be released in order for your engine to start properly.
At Foothills Group, our technicians do actually care about getting your truck fixed right. When it comes to EGR and DPF problems you will find that we take the extra steps to perform the necessary service in order to ensure your particular truck is at its peak performance.
