As quoted in Garagewire, we are pleased to announce that the there will be a check for a DPF in the exhaust system, when an MOT is taking place, from February 2014.

The article states:

“Tests for diesel cars and lorries are to be tightened Roads Minister Robert Goodwill has announced.

Garages will be required to check for a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the inspection of the exhaust system as part of the MOT test from February 2014. The vehicle will automatically fail the MOT test if the filter had been fitted as standard but is found to be no longer present.

The filter works by trapping solid particulate matter from exhaust gases. This type of filter has been in use for more than 20 years and helps meet European emission standards, improving air quality and health standards. It will become an offence to drive a vehicle with the filter removed as it will no longer meet the emissions standards the car achieved when it was approved for sale in the UK.

Roads Minister Robert Goodwill said:
“I am very concerned that vehicles are being modified in a way that is clearly detrimental to people’s health and undoes the hard work car manufacturers have taken to improve emissions standards. It has become apparent the government had to intervene to clarify the position on particulate filter removal given the unacceptable negative impact on air quality.”

“This change to the MOT tests makes it clear – if you have this filter removed from your car it will fail the test.”

The filters need to be ‘regenerated’ regularly through burning the soot to gas at a very high temperature, leaving behind a residue. If not carried out properly, regeneration can lead to a build up of soot, which can affect performance. This has led to some diesel vehicle owners opting to remove the filter.”