Quick answer
A new DPF often ranges from £700 to over £2,000, depending on vehicle make, model, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket. Labour and VAT can increase the total. Premium brands or larger engines push costs higher.
Detailed answer
Replacing your Diesel Particulate Filter can be a daunting financial blow, especially if your beloved diesel is out of warranty. The price varies widely based on make, model, and whether you buy an original (OEM) part or an aftermarket equivalent.
1. Typical Price Range
– Basic Hatchback: Some smaller diesel car filters might start around £700–£900 for a brand-new, aftermarket unit.
– Mid-Range Saloon / SUV: You could be looking at £1,000–£1,500, particularly if the brand is known for pricy parts.
– High-End or Premium: Large SUVs or premium German saloons sometimes exceed £2,000 for an OEM DPF. Even an aftermarket unit might be well over £1,200.
Don’t forget labour costs. Installing a new filter involves removing part of the exhaust, reattaching sensors, and clearing any fault codes. That could add another £100–£300 depending on garage rates and how tricky access is.
2. OEM vs. Aftermarket
– OEM: Original brand filters meet manufacturer specs but carry a bigger price tag. Typically, they’re guaranteed to fit perfectly and perform at factory standards.
– Aftermarket: Cheaper, but quality can vary. Some reputable aftermarket brands produce solid filters at a discount. Others might not last as long or pass strict emission checks.
3. Why Replace?
– Physical Damage: The filter’s internal honeycomb might crack from overheating or impact.
– Excessive Ash: Over years of repeated regeneration, ash (from oil additives) accumulates. If cleaning services can’t restore it to a functional level, replacement is the only option.
– Severe Blockage: If forced regens or professional cleaning fail, your filter might be too clogged.
4. Consider Cleaning First
Professional DPF cleaning can cost £200–£400 and often revives a clogged filter, saving you from a full replacement. Unless your filter is physically damaged, it’s worth exploring. Many shops use ultrasonic or thermal methods to remove soot and ash.
5. Avoid Shady Deals
Some garages offer suspiciously cheap “solutions,” which might be a disguised DPF removal (illegal for road use) or subpar aftermarket part that fails prematurely. A legitimate replacement might cost more up front, but ensures you stay compliant and pass MOT.
6. Maintenance to Prevent New Clogs
Once you’ve replaced or cleaned the DPF, change your driving habits if you’re the short-trip type. Occasional motorway runs let the filter regenerate. Use low-ash engine oil, keep an eye on the dash warnings, and handle minor blockages early.
Conclusion
A new DPF filter can cost anywhere from £700 up to £2,000+ in the UK. The wide range reflects differences in car brand, filter type, and labour. If your filter is salvageable, professional cleaning is a cheaper alternative. But when you need a brand-new unit, be prepared for the expense—and focus on preventing clogs going forward to avoid a repeat scenario.
