If you drive a diesel truck, the exhaust created by the combustion in the engine is different from a car's. Unlike gasoline, diesel fuel burns off carbon and other particulates, requiring the use of a DPF filter within the exhaust system to catch them before they exit the exhaust stacks and contaminate the air.

Because of the amount of carbon being released, DPF filters easily become clogged up and need to be replaced periodically. Below are a couple of early warning signs that indicate that the DPF filter in your diesel truck will need to be replaced soon to keep your vehicle's engine running in optimal condition.

1. Engine Will Start to Lose Power Because of the Backflow of Diesel Exhaust and Carbon

One early warning sign that the DPF filter in your diesel truck needs to be changed is a noticeable loss of power. This power loss will first be most evident when you try to climb a hill as the engine struggles to keep up with the increased demand.

As carbon and other particulates start to clog the filter, the exhaust cannot flow freely through it. This creates a backflow of exhaust fumes that will radically change the pressure within the combustion chamber, making it difficult for the engine to keep power.

2. Strong Odor of Diesel Exhaust Fumes Will Persist in the Truck's Cabin Even after Airing It Out

Another warning sign that the DPF filter needs to be replaced is the presence of the strong odor of diesel exhaust fumes in the cabin of the truck. Even if you air out the cabin by rolling down the windows, the odor will persist.

As the clogged filter keeps the fumes from exiting through the exhaust system and the stacks, the backflow will start to seep out and rise up into the cabin. The accumulation of these fumes will only become worse with time as the filter becomes more clogged.

If your engine is starting to lose power because the DPF filter is causing serious backflow of exhaust and the fumes are filling your cabin, you need to change the filter as soon as possible. If it becomes too clogged, the safety mechanism for the engine will keep your truck starting at all to protect it from damage. Before this happens, contact an auto service shop—such as Effingham Radio Repair Inc—that offers DPF filters for sale to speak with a representative.