Just got my first diesel! It’s a 2024 Ford F250 with the high-output engine and less than 200 miles on it. I’m curious about how the exhaust filter works. My commute is about 25 minutes at 65-75 mph most of the time. This morning, I noticed the exhaust filter percentage going up even at those speeds. After work, I drove for 45 minutes at 70-75 mph, and the percentage still increased.
Shouldn’t the truck be doing passive regeneration while I’m driving, since the engine and transmission temps were around 200 degrees? Or do I just need to keep driving as I have been and wait for the truck to handle regeneration on its own?
I have a similar 2024 F250 HO. If you’re driving lightly at those speeds and distances, the DPF will fill up like you’re seeing. Payload and towing make a big difference. For example, I usually haul 1-2k lbs. If I drive gently, it clogs up fast. If I push it harder, passive regen keeps it near zero. Guys who tow spend more time in high boost, which helps keep the DPF clean. If you idle or drive easy with no payload, the engine doesn’t work hard enough, and the filter fills up.
Edit: Active regen for casual driving usually kicks in at 65-80% every 600 miles or so.
Ky said: @Hari
This is why I went with the 7.3. I really wanted the diesel, though.
Same here. The EPA rules have really hurt diesel engines for personal use. I tow an 11,000 lb fifth wheel a few times a year, and while I’d prefer the diesel, the 7.3 handles it well. Hopefully, this DPF/SCR tech improves someday.
Ariya said: @Zan
That’s why I bought a diesel that was already tuned and deleted. Hopefully, we’ll see the EPA rules change soon.
I’d rather not void the warranty on a brand-new engine, especially after paying $10-12k for the diesel option. Plus, most of my trips are short and not ideal for a diesel. I see the appeal for used trucks, though.
@Zan
I bought my 2015 Platinum for $31k with 164k miles. It was tuned and deleted, and I felt it was more economical and reliable. It also had the luxuries I wanted. I get why people buy new, especially for warranties, but this works for my needs.
@Ariya
That makes sense. I used to think the same way, but now I’m in a better spot financially and willing to pay for comfort. My truck is my daily driver and tows my toys. Plus, I love the ventilated seats—total game changer in the summer!
Ky said: @Hari
This is why I went with the 7.3. I really wanted the diesel, though.
I had a 2022 7.3 and drove it hard with a similar payload. I got about 9 mpg because it was always in high RPMs. Now I have this diesel, and I average 18 mpg driving more casually.
Darwin said: @Hari
I figured a 45-minute drive would trigger passive regeneration, but the filter percentage just kept going up.
Try dropping to a gear that keeps your RPMs around 2.0-2.3k. It’ll raise your exhaust gas temps and help with passive regen. It’s slower than towing or hard driving but still helps.
@Wylie
Dave’s videos are solid. But his business reviews are rough—lots of stories about high prices and questionable practices. Still, his content is informative.
@Wylie
Dave knows diesels inside and out. His advice is great, but yeah, you either delete the emissions stuff or upgrade with better parts, which can get pricey.
What you’re experiencing is pretty normal for light commuting. Exhaust gas temperature (EGT) is the key for passive regen, not engine or oil temps. If the engine isn’t working hard, EGT stays low, and the filter doesn’t clean itself as effectively.
