If your truck is showing high soot, loss of power, or aftertreatment warnings, you may need to perform a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration. This guide shows you exactly how to run a manual or forced regen using diagnostic software such as Diesel Tech, Universal Diag, Cummins INSITE, CAT ET, Detroit DDDL, Paccar ESA, and more.
This article applies to all major engines including Cummins, Detroit Diesel, CAT, Paccar, Volvo, Mack, Hino, Isuzu, Ford, and International.
What Is DPF Regeneration?
DPF regeneration is the process that burns off soot trapped inside the Diesel Particulate Filter. The soot is converted into ash using high exhaust temperatures. This prevents filter clogging, power loss, and derate conditions.
Types of DPF Regeneration
- Passive Regen: Happens automatically at highway speeds when exhaust temps are high enough.
- Active Regen: The ECM raises exhaust temps using fuel injection or dosing to burn soot.
- Forced / Manual Regen: Triggered by a diagnostic tool when the DPF is too full for passive/active regen.
Symptoms Your Truck Needs a Regen
- DPF or regen light on
- High soot level warnings
- Loss of power or derate mode
- Frequent fan engagement and high idle
- Increased fuel consumption
What You Need Before Starting a Forced Regen
- Diagnostic laptop or scan tool
- Compatible RP1210 or OEM adapter
- Engine key turned to ON (engine OFF unless software requires otherwise)
- All doors closed, transmission in neutral/park, parking brake set
- No active fault codes preventing regen
- Coolant temperature typically above 160°F (varies per engine)
How to Perform a Forced DPF Regeneration (All Engines)
Step 1: Connect to the Vehicle
- Plug the USB-Link or Nexiq adapter into the truck’s diagnostic port.
- Connect the adapter to your laptop.
- Turn the key to Ignition ON, engine OFF.
- Open the correct diagnostic software on your laptop.
Step 2: Select the Correct Program for Your Engine
- Cummins: INSITE or Diesel Tech
- Detroit Diesel: DDDL or Universal Diag
- CAT: CAT ET or Universal Diag
- Paccar: ESA
- Volvo/Mack: Volvo Tech Tool (VOCOM adapter required)
- Universal engines: Diesel Tech or Universal Diag
Step 3: Check for Fault Codes
Your regen may not start if certain fault codes are active. Look for:
- DPF pressure codes
- EGR faults
- NOx sensor codes
- DEF system errors
- High soot or derate codes (e.g., SPN 3719, SPN 5246, SPN 4364)
Clear any faults that block regeneration.
Step 4: Navigate to the Regeneration Menu
In your software, locate the regeneration option. It is usually found under:
- Aftertreatment
- DPF Service
- Emissions
- Maintenance Routines
Step 5: Begin Forced or Parked Regen
Click the button labeled “Start Regen,” “Manual Regen,” or “Forced Regeneration.”
The ECM will raise exhaust temperatures (900–1300°F depending on engine) and burn off accumulated soot inside the DPF.
Step 6: Monitor Live Data
- DPF differential pressure
- Exhaust gas temperatures
- Soot level %
- DEF dosing rates (SCR engines)
- Engine RPM during regen
A typical regen takes 20–45 minutes depending on soot load.
Step 7: Confirm Successful Completion
You should see:
- Drop in DPF pressure
- Soot level reduced to normal range
- No active DPF/regen faults remaining
- Software confirmation message
When a Regen Won’t Start
The most common reasons include:
- Active fault codes
- Low coolant temperature
- Bad EGR valve or EGR flow issues
- Failed NOx sensor
- DEF quality problems
- DPF completely full and requiring cleaning
Post-Regen Checks
- Verify soot level is normal
- Check DPF pressure at idle
- Review aftertreatment history in the software
- Clear inactive or stored codes
When You Should NOT Perform a Regen
- Active DEF, NOx, or EGR faults
- Any derate that prevents high exhaust temperature
- Coolant temp too low
- Visible exhaust leaks
- DPF suspected to be melted or cracked
Final Tips for Successful Regeneration
- Use the correct diagnostic program for your engine
- Ensure the truck meets all regen conditions
- Let the process run uninterrupted
- Address repeated failed regens quickly to avoid derate
Need Help?
If you need help performing a regen, choosing the right software, or diagnosing your aftertreatment system, reach out to us:
- Phone (Toll Free): (877) 210-3245
- Email: info@truckscanners.com
- Contact Page: https://truckscanners.com/contact/
Shop Diesel Diagnostic Laptops
If you need a fully-loaded diesel diagnostic laptop capable of performing forced regens, clearing derates, and running full aftertreatment tests, browse our complete selection:
➡ Shop Diesel Diagnostic Laptops
All kits include a 2-year warranty, lifetime activation, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.