Change Car Particulate Filter (DPF) Ford Focus C-Max

Change Car Particulate Filter (DPF)

Easy 0h30 ~50£
Estimated time 0h30
Estimated labour cost ~50£
Difficulty Easy
Vehicles
Focus C-Max 2003-2011 16
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G8DA)
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G8DB)
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G8DC)
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (HHDA)
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (HHDB)
  • 1.6 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (MTDA)
  • 1.8 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (KKDA)
  • 1.8 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (KKDB)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DA)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DB)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DC)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DD)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DG)
  • 2.0 TDCi (Duratorq) Diesel (IXDA)
  • 2.0 TDDi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DE)
  • 2.0 TDDi (Duratorq) Diesel (G6DF)
Check the catalytic converter 0h30
Check the diesel particulate filter 0h30
Reset the diesel particulate filter fuel additive warning light 0h30
Check/top up the diesel particulate filter fuel additive 0h30
Remove/refit the catalytic converter With diesel particulate filter 1h30–2h00
Remove/refit the catalytic converter 1h30
Renew the catalytic converter With diesel particulate filter 1h30–2h00
Renew the catalytic converter 1h30
Remove/refit the diesel particulate filter 0h45–2h30
Renew the diesel particulate filter 0h45–2h30
Remove/refit the diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter assembly 1h30–2h00
Renew the diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter assembly 1h30–2h00
Prepare the catalytic converter heat shield for installation* 0h45

What is a Ford Focus C-Max particulate filter?

Diesel engines and direct-injection petrol engines produce soot particles. The particulate filter (DPF/GPF) traps these harmful particles as exhaust gases pass through its honeycomb structure. It is placed on the exhaust line after the catalytic converter.

How does the Ford Focus C-Max particulate filter work?

As soot accumulates, the filter periodically burns off (regenerates) the trapped particles. Active regeneration raises exhaust temperatures to 550–600°C, burning soot to ash. This occurs every 300–500 km during normal motorway driving. Vehicles driven only on short urban trips may not regenerate properly, leading to blockage.

When should you change the Ford Focus C-Max particulate filter?

The DPF is designed to last 150,000–250,000 km but depends on driving patterns. Signs of needed replacement: DPF warning light, engine in limp mode, excessive exhaust smoke, or diagnostic scan showing excessive back-pressure or failed regeneration cycles.

Can the Ford Focus C-Max particulate filter be cleaned instead of replaced?

Yes, professional DPF cleaning can restore a blocked filter at a fraction of replacement cost. However, if the filter substrate is cracked, melted, or structurally damaged, replacement is the only option. Never use a DPF removal/delete service — it is illegal and will fail the MOT/emissions test.

Is it difficult to change the Ford Focus C-Max particulate filter?

Difficulty level 2/5: technically straightforward but physically demanding due to the filter's location and weight. Key steps: raise the vehicle, disconnect pressure sensors, remove exhaust clamps/bolts, lower the old DPF, fit the new one with new gaskets, reconnect sensors, clear fault codes, perform a forced regeneration cycle.

View all compatible products →
View your Focus C-Max maintenance plan (keep the Focus C-Max token) →

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