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Change Car Particulate Filter (DPF) Mercedes-Benz SLK

Change Car Particulate Filter (DPF)

Easy 0h30 ~50£
Estimated time 0h30
Estimated labour cost ~50£
Difficulty Easy
Vehicles
SLK 2011-2016 1
  • 250 CDI Diesel (651.980)
Check the catalytic converter 0h30
Remove/refit the diesel particulate filter 2h30
Renew the diesel particulate filter 3h30
Remove/refit the diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter assembly 3h00
Renew the diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter assembly 3h00
Prepare the catalytic converter heat shield for installation* 0h45

What is a Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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.

3 models covered

Model Year Range Engines covered Fuel
SLK 1996-2004 1996-2004 200 Kompressor, -LPG LPG,Petrol (111.958), 230 Kompressor, -LPG LPG,Petrol (111.983), 32 AMG Kompressor Petrol (112.960), 320, -LPG LPG,Petrol (112.947) LPG, Petrol
SLK 2004-2010 2004-2010 200 Kompressor, -LPG LPG,Petrol (271.944), 200 Kompressor, -LPG LPG,Petrol (271.954), 280, -LPG LPG,Petrol (272.942), 350 Petrol (272.969), 350, -LPG LPG,Petrol (272.963), 55 AMG Petrol (113.989), 55 AMG Petrol (113.989) LPG, Petrol
SLK 2011-2016 2011-2016 200 Petrol (274.920), 250 BlueEFF Petrol (271.861), 250 CDI Diesel (651.980), 300 Petrol (274.920), 350 BlueEFF Petrol (276.956), 55 AMG Petrol (152.980) Diesel, Petrol