Understanding DPF: What Every FUSO TF Canter Malaysia Owner Should Know
Story by Ezad Alfuso
What Exactly Is DPF?
If you’re driving a FUSO Canter Euro V, you’ve got something called a DPF — Diesel Particulate Filter working quietly in the background.
Its job is simple:
It traps soot and tiny particles before they exit your exhaust.
This is how Euro V engines reduce harmful emissions.
Think of it macam a high-tech “dustbin” inside the exhaust — collecting soot while you drive, then burning it off when full.
And yes, all this is normal.
How DPF Regeneration Works
Your Canter doesn’t just trap soot. It also knows how to clean itself through a process called regeneration.
Here’s what happens behind the scenes:
🔥 Normal driving → soot collects
🔥 When enough soot accumulates → exhaust temperature rises
🔥 Soot burns automatically → filter becomes clean again
Most of the time you won’t even realize it’s happening.
Euro V systems are designed to handle this on their own.
But sometimes… it needs your help.
Three Types of Regeneration
1. Continuous Regeneration (You Don’t Notice It)
This happens during normal conditions — especially when you drive at steady speeds.
🚩 High exhaust temperature
🚩 Soot burns slowly and automatically
🚩 No lights, no warnings
Highway or long-distance driving keeps your DPF happy.
2. Automatic Regeneration (While Driving)
When soot builds up faster, the truck starts an active cleaning process.
🚩 DPF light turns on (steady)
🚩 Engine adjusts its exhaust temperature
🚩 Cleaning happens while you continue driving normally
No need to stop.
Just drive as usual and let the system do its job.
3. Manual Regeneration (When the Light Flashes)
This is where most owners get confused.
When the DPF light flashes, the truck is telling you:
“I’m full. Please help me clean.”
🚩 Park safely
🚩 Press the DPF regeneration button
🚩 Engine revs up automatically
🚩 Wait about 20 minutes
🚩 Light turns off
Done.
Simple.
Normal.
The DPF Monitor — What The Levels Mean
Your Canter shows PM (soot) accumulation in 9 bars.
Here’s the easy explanation:
🚩 Level 1–6: Normal
Everything is working automatically. Just drive.
🚩 Level 7–8: Time to regenerate
DPF light flashes slowly.
You have ± 50 km or 1 hour to do manual regeneration.
🚩 Level 9: FULL
DPF light flashes rapidly.
Stop and perform manual regeneration immediately.
🚩 PM Overload: Critical
Engine power drops automatically for protection.
Do regeneration straight away.
How To Perform Manual Regeneration
When the DPF light flashes:
Step 1
🚩 Park in a safe, open area with no flammable items nearby.
Step 2
🚩 Make sure engine is warm. If not, idle for a few minutes.
Step 3
🚩 Apply parking brake
🚩 Gear in N (manual) or N/P (DUONIC)
🚩 PTO off if your truck has one
🚩 For DUONIC: wait 30 seconds after shifting to N/P
Step 4
🚩 Press and hold the DPF button
🚩 Light changes from flashing → steady
🚩 Engine revs to ~1,500 rpm
Step 5
🚩 Wait around 20 minutes
🚩 Don’t press pedals, don’t interrupt
🚩 Exhaust will be extremely hot — stand clear
Step 6
🚩 Rev drops back to ~650 rpm
🚩 Light turns off
Regeneration complete.
How To Avoid DPF Problems
Your Canter is designed to run clean — but your driving style affects how often regeneration is needed.
🚩 Do highway runs each week
30 minutes at 60 km/h+ is enough.
🚩 Don’t ignore the flashing light
Level 7–8 = you still have time
Level 9 = do it now
🚩 Let regeneration finish
Interrupted regen = faster buildup
🚩 Warm your engine properly
Cold engines = poor regen efficiency
A few simple habits can save your DPF — and your wallet.
Common Questions From Canter Owners
“How often do I need manual regeneration?”
City driving = more often.
Highway driving = rarely.
“Is it dangerous when the light comes on?”
No. It’s a normal reminder that the filter is doing its job.
“Can I still drive with flashing light?”
Yes, for Level 7–8 (max 50 km).
No for Level 9 — stop and regen immediately.
“Will regeneration hurt my engine?”
Not at all. The system is designed for this.
“What if I can’t find a safe place to stop?”
You still have a bit of time — but don’t delay too long.
When You Should Call Me Instead
Most DPF issues settle after proper regeneration.
But call me if:
🚩 Regeneration keeps failing
🚩 DPF light returns immediately
🚩 Engine power stays weak
🚩 You see unusual smoke or smell something strange
These signs mean your DPF or sensors need a proper check.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to fear the DPF system.
Euro V trucks are cleaner, smarter, and built with automatic self-maintenance.
Once you understand how it works, your Canter becomes even easier to manage.
🚩 Regeneration is normal
🚩 Manual regen is simple
🚩 Highway driving helps a lot
Less stress. Better performance. Longer engine life.
Ready to Experience It Yourself?
📞 Contact Ezad – 017 661 7101
Click here to direct Whatsapp me
Let’s talk about your needs:
✅ Get full specifications
✅ Arrange a test drive
✅ Discuss financing options
Your next truck has already proven itself — across three continents, over 7 million kilometers.
Next Read: [FUSO New Smart VGT Turbocharger - Power That You Need →]
Author: Ezad Alfuso, Truck Sales Advisor at Petaling Jaya.
Related Posts
[4P10 Engine: Why 3.0L Outperforms Older 4.2L →]
[Euro V Compliance: What Malaysian Businesses Must Know →]
[Maintenance Schedule: Keeping Your Canter Running Strong →]