What is a DPF?

When scrapping auto parts, you will often come across catalytic converters that can be worth a good chunk of change, but there are other parts you may not know about. When we give tips on scrapping catalytic converters, we always suggest knowing what kind of year, make, and model so you know how to classify yours.

When you bring it to the scrap yard, it will be much easier to price the catalytic converter, but some makes and models are priced much differently based on the type of engine they are attached to. For example, some foreign makes and models are priced higher than domestic models. Also, aftermarket catalytic converters are priced much lower than regular ones.

Regarding diesel engines, the catalytic converters from those engines generally run at lower prices than other models and types. Some DPFs can be scrapped on the exhaust system of a diesel engine. A “DPF” or diesel particle (particulate) filter is part of the exhaust system on a diesel engine.

The DPF allows a diesel engine’s signature “black smoke” to be turned into the white exhaust, which is then passed through the catalytic converter to break down the elements even more. So when it’s all said and done, a proper exhaust system for a diesel engine will reduce the amount of pollution produced by the system. See the video below to learn what a DPF looks like.

What does a scrap DPF look like?

Generally speaking, the DPF will:

  • It should be similar in shape to a catalytic converter, but sometimes, it will be larger than average.
  • Come first in an exhaust system, before the catalytic converter.
  • Be worth less money than a catalytic converter in scrap value.
  • Look very similar to a catalytic converter, but look inside to see the difference.