The transmission system is the life of a diesel-engine vehicle. Repairs to the transmission system are inevitable and they're sometimes expensive.

One way for vehicle owners to bring down the cost of transmission repairs is to shop around for spare parts before checking in at the auto service and repairs shop. Here are three factors that vehicle owners should consider when shopping for particulate filters the DIY way.

The Type Of Diesel Used By The Vehicle

Diesel fuel is can be derived from various sources including petroleum and biomass. For this reason, different types of diesel fuel have different chemical composition.

Passive regeneration filters are sensitive to the sulfur content in diesel fuel. High sulfur content in the chemical composition of diesel fuel may impede the efficient operation of these filters. Thus, passive regeneration filters should only be bought if they're to be used on a vehicle that runs on synthetic diesel or any other ultra-low sulfur diesel. If not, active regeneration filters are recommended.

Driving Habits

One's driving habits may also influence the best choice of particulate filters for their vehicle. This is because active and passive regeneration filters work in different ways.

A passive regeneration particulate filter will only work when the temperature of fumes coming from the vehicle's exhaust system is higher than the temperature of soot that has accumulated on the filter(s).

In contrast, the operation of active regeneration filters is aided by a catalyst. This catalyst works to lower the temperature at which soot will burn so that the temperature of exhaust fumes is higher. The operation of these filters doesn't depend on the temperature of exhaust gases.

Vehicle owners who make regular short trips should invest in an active regeneration filter. This is because the vehicle engine will often fail to heat exhaust gases to the desired temperature during short trips. Thus, passive regeneration filters will often fail to work in such situations.

The Casing Material On The Particulate Filter

The casing material used on a particulate filter will constantly be exposed to extreme temperatures. Thus, the material used to fabricate the casing should have a high thermal resistance if the casing is to have a longer lifespan. Stainless steel is perhaps the best casing material for both active and passive regeneration diesel particulate filters.

In addition to its commendable thermal resistance, a stainless steel casing on a particulate filter is not likely to suffer the effects of corrosion.