My BMW 635d smells unpleasant - is this the DPF regenerating?

My 3-year-old BMW 635d occasionally produces an unpleasant smell from underneath. This can best be described as being like 'burning rubber' or 'dead mouse'. It is the only problem with an otherwise perfect vehicle. The car is mainly used for 10-mile journeys to work and back - little else - and only does 5000 miles a year. Could this be the Diesel Particulate Filter regenerating and, if so, is this OK?

Asked on 16 March 2013 by DH, Farningham

Answered by Honest John
Yes. If it smells a bit like an incinerator it is the DPF regenerating. Best to leave the engine running for a minute or two while it's doing that rather than simply switch it off.
Tags: dpf diesels
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