If you’re a current 70 Series LandCruiser owner — or considering becoming one — you’ve likely come across the term DPF. Short for Diesel Particulate Filter, it’s one of the most talked-about features (and sometimes frustrations) in the modern diesel world. But when exactly did Toyota add a DPF to the 70 Series, and what changed when they did?
This article breaks it down clearly and practically, so you know what to expect from a post-DPF LandCruiser.
When Did the 70 Series Get a DPF?
Toyota began fitting a DPF to the 70 Series LandCruiser in September 2016 for the Australian market. This change applied to all variants of the 70 Series, including the VDJ76 Wagon, VDJ78 Troop Carrier, and VDJ79 Single and Dual Cab Utes.
The move was in response to Australia’s adoption of Euro 5 emissions standards, which required all new diesel vehicles to significantly reduce particulate emissions. Rather than replacing the trusty 4.5L V8 turbo diesel (1VD-FTV), Toyota equipped it with a DPF system to meet compliance while retaining the core engine architecture.
What Changed in the 2016+ Models?
While the engine remained fundamentally the same, the addition of the DPF brought several updates to how the system operates, both mechanically and electronically.
Key updates included:
Diesel Particulate Filter added to the exhaust system to capture soot and fine particulates.
Automatic regeneration system controlled by the ECU to burn off trapped soot during driving.
New dash indicators and warning lights for DPF status, including alerts for regen cycles or filter blockage.
Additional pressure and temperature sensors in the exhaust system to monitor DPF condition and performance.
ECU retuning to improve combustion efficiency and reduce soot production.
Revised injection timing to support active regeneration by increasing exhaust temperature when needed.
Notably, power and torque remained unchanged — the 1VD-FTV still produced 151kW and 430Nm (or 450Nm in later auto models) — but the engine mapping and driving behaviour became slightly more refined.
What Is a DPF and Why Does It Matter?
A Diesel Particulate Filter is designed to reduce emissions by capturing the soot produced during diesel combustion. Over time, this soot builds up in the filter and needs to be burned off in a process called regeneration. There are two main types:
Passive regeneration occurs naturally during longer, high-speed drives when exhaust temperatures are high enough.
Active regeneration is triggered by the ECU, injecting extra fuel into the exhaust stroke to increase heat and burn off soot.
In some vehicles, including certain post-2016 70 Series models, manual regeneration can be initiated using a button or via a diagnostic tool, usually when the vehicle detects a partial blockage that hasn’t cleared automatically.
What 70 Series Owners Should Be Aware Of
DPF technology works well under the right conditions — but it does require specific driving habits. If your LandCruiser spends most of its time on the highway, towing, or covering long distances, the DPF usually takes care of itself.
However, if your use involves short trips, stop-start traffic, or extended idling, the system may struggle to complete full regen cycles. This can result in soot buildup, reduced performance, and eventually limp mode or a DPF fault warning.
Common issues include:
Blocked DPF from interrupted or failed regenerations.
Fuel dilution during frequent active regens, where diesel contaminates the engine oil over time.
Warning lights indicating regen failure or excessive soot accumulation.
Increased maintenance needs, especially for vehicles used in low-speed or urban environments.
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy DPF
Drive long enough for regeneration to occur – aim for at least 20 minutes of highway driving regularly.
Avoid excessive idling or constant short trips, which don’t allow exhaust temps to rise.
Stick to low-ash engine oil, typically CJ-4 or CK-4 spec, to protect the DPF and extend its lifespan.
Monitor warning lights, and don’t ignore DPF alerts. A forced regeneration may be needed if the filter becomes too full.
Service your vehicle on time, and check engine oil levels more frequently in DPF-equipped models, especially if doing lots of short trips.
Final Thoughts
The 70 Series LandCruiser received its DPF in September 2016 — a milestone that marked Toyota’s compliance with modern emissions laws, but also a change in how the LandCruiser behaves and is maintained.
For most rural, touring, or trade-focused users, the DPF is unlikely to cause trouble as long as the vehicle is driven properly and maintained. But if you’re regularly in stop-start traffic or using your 70 as a city runabout, it’s worth understanding the system and adapting your habits accordingly.
Ultimately, the post-2016 70 Series still delivers everything LandCruiser owners love — toughness, reliability, and V8 torque — but with a few new rules under the bonnet.
