What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Are diesels a definite no for city driving?

I'm considering getting a secondhand BMW 3 or 5 Series but the vast majority of my driving is in the city and I rarely do over 20 miles per day. There are some great deals on diesel cars but should I avoid them due to DFP issues? I don't mind taking it for a blast down the motorway once in a while but does that work?

Asked on 30 May 2020 by Michael Burns

Answered by Dan Powell
The feedback we get from low-mileage diesel drivers is overwhelmingly negative. Lots of DPF and EGR problems, all caused by the fact the vehicle seldom reaches its optimum operating temperature. I would advise buying a petrol, hybrid or electric vehicle. A diesel isn't designed for the usage you have described.
Similar questions
I have a 2013 Volkswagen Beetle diesel. It went in for the emissions update but 12 months later, the DPF light came on. The car does very few miles per year. I took it to a local garage who told me this...
In the main, I only drive twice a day for 1.3 miles each way. Should I keep the Lexus IS 2.5 V6 petrol or swap to a small petrol car, or even a hybrid like the Toyota Yaris?
I do 15,000 miles per year and almost never do less than 30-mile round trips. I would like a diesel but think I'm on the cusp mileage wise. What do you recommend?
Related models
Brilliant ride and handling, powerful and efficient diesel engines, upmarket interior, very safe, lots on the used market.
Brilliant to drive, powerful and fuel-efficient engines, good interior space and practicality.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer