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

I drive 8,000 miles per year, mostly around town. Should I buy a diesel?

Should I buy a diesel SUV? I drive about 7,000 - 8,000 miles a year, much of it short journeys in town.

Asked on 16 March 2021 by Eddie Mc

Answered by Georgia Petrie
No, you shouldn't. Diesels aren't designed to be used for less than 12,000 miles per year at a minimum. We generally suggest a driver needs to be doing 15,000 miles per year, with longer journeys being the majority. By longer journeys, we mean more than 15 miles at a time - but higher speed roads are ideal. 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 perhaps electric vehicle.
Similar questions
Why do car reviewers always recommend a petrol car for city drivers and a diesel car for those who do high mileage/motorway driving? If one gets more mileage from a diesel, isn't that vehicle a better...
With low annual milage, should I buy a diesel car?
I'm buying a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible. Do I buy petrol or diesel? Which model do you recommend?
 

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