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

No particulate place to go

I am changing my car this year (2006/56 Mercedes E280CDI with 30k miles) and am considering either Jag XF, BMW X3 or perhaps another Merc. My concern is they all have this DPF nowadays and as I only do 9k or 10k pa it may damage the engine because many of the runs are under 10miles. Should I just avoid diesel altogether and go for petrol?

Asked on 5 February 2011 by PN, Dunbar

Answered by Honest John
If the engine and exhaust system does not regularly get hot enough and if the DPF is not self-heating to clear itself of smuts then you will have DPF problems. Before anyone buys a diesel engined car these days they need to get a guarantee in writing that it will be suitable for the type of motoring to which they want to put it, and make that part of the purchase contract.
Similar questions
I have a 2013 Mercedes E250. What sort of diesel regeneration does it have? I drive 50 miles or more on main roads at least weekly.
I own a 2014 Jaguar XF 2.0 diesel. On the motorway the car gets stuck on high revs and has to be put in neutral before moving to the hard shoulder. The car is due to have a 20,000 mile service. The same...
Where is the DPF warning light located on the dashboard of the Jaguar XF 2.7 diesel (2008 model)?
Related models
Unique interior. Amazingly quiet and refined. Economy of 2.2 diesel from 2011.
Distinctive, sharp looks. Excellent CDI diesels. Good motorway cruiser. Feels very well built.
Handling is impressive for an SUV, large boot capacity and lots of rear-seat space, top engine choices deliver serious performance.
 

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