Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Increasinbg fuel consumption - is this normal?

Increasinbg fuel consumption - is this normal?

I own a 2007 VW Passat 2.0 SEL TDI 170 DSG Estate which has covered about 75,000 miles. Until June it was averaging just over 42mpg on a combined cycle over 4500 miles, and on a run I could routinely get between 46-52mpg depending on speed in the usual way.

In June it had a fairly major service which included the diesel particulate filter being changed - and since that time, the mpg has dropped so that over the last 3500 miles it is about 39 and on a run. Even driving very carefully, it is no better than 45mpg. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

FYI I think the cam belt is due to be replaced and am wondering if this could be in any way connected?

Asked on 7 January 2013 by Nick Southwell

Answered by Honest John
A lot of reports of this happening after DPF replacement with this model. It's probably because more fuel is used in regenerating the DPF.
Similar questions
Is there a diesel car yet that can cope with town driving/short journeys without clogging the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) components?
I am looking to buy a medium sized diesel without DPF. After reading too many internet forums I am now unable to decide what to plump for given that there seems to be so many diesels that have expensive...
I have just acquired a Citroen C8 and a warning came up on the panel that the diesel additive needed attention, and to get a local dealer to look at it.
Related models
Spacious and comfortable. Wide range of engines. Big, boot with lockable seatbacks. Generally better from May 2008 onwards.