Should I buy a car if the DPF light is on?

I am considering purchasing a 2005 Volvo V70 2.4 D S for about £5000. The dealer allowed me to take the car to my mechanic to give it the once over and the DPF warning light was on most of the way there (approx. 10 miles), but by the time I had returned it had gone out. Should I avoid a car of this vintage with a DPF fitted, or am I worrying needlessly?

Asked on 6 November 2014 by DogHelp

Answered by Honest John

It's likely to be trouble. If it's the original it will almost inevitably be full of ash at 9 years old. So budget for a Ceramex clean at £300 and knock the price back to cover it. DPF issues are listed in the car by car entry here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/volvo/v70xc70-2000/

Tags: diesel particulate filter buying a used car dpf

Similar questions

Buying a used hatchback - Honda Civic or Mazda 3?

My ford fiesta has just died and I need to replace it with a used car. I like the Mazda 3 2.2D and the Honda Civic 2.2 CDTI. I have read that the Mazda 3's 2.2D has had problems with diesel contaminating...

Does the Mazda 6 suffer from DPF problems?

I am looking to buy a Mazda 6 and have seen a 2009 deisel model for £7000 at a dealer with only 14,000 miles on the clock. The car is in immaclulate condition: is £7000 a lot for a 2009 car and should...

Does the Mazda 6 suffer from DPF problems?

I am thinking of purchasing a five year old Mazda 6 2.2 diesel. I've identified a few for £7000 that have around 70,000 miles on the clock. Would you count these cars as good buys? I'm a little bit confused...