Should I be concerned about the DPF if I buy a Volkswagen Golf or Polo TDI?

I am about to choose between a Golf TDI 90 PS and a Polo 75 PS TDI, but am concerned about reports concerning DPF problems with the Polo in particular. There are also reports about Volkswagen dropping the 75PS model for lack of power. Obviously the Volkswagen dealer denies any problem with both. Should I be concerned? I cover about 10,000 miles a year with a weekly motorway journey.

Asked on 14 October 2010 by SB, via email

Answered by Honest John

The old 1.4 75PS 3-cylinder diesel has been dropped in favour of a more efficient new 1.2 75PS 3-cylinder diesel. SEAT has used this to get emissions down to 89g/km CO2. The car is no fireball but it does actually move along, though for 10,000 miles a year, better a 1.2TSI 105 or 1.4TSI 122 than a diesel.

These are chain cam petrol engines with water-cooled turbos, so your potential savings over a belt cam diesel over five years are: Timing belt change: £500. Replacement DPF: £500. Replacement DMF and clutch: £1,200. Replacement EGR: £400. The saving on fuel of a diesel over 50,000 miles is nothing like the combined cost of these components.

Tags: running costs dpf diesel engines diesels chain cam belt cam

Similar questions

Which reliable Ford should we buy as an all-purpose workhorse?

We would like to buy either a Ford Focus hatchback or estate or a 2008 Ford C-Max from British Car Auctions, where we have purchased several cars in the past. The car will serve as an all purpose workhorse...

Does the 2012 Skoda Superb have a timing chain or belt?

I am thinking of buying a 2012/62 Skoda Superb. It has the 170PS diesel engine. Please can you tell me if this engine has a timing chain or belt?

Which is more reliable - the Skoda Yeti or Hyundai ix35?

I have read the reviews but I need your opinion. Skoda Yeti or Hyundai ix35? Which is more reliable?

Related models

Volkswagen Golf (2009 - 2013)

Comfortable and quiet on the move, enjoyable to drive. Nicely trimmed with great attention to detail. 1.4 TSI sweeter to drive than a diesel.

Volkswagen Polo (2009 - 2017)

Neatly styled and easy to drive. Room for five. Most come with full size spare. High quality interior. Double folding rear seats give flat load area. Frugal 1.2 TDI BlueMotion.