Is it worth using premium fuel in an old car?

Having just sold my 2004 BMW 330 convertible to a family member after seven fault free years, I intend to replace it with a 328 Touring on my budget of £20k when I can find the right car.

In the meantime I am getting a cheap run-around. A second generation 2011 Ford Focus 1.6 diesel, for which I am paying £2000. My question is, having followed your recommendation to always run the 330 on Shell V Power, is it worth filling the first tank with Shell Super Diesel ( or the diesel equivalent of VPower) or after five years and 133k miles would I be wasting my money?

Asked on 2 June 2016 by RN Yorkshire

Answered by Honest John
£2k for a facelift second shape 2011 Focus 1.6TDCI seems buttons, even with 133k miles. But it could be on the cusp of needing a lot of money spent. Typically: timing belt, tensioner and waterpump; turbo; turbo bearing oil feed and oil return pipes; EGR; DPF and DMF. And that's probably why it's so temptingly cheap. But if you buy it, Shell V-Power will at least help to clean up the fuel system.
Similar questions
Can you advise, my Porsche has 98 octane fuel printed on the filler cap. This is not always available and I use 95 Octane without any discernible effect, then filling the tank with 99 octane now and again...
I've recently seen you advise using Shell V- Power because it improves performance and mpg. We don't have a Shell garage here, but we do have a Tesco station which sells their premium brand, Momentum,...
I own a Volvo 960 and the lambda warning light keeps coming on. My local garage reset the system, but the light came back after 100 miles. Any idea what's causing this?
Related models
Much improved 2004 Focus. Great to drive. Comfortable and well laid-out interior. Wide range of engines. Low emission ECOnetic versions offer 55mpg +.
 

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