How long does it take to clear a DPF?

Judging by the times Diesel Particulate Filters are mentioned in your columns, your mailbox must clog up with them. My question involves the distance one needs to travel before the DPF sorts itself out....

Why are modern diesels bad for short journeys?

I would be grateful for information on cars using diesel. I have been told that this is a good feature if you are doing a lot of distance driving, but not a good choice if the running is mostly local....

Should I sell my 2007 Octavia Scout before the DPF fails?

I bought a secondhand 2007 Octavia Scout TDI 1,968cc with 76,000 miles on the clock in May last year. It is my second diesel Octavia but the first with a DPF, something I had not heard of before I bought...

Would you recommend that we buy a Honda CR-V and another second car?

I have a 2007 Ford C-Max 1.6 110 diesel with 61,000 miles on the clock. My husband has a Ford Mondeo estate diesel 2.2 Titanium X with 60,000. We both now do about 6000 miles a year, a lot on short 4-10...

Should I buy a large capacity diesel for short journeys?

I am considering buying a 2008 Range Rover TDV8, a 2010 Audi A8 TDI or a 2010 Jaguar XJ 3-litre diesel. Although I drive some long distance trips, predominately my journeys are under five miles. Do I...

Has Ford overcome the DPF problem by using an additive in its diesel engines?

I have followed with interest your comments on DPF problems. I have not experienced these with my own 2009 Volkswagen 2.0-litre turbodiesel, although at 8000 per year I still avoid too many short runs....

Will a diesel Volkswagen Golf be more economical than the petrol version?

New Golf 1.4TSI petrol or new 1.6TDI diesel? I’ve done the maths. For both cars after three years at 8000 miles per year at urban mpg (43 petrol and 62 diesel) and local fuel prices I’ve calculated petrol...

Our postal vans keep breaking down with DPF faults - do you have any comment?

As a keen reader of your columns in the Saturday Telegraph, I am well aware of the pitfalls of operating a modern diesel for short journeys. Our local postmen have been subjected to new "modern" work methods,...

My BMW 635d smells unpleasant - is this the DPF regenerating?

My 3-year-old BMW 635d occasionally produces an unpleasant smell from underneath. This can best be described as being like 'burning rubber' or 'dead mouse'. It is the only problem with an otherwise perfect...

Which 4WD vehicle for accessing tracks and green lanes?

I live half a mile off tarmac along forestry track and green lane. I have managed for 35 years with 2WD but the pattern of recent winters and regular snow seems to be set to last. Presently, I make do...