Tell me about DPFs and short journeys...

How far do you need to drive a Hyundai i30 to help the diesel particulate filter regenerate, and how often does it perform this action? If you only do mainly short journeys are you better of with a petrol engine?

Jan Taylor (Lincoln)

Jun 2013 Filed under: DPF issues

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Expert answer

Hi Jan,

Yes, if you’re doing fewer than circa 20,000km a year then you are indeed better off with petrol. If it’s the new-shape Hyundai i30 you’re talking about, the good news is that it does come with a deeply impressive 1.0-litre petrol turbo T-GDI engine, which is a belter. As for the particulate filter on the diesel, generally speaking a 25-30min run along the motorway, in fourth gear (at 120km/h where permitted), will do the job when it comes to keeping it clear.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe