Is a diesel car suited to low annual mileages?

Looking at buying a Ford Galaxy and wondering if it's inappropriate to get a diesel engine, as we only generally drive short distances in the city and annual mileage would only be about 3,000 miles. Would only using the car for short journeys damage the engine and potentially cause it to breakdown more often?

Thanks

Patricia McGuire (Dublin)

Aug 2010 Filed under: diesel

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Expert answer

Hi Patricia,

It's true that diesel engines are not as well suited to life spent in town and short journeys. Many of the components can become gummed up, reducing performance and increasing fuel consumption. Diesel versions of many cars are more expensive to buy in the first place too, and it's no point paying that premium unless you're going to make it back over longer annual mileages. Finally, petrol cars are generally quieter, making them more relaxed in town.

Hope that helps

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D