Greetings, individuals.
I have lately acquired an F40 120d. I have a strong affinity for the automobile, but, I am anticipating a potential issue that may arise in the future and I would want to be prepared for it.
The vehicle is powered by a diesel engine.
I am located within a 3-minute driving distance from my workplace.
The majority of the stores in my vicinity can be reached by car within a one-minute trip.
The distance to my nearby grocery store is a 10-minute car ride.
The engine fails to reach the desired operating temperature while travelling to any of the above destinations.
It is evident that it has a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
I acknowledge that I should have opted for a gasoline-powered vehicle. However, the only gasoline options available were the models with a 135 engine. Given the location where I reside, such a vehicle would have been very attractive to thieves.
Previously, I would often use my partner's former 320d vehicle on a biweekly basis for the said purpose. We did not encounter any problems with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), nevertheless, after a couple of years, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MAS light) began to appear sporadically. Subsequently, the timing chain malfunctioned, prompting her to trade it in for an X3. Consequently, the outcome of the situation remains uncertain.
The one consolation I possess is that I often commute to a nearby hamlet, covering a distance of 20 minutes each way, three times during a span of two weeks. The majority of the speed restrictions throughout the route are set at 30mph and 40mph, with the exception of a brief segment when the speed limit increases to 50mph for about one minute. Due to heavy traffic, the travel involves several stops and starts rather than being a continuous run.
Will this be sufficient to avert DPF blockage?
One of my colleagues reported using a gasoline additive that has effectively prevented any issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Unfortunately, I am now on leave due to COVID-19 and unable to enquire more about it.
Do you believe that I need an additive? Will a 40-minute round journey three times a week suffice?
Thank you.