I visited the dealer this morning, but they could not find anything wrong. I was asked if the smell was fuel or exhaust fumes, but admitted I was no expert in describing the stink. It was said that there could be a case the sprayed wax treatment to the underside of the car could have gone onto the exhaust system, although it was not defined if this in itself creates a diesel type smell. Meanwhile I listened to a mechanic say that he has never liked diesel cars because they all smell. Anyway I have been asked to drive another 300 miles to see if the problem still exists, and if it does they will look again.
Regarding “Pura” diesel I forget the exact facts and specifications, but as from around the year 2004 EU law will make it illegal to use plain low sulphur diesel, and all fuels will have to be very similar to “Pura” – which I might add was development with the new legislation in mind. Main benefits of “Pura” are that it contains something like 80% less sulphur, and consequently is better for the environment. It is said to be far less offensive in the stink created in filling up the car, however when it comes to the engine “Pura” is said to be brilliant in not coking up the pistons/head, whilst also offering much better combustion. Such details I did once find on a Shell internet site – so have a search if you fancy it.
Talking of fuel I was pleased that 2 days ago on a 100 odd mile return trip (some town, mostly motorway) I averaged nearly 58mpg (with AC on, plus one passenger and the dog). I thought this was terrific for a new 1.9 litre 130bhp engine with a lot of poke. Of course it’s never likely to equal an A2 TDI on consumption, but I do find it impressive – especially when I know that over the same journey my A2 petrol model would have only made around 38mpg at best.
Regards
John Disdale
