Should I Buy a Used Diesel Car?
Diesel is something that policy makers have been back and forth about for years. Originally, incentives were offered to encourage car buyers to choose diesel vehicles, due to them producing less CO2 emissions than petrol. Then, this flipped, and higher taxes were imposed for these cars in light of violations of the Clean Air Act.
Recently, data has been published by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) which indicates that new diesels are cleaner than petrol models, which has caused experts to, once again, urge consumers to opt for this fuel type. Confused? You’re not the only one! To simplify the matter, we have taken the opportunity to explain the situation in this article.
Why Was Diesel Condemned?
The reason why diesel cars received such bad press is due to the revelation that certain models were producing harmful substances that put them in violation of official policy. As diesels vehicles burn fuel, they produce a high level of soot particles and nitrogen oxide (NOx) that, when released into the atmosphere and breathed in by us, can aggravate health problems.
Are Diesel Cars Bad?
As a result of the diesel scandal, people have been deterred from these vehicles, but the truth is, it is only a portion of diesel cars without particulate filters that were causing problems. Diesel particulate filters prevent damaging soot from being released into the air, and as of 2009, it is compulsory for new diesels to be fitted with these. Additionally, strict limits have been imposed on NOx levels.
Should I Buy a Diesel Car?
The data from the ACEA found that the majority of newer diesel vehicles were not only significantly cleaner than older models but were achieving emissions targets that are not due to be enforced until 2020. So, if you are concerned about the impact of diesel on public health, you simply need to be selective about the used diesel car you choose, rather than ditching diesel altogether.
We need to stop classing all diesels as dangerous, separating the few problematic older models from the latest vehicles, many of which are far cleaner than petrol options.
View our latest selection of used diesel cars in Ayr, where our experts can advise you on which fuel type will best suit your needs!