Part Delay Hits Diesel Sales

Thinking of buying a new diesel? You might be in for a shock! An international parts crisis means that there's a massive wait on some models. The problem involves the firm making emissions-busting particulate filters that are fitted to many modern oil-burners.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Ross Pinnock

06th April 2005

We revealed how UK diesel sales constantly hit new record levels in Issue 814 - our special Diesel Issue. But with the current delays, that success could be running on empty. The components simply can't be made fast enough, and even the UK's best-selling car hasn't escaped.

Delays with the Ford Focus 2.0-litre TDCi mean that any existing orders will not be met until July at the earliest, and new customers will have to wait until October. A blue oval spokesman said: "We've increased production of the 1.6 and 1.8-litre TDCi models, so buyers can switch over if they want." The smaller-capacity units don't require the filter, so aren't affected by the shortage.

Other manufacturers are also facing backlogs. A Vauxhall spokesman told Auto Express: "It has affected delivery times for the Vectra 1.9-litre CDTI Estate, but only by a few months."

In addition, there are problems at PSA - the parent firm of Peugeot and Citroen - although a spokesman said he was unable to identify delays to specific cars. The French firm recently fitted its one-millionth particulate filter. Its patented design is used on nine models, including the Citroen C4 and Peugeot 206.