hi folks,will be getting a 2016 toyota rav4 2 lt diesel soon,just a question about the dpf filter,if the dashboard light comes on,is that a warning to clean it (take it for a long drive)or is it shagged and will need replacing,new to diesels,thanks
It is impossible to say the DPF is gone or just need a regeneration. Do not buy the car without knowing exactly the problem. Just it can be expensive mistake
a lot of DPF problems seem to relate to lack of driving at sufficient speed for the system to self clean. A longish drive at sufficient revs might clear it or you could bring it to a garage who can hook it up to a computer and do what they call a forced regeneration. This worked for my last car (2016 CRV) but I also had to get a new sensor fitted as the fault came back. Cost about €300 all in but a new dpf is a lot more. I suggest you bring it to a good garage and get them to check it out but more important do you really need a diesel -plenty o threads on here with good info.
If your worried about the DPF giving trouble from your driving style or having to go out of your way to drive it properly then a diesel is probably not the best choice of car for you.