Watch for B30 Diesel when motorhoming in France
British motorhomers planning holidays in Europe this summer are urged to take extra care when filling up with diesel.
Biodiesel is produced from oilseed rape, sunflower oil, used frying oils and palm oil. Unless a vehicle has been specifically designed to use it, it can damage fuel injection.
In the UK all diesel contains up to 7% biodiesel. In France the proportion is similar, However, a B30 diesel blend (containing 30% biodiesel) is also available in France (and other parts of Europe), and it is this that has caught out some British holidaymakers. B30 is only suitable for vehicles specifically designed to use it.
Journalist Mike Cazalet believes the problem is that various seals in the fuel system are not suitable for bio fuel. He advised: “The seals may not fail immediately, which is why people who have filled up with the wrong fuel often think they’ve got away with it, but the seals probably will, expensively, fail.”
Most manufacturers advise customers to use only conventional diesel fuel, and Volkswagen says the use of B30 may invalidate the engine and exhaust system warranty.
A few filling stations in the UK also sell the B30 blend – Morrisons supermarkets has stocked this at its forecourts.
To avoid problems, we advise:
- Stick to conventional diesel fuel
- Avoid B30 – look out for the B30 label and possibly an orange pump
- Use B30 only if you have established with your manufacturer that your vehicle is able to run on this mix
Recent Updates
Campervan festivals: all you need to know
Get the lowdown on going to a festival with your campervan. We've got everything you need to know, from choosing the right festival to deciding what ...
Off-grid campervans: what you need to know
Ditching electric hook-up and wild camping in your campervan is a great, low-cost way to enjoy the outdoors ...
Where and how to sell my motorhome: the ultimate guide
Whatever your reason for selling, there are a number of steps to take to try to get the best price for your ...
Gas tanks or refillable cylinders: our guide to motorhome gas
From cooking dinner to the central heating, gas is an essential feature of motorhoming – here, we explore ...
Engine management lights: all you need to know
What is the engine management light? What does it mean, and what do I have to do? ...
Motorhome air suspension: all you need to know
Motorhomes are heavy and the additional weight of equipment and height of the bodywork can increase the loads ...
Motorhome WiFi: how to get better motorhome internet
Staying connected on the move is more and more essential, so relying on campsite WiFi isn't an option – here ...
A class of their own - our guide to A-class motorhomes
Thinking of trading up to an A-class, or even going straight to the top of the motorhome tree? We guide you ...
Explore overseas on a motorhome dream tour
Enjoy exotic travel in a campervan or motorhome by hiring, swapping with someone else or exporting your ...
Motorhome water systems: everything you need to know
On-board water is an important part of every motorhome – here’s everything you need to know ...
Other Articles
Campervanning in Europe: what you need to know
Whether you're planning a leisurely drive through the French countryside, navigating bustling city streets in Italy or winding your way around ...
Campervan security: all you need to know
With thefts on the increase, it’s important to know how to keep your campervan secure and prevent campervan ...
Campervan furniture: everything you need to know
Our campervan experts guide you through all the essentials for your campervan, including tables, chairs, ...
Campervan finance: how to fund your purchase
Here we look at the different types of campervan finance available, to help you decide what’s the best option ...
Britain’s best used motorhomes
Want a great motorhome without paying the premium for a new one? Here's a guide to the best you can get in ...
Which motorhome? Choosing the perfect motorhome for you
Choosing a motorhome or campervan is one of the biggest buying decisions you’ll ever make, so it's important ...
Campervan washroom essentials: stay fresh on the road
Our guide will take you through the campervan washroom essentials you'll need so you're well-prepared for ...
Dogs in campervans: all you need to know
Follow our advice and your dog will enjoy campervanning as much as you do ...
Electric campervans: all you need to know
Our guide will take you through everything you need to know about electric campervans and what the future ...
Motorhome electrics: a complete guide to your motorhome electrical set-up
Motorhome electrics can dramatically enhance the convenience and comfort of your vehicle – but they can be ...