Is "diesel 2" here in Ca bad for TDI 300?

[EdHsu]

I have heard that the newer diesel like the one here in California, Diesel 2, does not have enough something in comparison to the old diesel, which can be harmful to the 300TDI. Is that true?

[Buckon37s]

Diesel all over the US is SH*T! You should use an additive whenever possible

[artm]

What do you mean? I can't just fill up at any truck stop with confidence? What additives?

As long as we're talking fuel, is home fuel usable?

[JimC]

I'm sure US diesel is better than 3rd world diesel despite being a bit sulphurous - and thats being legislated out already. I'm not worrying about it.

[torero]

The question is:"why a diesel 2"
I'm not sure, but the new diesel engines with hight pressure injection ( about 20,000 psi for a td5 )need a top quality diesel.It must be free of water and dust.The fuel filters of these cars must be the most efficient as possible and need a water trap.Maybe that's why a diesel 2 appears.
If it's that, you can use it in a 300 tdi, it will be better.
What is the part of diesel engines in US ?In France it's 60 % due to low taxes.

[JimC]

Less than 2% of personal vehicles in the US are diesel, and only VW, Mercedes and the truck manufacturers offer diesels (though there is a new Jeep diesel coming out).

You have to remember that Americans as a rule are a wasteful lot who dont value economy and the tax laws encourage that wastefulness.

:(

[KeithD]

The Smart diesel is about to be launched in Canada - not sure about the US. We also get a few more sensible hatchbacks than down south - like the Yaris/Echo. At least the Mini has been a success, showing that small sensible cars can be sold if they are good enough.

[smenzel]

I'm not familiar with how diesel 2 differs from the previous version. I have heard that the sulfur (lubricating agent) is being reduced significantly. If you're running a diesel, it would be worth checking the sulfur content and, if necessary, add some lubricating agent.

Interestingly, I read that running 0.5% biodiesel will more than make up for the lack lubrication with the lower sulfur fuel.