Not only a newbie here, but new to Skoda and new to diesel (6 weeks)

So I read through the owners manual like a good boy and it recommends Bio Diesel. I did some research and last night filled the tank up. After 15 miles its coughing and spluttering and now it won't do over 20 miles an hour and there's no gut's. I've read that I have to change the fuel filter after using the first tank load as the Bio Diesel strips the "wax" from the tanks and lines and blocks the filter.

If I fit a new filter now will it sort the problem, or will I be fitting another one when that gets blocked? (say another 25 miles or so?)

Can anybody help?

By the way, cars an 03 reg Octavia 1.9TDI, 46k (last filter change at 40k) and the Bio Diesel in proprietry (off the forecourt)

Not sure that there should be any difference using Bio diesel other than filter changes etc. I don't think the book "recommends" bio diesel does it?? I seem to remember it just comments that you can use it if you wish - I'd use the "proper" stuff personally.

Take it back to the dealers - doubt it's the fuel.

Only comments I can see in the manual are that the biodiesel must comply with EN 14 214. If it doesn't you may damage the fuel system.

Sorry, the book does say use it if you wish.....the car was running perfect till literally ten minutes after putting the Bio Diesel in. I'm 100% sure the problems are due to this.

I'm going to buy a new filter and fit it, if the problem comes back after a few miles then I'll have to drain the tank.

Had a Vectra before and the fuel filter was fixed to the underside of the tank.....I take it the filter on an Octavia is on the left in the engine bay? (not got a manual yet)

Got the Bio from the only dealer I could find in Bolton (Trinity Street if you know Bolton) I've no reason to suspect it is anything else but the good stuff. as someone else was filling up with it at the same time. I think its B20 but I'll stand corrected.

Quote from this info sheet the Petrol Station gave me...."Bio Diesel does not need engine modification to use but some steps are essential to prevent problems. The diesel varnish that fills up in the vehicle tanks and fuel lines is broken down by the Bio Diesel and this can block fuel filters when you first begin using the new fuel. Therfore it's recommended that after the first fill of Bio Diesel customers change their fuel filters. Provided continual use of Bio Diesel the problem should not re-occur."

Sounds like you should be alright then.

Good luck!

Thanks, I'll get it all done tomorrow and post how it's gone on.

i've been considering this as a cheaper fuel and as i understand it, far better for emissions too. Also, as i work in a restaurant, wondered about the filtration and conversion process for using cooking oil. Seen it done on Top Gear, but it was very simplified for the tv show i think.

Anyway, looking forward to hearing what happens with the new filter. (its at the front left on my SDi if that helps answer your question dude.

Well it seems sorted.....or not so far off.

Rang a garage for a quote for dropping the Bio from the tank....

i'm not an expert, but i'd concur with your thoughts. Once you've ran that tank (of sludge) dry, put another new filter in, and i think you'll be sorted...

I think I'd bit the bullet here and have the tank drained to be honest, then a new filter and a fresh fill of the bio.

Even then you may need a new filter afterwards.

Just my thoughts

£95 is only 5 filters.... might just work out cheaper to do this?

I've now done 60 miles on the new filter....the cars's drivable but you can't put your foot down.

Checked the condition of the filter today it a bit "creamy"

To be honest, the filter's so easy to change (as long as you've got a bit of deisel handy to prime it) that I'm going to get another new one, bang some tools in the car and wait till this one gives up.

Only just over 3/4 a tank of fuel left (ha,ha,ha)....should be end of story in about another 400 miles!!!

I know these fuel filters are throw away, but has anybody tried flushing them out?

See if you can hook up with bryand - he's been running on bio for ages and may be able to share his experience(s) with you.

Definitely want to change the fuel filter a fair bit more often.

One thing I suggested based on something I saw at tdiclub's forums, is to look into a pre-OEM filter fuel filter. There are some that have great flow rates and are cheap, filtering out the worst stuff. As the filter is cheap it might be worth doing. I don't currently run bio due to logistical issues (I live in a flat )

However IF a pre-filter works, a quick-release system might be worth it to allow a quick swap, you could then drop in a spare

I like that idea.... basically is it a can that replaces your original filter and you just replace the core filter?

If so I want one

As for carrying on using BIO....?

At the end of the day I'm buying it not making it. There's only one place I know of in Bolton that sells it and it's 84.9 per litre.

When I filled up, normal Diesel was 91.9....it's now gone down to 87.9.

I don't think the Bio has gone down (It's an independent Garage)

I would have to do of soul searching to carry on using BIO for a saving of £1.50 per full tank.

No wonder Bio's not taking off.... In my opinion if it was 20p per litre cheaper then people would start using it big style.

Anyway that's another topic!