Long-term experience with Biodiesel

I have been driving my (2) VW Jetta turbodiesels using "biodiesel" made from rapeseed oil (canola) since December 1993. The first vehicle was driven from 12/93 till 06/95 (113,00 km to 147,00 km). The current vehicle (identical model) has been operated from 06/95 to the present (63,000 km to 251,000 km). The combined total of both vehicles now exceeds 222,000 km (140,000 miles). The total  distance, with exception of some trips to Poland, was made exclusively on Biodiesel. No technical problems have occurred so far. Only the retrun hoses on both cars were replaced, all else is in original condition. 

Fuel consumption is 5.8 liters per 100 km. I change the lubrication oil every 15,000 km which is twice the interval recommended by VW, but I drive about 18,000 km per year moderately and without heavy engine loading, which, according to VW, is allowable. The engine runs noticeably smoother than with normal diesel fuel, possibly due to a higher cetane value in the Biodiesel. 

In December of 1993, there were no Biodiesel filling stations in Rheda Wiedenbrueck, now there are three. At that time I transported Biodiesel from Lippstadt and Muenster in 20 liter cans. Currently, there are numerous diesels underway in Rheda Wiedenbrueck fueled with Biodiesel, of which include municipal and railway maintenance vehicles. In conclusion, from a purely technical viewpoint, after long experience using Biodiesel I can find no objection to using it. Photos to be added later. 

Disclaimer: The foregoing are my personal experiences with my private passenger vehicle, and I cannot assume any liabilities nor do I make warranties for same.

The 1991  VW Jetta TD
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Johannes Brinkrolf, Rheda, Germany