If you want to pass the diesel NCT, drive like hell in the wrong gear

OUR 01 Peugeot 307 HDI, with low mileage, failed the NCT last week. The emission levels were through the roof, at a value of 7.6, which is very high according to our Peugeot dealer.

We had the car tested privately a few days later and it gave an 0.50, 0.45 and 0.35 reading. It was then returned to the test centre where it passed with a 0.25 level.

I would like to give some advice to all Peugeot HDI engine car owners who are about to do the NCT test. Apparently the HDI engine does not like slow driving. We were advised by the NCT centre not to drive at 30kph in fifth gear (if that’s possible) as the soot accumulates but does not clear the exhaust. Apparently the same applies to petrol cars. The NCT people (who were, in fact, doing their best) made the following amazing recommendations: