The DAF XF in the UK Market

The DAF XF has been a fixture of UK motorways since the 105 series launched in 2006. Owned by PACCAR (the same group as Kenworth and Peterbilt), DAF combines Dutch engineering with UK-specific support through an excellent dealer network. The XF is popular with both hauliers and owner-operators.

XF Generations

XF105 (2006 to 2017)

Available with PACCAR MX and Cummins engines. The XF105 set a new standard in driver comfort when launched - the SuperSpace cab is genuinely spacious. Euro 5 models are the most commonly available used examples.

XF (New Generation, 2017 Onwards)

Significant redesign with improved aerodynamics and the new MX-11 and MX-13 engine options. Euro 6 compliance throughout. Winner of the International Truck of the Year award.

Used Prices

  • XF105 Euro 5 (2010 to 2014, 500hp, SuperSpace): £18,000 to £38,000
  • XF105 Euro 6 (2014 to 2017): £28,000 to £55,000
  • XF New Gen Euro 6 (2017 to 2019): £40,000 to £75,000
  • XF New Gen (2020 to 2022): £60,000 to £95,000

The Driver's View

Cab Comfort

The XF SuperSpace cab is one of the best in class for driver comfort. The bed length is genuine (about 1,970mm - most adult drivers can sleep fully extended). The driver's seat is among the most adjustable in the market. Air suspension on both driver seat and cab gives a comfortable ride even on poor roads.

Engines

The PACCAR MX-13 (12.9 litre) in 440PS and 510PS outputs is the most common engine. It's generally very reliable with correct maintenance. The MX-11 (10.8 litre) in the new generation is more economical but slightly less popular for long-haul heavy work.

Transmission

The TraXon automated manual gearbox (ZF-based) on new generation trucks is excellent - smooth, fuel-efficient, and dependable. Older XF105 models with the AS-Tronic (also ZF-based) are also reliable but feel dated compared to TraXon.

Common Issues and What to Check

AdBlue System (Euro 6)

Euro 6 trucks use AdBlue SCR systems. Check the AdBlue pump, injector, and NOx sensors - these are common fault items. A full AdBlue system failure can put the truck into limp mode. Repair costs: £400 to £1,500 depending on the component.

EGR System

EGR valve and cooler issues are known on the MX engine series. Carbon buildup is the typical issue. Check for any recent EGR work in the service history.

Service History

DAF trucks should be serviced every 100,000km (approximately). A full dealer service history on a 500,000km truck is much more valuable than the same mileage without records. Ask specifically for any major work: turbo replacement, EGR work, injector replacement.

Frame and Cab

Inspect the chassis frame for cracks at cross-member junctions. Check the cab tilt mechanism works smoothly. Check the fifth wheel plate condition and coupling height adjustment if it's a tractor unit.

Running Costs

Fuel consumption on a well-maintained XF on motorway work: 8 to 10mpg with a laden trailer. AdBlue consumption: approximately 5% of diesel consumption. Service costs at a DAF dealer: £600 to £1,200 per major service depending on work required.

Verdict

The DAF XF is a solid, well-supported long-haul truck that holds its value reasonably well. Buy one with a full dealer service history and no major AdBlue or EGR fault history and it should give reliable service. Avoid trucks with unexplained mileage gaps or signs of previous accident damage.

What should you check before buying?

Before you travel to see a used daf xf — truck driver's honest review, build a short checklist and compare the advert against real evidence. Photos and seller claims are useful, but paperwork, condition and price comparisons matter more.

  • inspection sheets, plating records and evidence of regular servicing
  • tyre condition, brake wear, AdBlue faults and dashboard warning lights
  • payload needs, operator licence requirements and likely downtime costs
  • finance status, tachograph history and whether VAT is included in the price

How much should you budget after purchase?

Budget for inspections, tyres, insurance, servicing, fuel, AdBlue and time off the road. A truck with tidy paperwork is usually safer than the cheapest example online. If the seller cannot answer basic questions or the documents do not match the vehicle, it is usually better to walk away and compare another example.

How do you judge fair value?

For commercial vehicles, downtime can cost more than a slightly higher purchase price. Compare similar age, mileage, payload and service-history examples before deciding what looks cheap. For a used daf xf — truck driver's honest review, look at the full ownership cost rather than only the asking price. A strong example should have evidence that supports the advert: matching documents, sensible mileage, clear condition photos and answers that remain consistent when you ask follow-up questions.

If two examples look similar, choose the one with better history and fewer unknowns. A bargain with missing records, urgent repairs or vague ownership can quickly become more expensive than a tidier vehicle from a straightforward seller.

What are the main red flags?

  • missing inspection or service paperwork
  • fresh paint over rusty chassis areas or obvious leak marks
  • seller pressure to leave a deposit before a proper viewing
  • unclear VAT, finance or ownership position

None of these automatically proves a vehicle is bad, but each one should slow the deal down. Ask for evidence, compare another listing and avoid paying a holding deposit until the basics have been checked.

Questions to ask the seller

When you enquire about a used daf xf — truck driver's honest review, ask the same questions in writing before you travel. How long has the seller owned it? Why is it being sold? What recent work has been done? Are there faults, warning lights, finance agreements or missing documents? Will it be cold when you arrive for a start-up check?

Clear answers save wasted journeys. If the seller avoids simple questions, changes the story or pushes for quick payment, keep looking.

Frequently asked questions

Is a used daf xf — truck driver's honest review expensive to run?

Running cost depends on mileage, tyres, inspections, AdBlue use, insurance and downtime. A cheap purchase price can be poor value if maintenance records are weak.

What paperwork matters most on a used truck?

Look for service history, inspection sheets, MOT/plating records, tachograph evidence, finance status and any proof of major repairs.

Should I buy from a truck dealer or auction?

Dealers usually give more support and clearer preparation. Auctions can be cheaper, but inspection time is limited and faults may become your problem immediately after purchase.

Related Mobeo guides

If you are comparing more than one used vehicle, these guides are also worth reading before you arrange a viewing.