2012 DAF LF 45 220 6.7 Cummins from Netherlands

Summary:

Efficient, reliable and comfortable for everyday work

Faults:

The seat bases suffer considerable wear, especially if the air discharge system is not used before exiting the vehicle.

Leaks from rear crank seals.

Problems where the diesel particulate filter (DPF) regenerates too frequently and for too long, despite having been changed multiple times. When this happens, ensure the software is up to date; if this doesn't solve the problem, the EGR valve needs to be replaced.

Red engine warning lights that turn off on their own if the vehicle remains parked for 60 to 90 minutes, leaving no trace on the diagnostic system. The cause is water entering on the passenger side, under the windshield.

The clutch wore out and I replaced it at 190,000 km. This is common in light trucks made for urban use.

General Comments:

The LF is a renewal of the old and well-known 45 and 55 light trucks, although it emerged in the mid-2000s, today many are seen in cities and on roads, especially in Europe.

While the truck is modern, it's quite simple, with few differences compared to those from the 90s; the only additions are air conditioning and ABS brakes. Access to the cab is one of its most carefully considered aspects. The door, capable of opening to a 90ยบ angle, is more than sufficient to allow comfortable and safe entry into the cabin.

Once in the driver's seat, you'll notice this truck is closer to what we understand as a long-haul vehicle than a pure distribution truck. The air-suspension seat, with its adjustable features, allows you to find a comfortable driving position.

This LF has also inherited a new steering wheel from the higher-end models, featuring a more striking design and, more importantly, integrated systems. Having the controls for features like cruise control, engine braking, and speed limiter integrated into the steering wheel reduces the risk of accidents, as the driver's attention to activate these controls is minimal, and they can do so without taking their eyes off the road.

The automatic systems in this vehicle do not allow the simultaneous use of engine braking and cruise control. In other words, if you engage the automatic accelerator while engine braking is active, the engine brake will disengage.

For timekeeping and related functions, the LF is equipped with the VIC (Vehicle Intelligence Center), which controls the electronic functions.

The instrument panel also incorporates the features already seen in the CF and XF models, such as new gauges with aluminum finishes and the LCD screen that dominates the dashboard.

The engine is a Cummins 6.7 direct injection, whose fuel system is based on the well-known electronically controlled Common Rail technology; very efficient in terms of city fuel consumption, almost matching that of a medium-to-large van.

This LF has sufficient power for the work it will perform, good response in challenging situations, and engine braking that delivers more than acceptable power.

As for on-road driving, fuel consumption levels depend heavily on road conditions, particularly gradients and load. Maintaining constant speeds on highways provides better efficiency. Maneuverability in tight spaces is good, but requires attention. Cabin comfort could be improved, especially on long journeys.

The suspension tuning provides a balanced ride, although a slight noise can be noticed in the cabin at higher speeds.

This light-duty truck is designed for metropolitan and regional operations. It offers smooth handling, especially in tight urban conditions, and its engine provides ample power for moderate loads.

Overall, a reliable truck for everyday logistics use. It's not too heavy, and its agility is almost on par with a large van; I can confirm this having previously driven a Sprinter and a Daily.

It's not 100% comfortable, but it drives smoothly and is easy to maneuver, as well as being relatively economical for the tasks it was designed for.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd April, 2026