5 Important Tips about Diesel Engine Maintenance You Should Know

5 Important Tips about Diesel Engine Maintenance You Should Know

For many vehicles, maintenance looks basically the same. Virtually all vehicles will need new tires and brakes periodically, and key fluids must be replaced. Even with high quality wiper blades like Trico, it will be necessary to replace them periodically.

However, cars with diesel engines operate differently than gas-powered vehicles, so diesel engine maintenance is slightly different. If you own a diesel car or truck, you should understand the unique maintenance requirements of this type of engine to keep everything running smoothly. With proper maintenance, a diesel engine can last a very long time. Some important tips to keep in mind when it comes to maintaining a diesel engine include:

1. Keep the engine clean.

Diesel engines tend to last longer than gasoline ones, so there’s a greater need to keep them clean. Dirt and dust have a tendency to collect in the engine, and diesel engines generally undergo scheduled maintenance less frequently than gasoline ones, so grime has more chance to build up.

When dirt collects in the various components of the engine, your fuel efficiency falls and the lifespan of the engine can take a hit. Keeping the engine clean is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of snow, since road salt can speed the corrosion process. Any owner’s manual will have specific instructions for cleaning the engine safely, but typically you can use a sponge to clean the engine bay and a toothbrush to get into all the nooks and crannies. Auto stores also sell degreasers that can dissolve grimy buildup.

2. Take care of the radiator.

Your vehicle’s radiator moderates the engine’s temperature by running coolant through it. The coolant absorbs the heat and returns to the radiator, transferring the heat into the air. Newly cooled coolant then returns to the engine.

Diesel engines run hotter than gasoline ones and are at greater risk of overheating, which can cause warping of the engine’s components. If you have a diesel engine, you should make sure your radiator is in good working order to protect the integrity of the machinery. Check with your owner’s manual about recommended intervals for a radiator exchange service to clean the cooling system and top off the coolant. You should check sooner than recommended if the engine has a smell resembling maple syrup or you see steam coming from the hood.

3. Check the air filter.

On most vehicles, the air filter is located just under the hood inside of a cold air collector box shaped like a rectangle. The box is typically toward the front of the engine compartment. If the air filter is dirty, it prevents air from getting into the engine, which will ultimately require the vehicle to use more fuel to get adequate power.

If you notice your vehicle seems sluggish or slow to accelerate, that could be a sign to check the air filter. In diesel vehicles, these filters can get dirty faster than the recommended exchange interval, so it is worthwhile to check on it periodically. Replacing the filter sooner can decrease engine wear.

4. Replace the fuel filters.

Vehicles powered by gas usually have one fuel filter, but diesel engines typically have two. The primary fuel filter is between the gas tank and the engine; the second filter is between the transfer pump and fuel injectors. Diesel fuel is less refined than gasoline and thus can absorb more water from condensation in the fuel tank, which is why two fuel filters are typically necessary. Water particles in diesel fuel can decrease the power of the engine and even cause the vehicle to stall. In addition, the fuel injectors can explode if there is too much water in the fuel.

Most diesel engines need fuel filter replacements every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, and both of them should be replaced at the same time. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow them to keep the engine in good shape.

5. Change the oil regularly.

As with all engines, changing the oil is extremely important. Oil serves as the lubricant for the engine: it keeps all the parts from grinding together and wearing out quickly. Your vehicle’s manual will have clear directions about how often to change the oil—the intervals are usually longer for diesel engines than they are for gasoline engines.

However, consider how hard you push the engine. If the engine often has a heavy workload, idles for long periods of time, or undergoes frequent cold starts, it can be beneficial to change the oil sooner. It’s also important to use the right type of oil for your diesel engine and the season. Your owner’s manual should list the types of compatible fluids, but feel free to check with a mechanic about the best option whenever you get your oil changed.

About the Author

A native of the tri-state area, Patrick James Smith has cultivated a lifelong love for travel during trips for work and leisure alike. In planning for his travels, he has become well-versed in the art of travel hacking and utilizing credit card rewards points to book free vacations around the globe.