Diesel engines offer a slew of advantages that gas engines can’t touch. They’re highly efficient, get more mileage, and provide plenty of power. They have their disadvantages too, of course. But by and large, when you look after your diesel engine, you’ll get many years of use out of it. Here’s how to maintain and extend the lifespan of diesel engines.
Learn About Your Diesel Engine
The first and most obvious thing any diesel engine owner can do is educate themselves on how it all works. Make the owner’s manual part of your recreational reading. Knowing the how and why of your engine will give you a better appreciation of its strengths and how to troubleshoot problems. The manual will also tip you off on how often to perform maintenance and best practices for operating the vehicle. As the saying goes, the more you know, the better you’ll be. In other words, the more you learn, the longer your diesel engine will last.
Have a Maintenance Schedule
Bring your diesel vehicle in for periodic checkups and maintenance. That means changing the oil and oil filter every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. It’s even possible to restart diesel engines that have been idle for years. But without regular lubrication, any engine will break down for good. You should also look after air and fuel filters since they keep foreign particles from entering the engine, degrading performance, and damaging the engine.
Don’t Skimp on Fuel
It can sometimes be difficult to find a gas station that offers diesel fuel. But when you find one, you should only pump premium fuel into your vehicle. Yes, it’ll cost slightly more than the standard stuff. However, cheaper-grade diesel fuel can contain water and other contaminants. These can, in turn, clog up the engine, slowly ruining it and cutting its life short. You can further look after your fuel by putting in additives that keep it clean, absorb water, and prevent the fuel from gelling up when the temperatures drop.
Keep It Cool
Diesel engines run hotter than gasoline ones. As a diesel engine heats up, the cooling system works hard to turn down the heat and prevent engine damage. Overheating has killed too many engines, so monitor your coolant levels and watch and listen for leaks in the radiator. Excessive heat can warp and cause engine parts to crack and otherwise fail. You should talk to your mechanic about the efficacy of adding a cleaner to your coolant about every 40,000 miles to keep the fluid clean and flowing freely.
Drive Smart
If you’re still wondering how to maintain and extend the lifespan of diesel engines, look at yourself. Often, the biggest danger to any vehicle is a loose nut behind the steering wheel. Operate your diesel-powered vehicle with restraint and wisdom. Avoid short trips, and don’t drive aggressively. You want to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the engine. Pay attention to what the dashboard warning lights are telling you and move quickly to repair or prevent issues. Your engine will thank you with a long and effective life!
