7 Top Maintenance Tips for Diesel Vehicles

Diesel vehicles are lauded for their power, durability, and efficiency. However, routine maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly and performing its best. Whether you use your diesel truck, car, or other vehicle for short trips or long hauls, these tips keep it in great shape and extend its lifespan. Here are seven top maintenance tips for diesel vehicles.

Stick to a Regular Maintenance Schedule

Most of the effort spent on keeping your diesel vehicle running transpires in periodic maintenance. Diesel engines often have longer lifespans than gas engines do, but maintenance is key. Consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil and oil filter replacements and inspections. Clean oil reduces wear on engine components and keeps everything running smoothly. Dirty oil can result in major engine damage. Likewise, an updated oil filter continues to strain out contaminants that clog the engine.

Monitor Fuel and Air Filters

Both fuel and air filters play big roles in engine performance. The fuel filter keeps contaminants like dirt and water out of the fuel injector system, while the air filter prevents debris from entering the engine. Regularly replacing filters improves fuel efficiency, boosts power, and protects the engine. Consider upgrading to high-performance air filters for even better filtration and airflow.

Check Your Glow Plugs

Unlike spark plugs in gasoline engines, glow plugs permit diesel engines to start up more easily when the temperature drops. Check glow plugs for damage regularly and replace them well before their expected end of lifespan (before 100,000 miles). Faulty glow plugs cause hard starts and decrease diesel engine performance.

Watch Those Coolant Levels

Is your diesel engine staying cool? If not, your coolant might be low. If you notice higher temperatures during long hauls or heavy towing, measure your coolant levels. Low levels or poor-quality coolants lead to overheating and eventual engine damage and failure. Flush the radiator each year and refill it with the appropriate level of coolant.

Upgrade Key Components

Enhancing performance doesn’t have to be expensive. Make simple upgrades to improve your diesel’s longevity and efficiency. High-flow injectors and upgraded fuel pumps, for example, vastly improve combustion, resulting in more miles per gallon and greater power and performance. You’d be surprised at how many budget-friendly upgrades are available to optimize engine performance.

Warm Up and Cool Down

Take time to bring your engine up of down to the perfect temperature for better performance. Warming up the engine before driving and letting it cool down after extended use is smart. Keeping things appropriately warm or cool helps maintain the turbocharger and other critical components. Skipping this step can lead to stress on the engine.

Monitor Exhaust and Emissions Systems

Diesel engines produce higher emissions than gas-powered counterparts, so pay close attention to your exhaust and emissions system. A clogged diesel particulate filter (DPF) or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve influences performance and leads to expensive repairs. Clean and replace these components for better performance and lower emissions.

Follow those top maintenance tips for diesel vehicles and enjoy the ride! Taking care of your diesel vehicle offers multiple benefits. Well-maintained diesel engines use far less fuel, produce more power, and retain higher resale values.