Diesel engines – the lifeblood of individuals, fleet managers, and small business owners across Ontario.
Regular preventive maintenance may feel like a grudge expense, but its returns are worth it:

• Ensure your diesel engine vehicle runs efficiently
• Reduce the likelihood of breakdowns
• Prolong the life of the engine
• Avoid major expenses when a small issue escalates to a large one.

NOTE: Our auto service shop in Cambridge Ontario is prepared to assist with auto suspension service and repair services, provided by our experienced, professional and certified auto mechanics.

Petrol Engine Vs Diesel Engine

It is not just what goes into their fuel tanks that makes a difference between petrol and diesel vehicles. It is also the different ways their engines operate:
A petrol engine uses a spark to ignite a mixture of petrol and air, which creates a small explosion that powers the engine. Typically found in cars and other light-duty vehicles, they tend to be smaller, lighter, and generally run at higher RPMs.
On the other hand, a diesel engine compresses air in the cylinder, which heats it up and causes fuel to be injected into the cylinder. The heat from the compressed air causes the fuel to ignite and powers the engine. Diesel engines are generally larger and heavier, run at lower RPMs, and found in trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles.

Replace The Fuel Filter At The Right Time

Located between the fuel tank and the fuel pump, diesel fuel filters are responsible for removing contaminants and debris such as dirt and rust from the diesel fuel before it reaches the engine. One of the most common diesel engine maintenance tips is to replace filters at the right time. But when is that?
While the frequency depends on several factors, such as the type of filter, the vehicle’s usage, and the quality of the fuel, fuel filters are generally replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
Because a clogged or dirty fuel filter can cause poor engine performance, bad fuel economy, and other engine issues, checking and replacing them should be part of your routine maintenance schedule.
Take the pressure off your fuel filters by using only high-quality diesel that is more refined and contains fewer impurities than lower-quality fuel. ULSD is also of a higher quality as it contains less sulfur which can corrode engine parts and produce harmful emissions.
Fuel stabilizer is a chemical additive that is used to help preserve the quality and stability of diesel fuel. The diesel treatment designed to prevent the fuel from breaking down and becoming contaminated over time by:

• Preventing oxidation and corrosion of fuel system components
• Keeping the fuel fresh by slowing down the aging process
• Inhibiting the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi that can form in diesel fuel, which can cause clogging and damage to the fuel system
• Maintaining the fuel’s octane rating and preventing the formation of sediment

Check The Coolant Regularly

Diesel engines have a higher compression ratio than gasoline engines. This means that the air in the cylinder is compressed to a greater degree before combustion, resulting in higher combustion temperatures. These high temperatures will damage the engine if not controlled properly.
The radiator is connected to the engine via hoses and helps to regulate the engine’s temperature by removing heat from the coolant that circulates through the engine block and cylinder head.
While the primary function of coolant in a diesel engine is to keep the engine cool, keeping your antifreeze/ coolant level topped up also:

• Lubricates the water pump and other coolant system components
• Protects against corrosion and rust
• Prevents coolant from freezing during cold weather
• Maintains the proper pH level, thus preventing damage to the engine and cooling system components
• Delays expensive radiator exchanges.

Take It To An Expert

Of course, the best way to keep your diesel engine vehicle in tip-top condition is to have an expert check it out.
Serving the communities of Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo, we at Special Interest Automobiles value communication. You receive a text message to confirm your appointment, and we follow up with you after the service is complete.
As your trusty auto service technicians since 1985, we are ready to inspect, service, and help maintain your vehicles with diesel engines. Get in touch with Special Interest AutomobilesCambridge today.