At our Tempe auto repair shop, we often get questions about diesel truck maintenance and repairs. That’s because diesel vehicles are popular these days, thanks in part to their towing abilities and engine durability. Since many people aren’t as familiar with what it takes to keep a diesel engine running smoothly, let’s take a look at three of the most common questions people ask about diesel truck maintenance.
How often does a diesel truck need an oil change?
While diesel engines are very different from their gas-powered counterparts, there is at least one thing they have in common … how frequently they need an oil change can and does depend on several factors.
Here are the top factors that influence the timing and frequency of oil changes for your diesel truck:
- Oil type used
- Driving conditions – idling time, distance traveled per week, etc.
- Type of use – no hauling vs. light loads vs. heaving hauling
- Climate conditions where the truck is operated most
While diesel trucks, vans, or cars can often go longer between oil changes than their gas relatives, it’s important to pay attention to how and when your diesel vehicle is used. Heavy hauling or frequent idling, for example, can make it necessary to schedule an oil change every 3,000 miles. In contrast, if you only use your truck for light driving and live in a moderate climate, you may be able to stretch oil changes to every 5,000 – 7,000 miles.
If you’re not sure what oil change schedule to follow, your best bet is to ask your trusted diesel mechanic.
What does routine diesel truck maintenance include?
In addition to regular oil changes, your diesel engine needs other services scheduled and completed at certain intervals in order to keep it running smoothly. Remember how preventative maintenance can keep a gas-powered vehicle at the top of its game? The same philosophy holds true for diesels as well.
Preventative diesel truck maintenance includes but is not limited to:
- Routine oil and engine filter changes
- Regular fuel filter replacement to prevent fuel contamination
- Periodic air filter changes to filter out debris
- Water separator draining
- Injection system refills
While it’s true that diesel engines are often less prone to major repairs than gas engines, that’s only the case if you follow a regular diesel truck maintenance schedule. Some services only need to be completed once a year or every 10,000 miles. Others may need to be done more frequently. Always refer to your owner’s manual or the advice of your trusted diesel mechanic for the guidelines that are specific to your vehicle.
Is there an auto repair shop in Tempe that offers diesel truck maintenance?
The answer to this question is … absolutely! If you’re looking for diesel truck maintenance or diesel truck repairs in Tempe, AZ, you don’t have to look any further than Good Works Auto Repair. Although we’re physically located in Tempe, our central location enables us to service vehicles from all over the Phoenix metro area including Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek, Casa Grande, and more.
Whether you have a personal vehicle with a diesel engine, such as a Dodge Cummins or GM DuraMax, or you have a whole fleet of diesel vehicles for commercial use, we have you covered. Our fleet services are backed with a 3-Year/36K Mile Warranty! Our diesel mechanics have the knowledge and training required to service diesel engines. In addition, they’re equipped with the latest technology for diesel repairs and maintenance.
So, the next time you need diesel truck maintenance or service on another diesel engine, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. We’re YOUR source for diesel repair and maintenance in sunny Tempe, AZ!
