Every driver should know how to check their oil, fill up the windshield washer fluid, or change a tire. But as a diesel owner, there are some other things you should know in order to keep your vehicle in great shape.
Today, we’re going to walk you through some of the best diesel maintenance tips you should be aware of so you can protect your investment and make your diesel-powered vehicle go farther and last longer.
6 Diesel Maintenance Tips Every Diesel Owner Should Know
Whether you’re a new diesel owner, you’re thinking about purchasing a diesel vehicle in the near future, or you’ve been driving diesel vehicles for years, these diesel maintenance tips can help you get the most out of your vehicle.
1. Pay attention to manufacturer recommended maintenance.
Owners of gas-powered vehicles are typically familiar with the fact that car manufacturers recommend certain maintenance items be completed at various time or mileage intervals. Diesel-powered vehicles are no different.
Diesel trucks and SUVs also come with recommendations from the manufacturer in regard to preventative maintenance services such as oil changes. Follow the recommended service schedule closely to protect your investment while potentially reducing overall maintenance costs.
2. Have your fuel filter changed at regular intervals.
As a diesel owner, you should be prepared to have the fuel filter in your diesel engine changed out more frequently than you may have done with your gas-powered vehicles. That’s because diesel fuel filters can easily become clogged.
Rather than waiting for a clog to occur, prevention is the best medicine and can keep you from experiencing a vehicle breakdown or engine damage. Schedule regular fuel filter changes at your local diesel repair shop and immediately change the filter if a warning pops up on your dashboard.
3. Drive your diesel vehicle at least once a month.
Many diesel owners drive their vehicles on a daily basis or at least several times a week. Others, however, own a diesel truck simply for its hauling capacity and because of this, may only use it when transporting a big load is necessary.
A good rule of thumb to follow is to drive your diesel vehicle at least once a month. And, drive it long and far enough so that it truly has a chance to warm up. This can help keep the fuel filter and other engine components in good shape.
4. Check oil levels between oil changes.
If you’re accustomed to driving a gas-powered vehicle, you may not even think about checking your oil between oil changes unless you’re preparing for a road trip. Since oil levels tend to drop faster in diesel engines, however, it’s a good idea to check levels regularly.
Park your vehicle in a flat area and let the engine cool for at least half an hour. Then, you can safely and accurately check the oil. If additional oil is needed, be sure to use the right type of oil and top off the oil reservoir according to manufacturer instructions.
5. Only use diesel fuel in your diesel engine.
As a diesel owner, you already know that your vehicle takes diesel fuel and not gasoline. Simply knowing that fact doesn’t prevent people from accidentally filling up their diesel truck with gas, however.
Whether you’re in a hurry and not paying attention to the pump, or you’re simply following an old habit of pumping gas, it’s not difficult to put the wrong type of fuel in your vehicle. It’s important to realize, however, that putting gas in a diesel engine can cause significant damage to the fuel pump, diesel injectors, and more. Always pay close attention to which pump you’re using at the gas station!
6. Schedule diesel repairs and maintenance with a qualified diesel mechanic.
While many auto repair shops service a wide variety of vehicles, not every shop is equipped to repair or maintain diesel-powered ones. If you want to get the most out of your vehicle, only schedule repairs and maintenance with an expert diesel technician. He or she will have the right tools and expertise to diagnose and fix common diesel problems as well as more complex ones.
Diesel Repair and Maintenance in Tempe, AZ
At Good Works Auto Repair, we believe in hiring the best automotive technicians, and we equip them with the latest tools and equipment. By doing this, we help ensure that our customer’s vehicles are repaired and maintained accurately and efficiently. In addition to technicians that work solely on gas-powered vehicles, we have diesel mechanics on staff that you can trust with all of your diesel repair and maintenance needs.
Whether you’re a diesel owner in Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Phoenix, Chandler, or any of the surrounding areas, our Tempe auto repair shop has you covered! Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today.
